Stricter rules for junk food advertising in Great Britain

From October 2025, stricter rules on junk food advertising will come into effect in Great Britain. Both television and online platforms will face limitations on advertising unhealthy food products. This new policy is part of a broader strategy by the Labour government to tackle childhood obesity. Statistics show that one in three British children is overweight or obese by the time they leave primary school.

Under the new ban, junk food adverts will no longer be allowed online, and television ads will be restricted until after 9 p.m. This measure follows earlier efforts to reduce the influence of unhealthy food on children. In 2009, junk food advertisements were already banned during TV programs aimed at children under 16. The government hopes this new step will further contribute to protecting young viewers.

Previous measures against unhealthy food 

This is not the first time the British government has taken action against unhealthy foods. In 2016, a sugar tax was introduced, encouraging manufacturers to reduce the sugar content in soft drinks. Since April 2022, hospitality businesses with more than 250 employees have been required to display calorie information on their menus. Additionally, supermarkets are now required to keep unhealthy products out of prominent locations in stores.

What foods are considered junk food? 

Junk food covers a wide range of products, from sugary soft drinks and snacks to pizzas and ready meals. The British government uses a classification system that evaluates foods based on their levels of fat, sugar, and salt. Products that do not meet the set criteria will not be permitted to advertise under the new regulations.

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