Fighting Childhood Obesity: UK Introduces Ban on Junk Food Advertising | WPN World People News

To curb the increasingly severe problem of childhood obesity, the UK government has described this policy as a “world-leading health initiative” and announced that it will implement the strictest food advertising restrictions in the world starting January 5. The new measures aim to significantly reduce young people’s exposure to advertisements for foods high in fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS), creating a healthier food environment for children and seeking to correct dietary habits at their source.

Under the new rules, UK television channels will face advertising time restrictions, with a complete ban on unhealthy food advertisements before 9:00 p.m., during peak viewing hours. On digital platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, the policy goes even further, introducing a “24-hour ban” on all paid junk food advertising. As early as the end of 2024, the UK had already imposed higher sugar taxes on sugary drinks, milkshakes, and sweetened yogurts, gradually establishing a stringent nutrition management system.

In addition, local governments are authorized to restrict fast-food outlets from opening or operating near schools. Government officials note that nearly one-third of school-age children in the UK are currently overweight, a situation that not only harms public health but also places a heavy financial burden on the healthcare system.

Although the food and advertising industries have expressed concerns about potential economic impacts, the medical community and public interest groups have widely praised the policy. They argue that children are highly susceptible to the influence of attractive advertising, which can trigger impulsive consumption, and view the legislation as a major milestone in protecting the health of future generations. The UK’s move has attracted international attention, and its effectiveness is expected to serve as an important reference for other countries when shaping health policies.