Following a public consultation, the UK Government has now announced that regulations will come into force (by the end of 2022) to introduce a 9pm watershed for advertisements of foods high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS).
The promotion of such products will sadly still be permitted on company websites, social media platforms and unfortunate exemptions will be in place for online audio, podcasts and internet radio stations.
The BDA recognises that obesity is complex and multi-factorial, and welcomes all actions that contribute to improved population health. Whilst this announcement is positive there remains a need for wider, sustained actions which work in parallel with properly funded, effective and integrated services.
As a member of the Obesity Health Alliance (OHA), the BDA shares its concerns regarding the effectiveness of an approach based largely on personal responsibility.
The BDA responded to the Government’s consultation in December 2020.