BMA Response To The OFCOM Ruling Banning Junk Food Advertising During Programmes Targeted At Under-16s

November 20, 2006 – 10:37 pm | posted in Pediatrics

The BMA is disappointed that OFCOM has not had the courage to ban all junk food advertising before the 9pm watershed.

Dr Vivienne Nathanson, Head of Science and Ethics at the BMA said:

“OFCOM’s ban on junk food advertising during programmes targeted at under-16s does not go far enough. Some of the most popular programmes amongst the under-16s are soaps which will not be covered by this ban.

“We are in the midst of an obesity epidemic and must use all the weapons in our armoury to prevent the next generation of British children being the most obese and unhealthy in history. OFCOM clearly believes that TV advertising has an effect on children’s eating habits, yet it does not have the courage to recommend a more comprehensive ban.

“Obesity in children stores up a lifetime of poor health. These children are at greater risk of having high blood pressure, developing diabetes and heart problems. Isn’t the health of our children more important than advertising revenues?”

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