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UK Implements Junk‑Food Ad Ban Online and Before 9 p.m. on TV

Officials say the restrictions use a nutrient‑profiling test to steer children toward healthier choices.

Overview

  • The rules prohibit paid online advertising for high‑fat, salt and sugar products at all times and bar television spots before 21:00.
  • Coverage is defined by an official nutrient‑profiling system that captures items such as confectionery, ice cream, pizza, energy drinks and flavored yoghurts.
  • The Advertising Standards Authority is tasked with enforcement, following voluntary limits many advertisers adopted from October that reshaped Christmas campaigns.
  • Ministers project up to 70 billion fewer calories in children’s diets each year, around 20,000 fewer obesity cases and savings of roughly £2 billion for the NHS.
  • The measures form part of a wider obesity strategy that expands the sugar levy and curbs multibuy promotions, as debates continue over effectiveness and food affordability.