Criticism of unhealthy food advertising: Financial experts call for advertising restrictions to protect children

Criticism of unhealthy food advertising: Financial experts call for advertising restrictions to protect children

According to a report by www.boerse.de, the consumer advice centers are calling on the coalition to further restrict advertising for unhealthier foods to protect children. In February 2023, Federal Food Minister Cem Özdemir (Greens) presented legal plans that are intended to contribute to healthier diets and less obesity. However, due to objections from the co-ruling FDP, the project is stuck in the traffic light coalition. Advertising bans for products with too much sugar, fat and salt should therefore be concentrated on times when a particularly large number of children are watching television. Pop said: “Food advertising aimed at children needs to be fully regulated to prevent diet-related diseases.” When it comes to TV advertising for unhealthy foods, it should be taken into account that families also watch sporting events or films together on television during prime time. “Simply regulating commercials in children’s programs doesn’t go far enough.”

The proposed advertising restrictions could have a significant impact on the food and advertising industries. In particular, companies that produce and promote products high in sugar, fat or salt could see a decline in sales. At the same time, healthier food products would likely increase in popularity as advertising of unhealthy products is restricted.
For consumers, this could mean less bombardment of unhealthy food advertisements. This could lead to healthier eating habits in the long term, especially among children who are presented with fewer unhealthy products. The planned regulation could therefore have long-term positive effects on public health.