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5mo ago

UK to Ban Daytime Ads for Junk Food to Combat Childhood Obesity

The restrictions, effective October 2025, target foods high in fat, sugar, and salt, aiming to reduce children’s calorie intake and improve health outcomes.

Foods categorised as less healthy by the government include fast food, soft drinks, ready meals, pastries, cereal bars, and sweetened yoghurts. (Image used for representational purposes only)
A plate of burger and chips in front of a TV screen

Overview

  • The UK government will prohibit TV ads for 'less healthy' foods before 9pm and paid online ads for these products starting October 2025.
  • The ban applies to a wide range of items, including sugary cereals, pastries, sweetened yoghurts, and fast food products like burgers and nuggets.
  • Healthier alternatives, such as natural porridge oats and unsweetened yoghurt, are exempt from the restrictions.
  • The government estimates the measures will prevent 20,000 cases of childhood obesity annually and remove 7.2 billion calories from children’s diets each year.
  • Critics highlight potential loopholes allowing brands to advertise generically without featuring restricted products and question the ban’s long-term effectiveness.