The complex issue of food, advertising, and child health

Abstract

Interviews Jeremy Preston, Director of the Food Advertising Unit in the UK, on the crucial issues of child obesity and health; the FAU was set up in 1995 under the auspices of the Advertising Association. Explains the work of the FAU in acting as a centre for information, communication and research in the field of food advertising, especially in regard to children. Reviews the legislation in various countries which attempts to restrict the amount of advertising to children. Outlines Jeremy Preston’s views that children are more sophisticated than adults think, and that they know how advertising works from a young age; he sees education, exercise and improved labelling as important methods of promoting healthy lifestyles to children.

Citation

Clarke, B. (2003), "The complex issue of food, advertising, and child health", Young Consumers, Vol. 5 No. 1, pp. 11-16. https://doi.org/10.1108/17473610410814003