Michelle Obama’s hatred for junk food may have just crossed the pond.
The Scottish government is demanding ads for products high in fat, sugar, and salt be banned from TVs until after 9 p.m., according to the Daily Record.
Though junk food advertisements are already banned from showing during children’s programs, ministers feel that the ads during shows like the “X Factor” are influencing them.
“Broadcast advertising influences the choices made by children,” said Scottish Public Health Minister Michael Matheson. “And can shape their attitudes to food as they grow into adulthood.”
“Tackling obesity andencouraging people to make healthier life choices is one of the most important things we can do to improve the health of our nation,” he added.
We don’t think an eight-year-old walked to a local Burger King the last time a cheeseburger flashed on the screen and bought one with their allowance money. Nonetheless, they will be banned from advertising along with chicken nuggets, fries, cereals high in sugar, chocolate and other things people actually enjoy eating .
One good thing that may come out of this ban is that companies like Mars, McDonald’s, Cadbury, and KFC won’t be losing roughly 263 mil a year on advertising.
While it may seem to be an unusual ban, health professionals have welcomed it. Jane Landon of the National Heart Forum said, “The crisis in children’s dietary health urgently demands bolder measures.”
However, not everyone agrees the ban will be effective. “This idea has the potential to be very damaging to broadcasters,” Advertising Associated spokesman Ian barber said. “And it is unnecessary as all evidence suggests it is not going to make any difference.”