ACMA Review Should Lead to Ban on Junk Food Advertising to Kids
Chair of the AMA Public Health Committee, Dr John Gullotta, said today that the review of children's television standards by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) should lead to a ban on junk food advertising in children's TV viewing times.
Dr Gullotta said the AMA will be making a submission to the ACMA review and he urged all groups concerned with child health and obesity to do the same.
"A ban on junk food advertising to kids must be a priority of the ACMA review," Dr Gullotta said.
"Childhood obesity is one of the greatest health risks in Australia today.
"It causes a significant burden on the health system and puts our children at risk of a number of health complications, including diabetes.
"Banning junk food ads during kids' viewing times is an easy and cost-effective way to help kids get a healthier start in life."
The ACMA issues paper released this week discusses amending children's television standards to specifically address the issue of food advertising to children.
The AMA is a member of the Coalition on Food Advertising to Children, which earlier this year sent a comprehensive briefing paper to Federal and State MPs calling for an immediate ban on junk food ads during children's television time.