Ban junk food ads say 100 UK groups

Main Category: Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness
Article Date: 03 Mar 2004 - 0:00 PDT

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The campaign to ban junk food advertising is growing in the UK. Over 100 top health and consumer groups signed up to a campaign.

According to Sustain, better food and farming group, 106 organisations have signed its campaign for a new law.

Included are the British Dental Association, the British Heart Foundation and consumer councils.

According to the organisations, the UK has such a rising rate of obesity that the ban is needed to tackle it.

OBESITY IN THE UK

-- 25% of men are obese

-- 20% of women are obese

-- 40% will be obese within one generation (experts say)

-- 8.5% of 6 year olds are obese

-- 15% of 15 year olds are obese

Many people reckon it is partly due to the rise in the consumption and availability of junk food.

Some analysts believe the UK government will urge the food industry to sign up to a voluntary code. This would include such measures as not targeting children in their advertising.

A spokesperson for Sustain said that the food industry is incapable of acting in a socially responsible way.

Charlie Powell, project officer at Sustain said 'Huge profits are at stake, so we don't believe that they will voluntarily stop promoting junk foods to kids. 'For the sake of children's health, statutory controls are urgently required.'

According to the Food and Drink Federation a ban is not necessary. Martin Paterson, its deputy director general said 'Food and drink manufacturers take a very responsible view of advertising, particularly of products aimed at children,' said Martin Paterson, its deputy director general. Strict codes of practice already exist, and these state that ads should not encourage children to eat or drink frequently throughout the day, condone excessive consumption, or suggest that confectionery or snacks should replace balanced meals. Obesity is a serious problem and the UK food industry wants to play its part in finding realistic solutions. There are no quick fixes. Any action needs to be based on sound science, and requires government and all stakeholders to work together with a commitment to achieving real results over the long term.'

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