UK to Implement Comprehensive Junk Food Ad Ban by 2025

New rules will restrict junk food advertising on TV before 9pm and completely online to combat childhood obesity.

The ban, set to begin on October 1, 2025, aims to reduce childhood obesity by limiting exposure to ads for high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt foods.
Health Minister Andrew Gwynne emphasized that these measures will protect children from advertising that influences unhealthy dietary preferences.
The restrictions will apply to a wide range of food categories, including soft drinks, savory snacks, breakfast cereals, chocolates, ice cream, and ready meals.
The policy, initially proposed by the Conservative government, has been carried forward by the current Labour administration as part of a broader public health initiative.
Industry groups have expressed concerns about the impact on businesses, while health campaigners and public figures like Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall have praised the move.