Advertisement of unhealthy foods to be controlled by Consumo in an effort to curb childhood obesity issue
The Spanish government has taken a significant step towards protecting the health of children by announcing a new law to regulate the advertising of unhealthy foods targeted at minors. This initiative aligns with the recommendations of international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).
Pablo Bustinduy, the Minister of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and Agenda 2030, made the announcement after his visit to a school cafeteria at the CEIP Ana Soto de Albacete. The minister has been vocal about the need to regulate advertising for unhealthy products aimed at minors, a topic he first mentioned in 2021.
Under the new law, Consumer Affairs will prohibit the advertising of sweets, biscuits, ice cream, or juices targeted at minors under 16 years of age. This measure follows the steps of other European countries like the UK, Portugal, and Norway, which have already implemented similar restrictions to protect the food health of children.
The WHO recommends restricting the advertising of foods according to their nutritional quality as a means to combat childhood obesity. According to the organization, the majority of the foods and beverages advertised in Spain during children's hours are of low nutritional quality. Spanish children are exposed to more than 4,000 ads for unhealthy food a year, which translates to eleven ads a day.
Exposure to advertising of foods with high levels of fats, sugars, or salt has a negative effect on the health of schoolchildren, especially those from families with fewer resources. This is a concern that was also highlighted by Alberto Garzón, the former Minister of Consumer Affairs, in 2021.
The government's initiative to prohibit the advertising of unhealthy products targeted at minors has generated controversy in the advertising sector and the food industry. However, the government's commitment to protecting children from the advertising of unhealthy foods remains firm.
It's worth noting that the government has already taken steps to ensure students have access to healthy meals in school canteens. The government has regulated the right to eat healthily in school canteens, ensuring that students have access to five healthy meals a week.
The draft decree to prohibit the advertising of unhealthy products targeted at minors is part of the government's broader effort to promote a healthier lifestyle for Spanish children. The government's aim is to create an environment where children are not constantly bombarded with advertisements for unhealthy foods, thereby reducing their exposure to such products and promoting healthier eating habits.
