Health Foundation response to the junk food advertising ban

Junk food ad ban welcome, but loopholes threaten childhood obesity fight

Responding to the junk food advertising ban coming into force today, Samantha Field, Senior Fellow (Prevention) at the Health Foundation, said:

‘We welcome today's ban on junk food advertising as a necessary step to protect children's health. Unhealthy food marketing is a major driver of obesity. Government estimates suggest the new rules could cut 7.2 billion calories annually and prevent 20,000 cases of childhood obesity.

‘But with childhood obesity at highest-ever levels, and nearly twice as widespread in deprived areas, urgent, more decisive action is needed. Large loopholes on sports sponsorship, outdoor and online advertising means that children will still be reached by other channels. We have already seen industry spend shifting outdoors – McDonald's alone has increased outdoor advertising by 71% since 2021.

‘Our work shows the public support bold public health polices and people want to see decisive action that protect children’s health and wellbeing.

'If the government is serious about reducing childhood obesity, it must close these gaps and retain focus on the suite of actions needed to keep children healthy. These include empowering local authorities to build healthier food environments, expanding free school meals, strengthening Healthy Start, and improving the wider food environment.'

Media contact

Jessica Clinkett
jessica.clinkett@health.org.uk
020 7664 4647