Childhood Obesity: Should Junk Food be Regulated?

But in the UK, the Food Commission felt that only laws could make advertising controls stick. The food industry also began to face mounting pressure from consumer groups to control erring food companies. Some consumers also filed lawsuits against major food companies.

GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES

In 2000, the US Government (Department of Agriculture) made it mandatory for food companies to adhere to strict nutritional labeling norms that would give details of the sugar and fat content of their products. Various state governments also brought in regulations against junk food promotions. In Fall 2004, Texas banned advertisements of junk food like sodas and candy bars at schools...

McDonald's faced criticism for selling food that is high in fat and calories. As people became more aware of the downside of fast food, McDonald's began promoting the idea of an active lifestyle to adults as well as children. In 2004, it focused on promoting the Go Active!^TM Adult Happy Meal throughout its restaurants in the US. The 'Happy Meal' for adults included a 'Stepometer' and a brochure that promotes walking; the brochure was written by Bob Greene, an exercise physiologist and Oprah Winfrey's personal trainer. McDonald's created a website called GoActive.com to educate children and parents about healthy lifestyles and physical activities. The company took on part-sponsorship of the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Cup (Soccer)...