Health service backs junk food ad ban

STAFF at Bendigo Health are putting their support behind a New South Wales politician’s goal to stop junk food advertising.

Independent member for the Federal seat of Mackellar, Dr Sophie Scamps, is drafting a parliamentary bill with the aim of banning the sponsorship by, and advertising of, unhealthy foods during prime-time television hours.

Bendigo Health CEO Peter Faulkner said curbing junk food would be an important step in encouraging kids to eat healthier.

“We know that historical changes to Australian tobacco advertising laws, particularly around sport and sponsorship, had an enormous impact on the number of people smoking,” he said.

“When we give children consistent, positive messaging and good food options, we create a tangible link between what they eat and living a healthy life.

“Any action which limits the unhealthy food messaging getting through to children would be a significant step forward.”

The proposed bill is also backed by Australia’s Obesity Policy Coalition and a spokesperson estimated that advertisers spend more than $550 million annually on mostly unhealthy food promotion.

It’s also estimated in the groups National Obesity Strategy that children aged between five and eight who watch about 80 minutes of television a day are exposed to over 800 unhealthy food ads a year.

OPC’s executive manager Jane Martin said it’s important for children to be informed about healthy eating choices.

“This is about creating a community that sends the right message about healthy living to our kids as they grow, learn and play,” she said

“Our children deserve to go about their daily lives without being bombarded by ads for unhealthy food and sugary drinks which is the wallpaper that surrounds their lives.”

In further supporting the initiative, Bendigo Health and partnering health services have removed high sugar drinks from stores and vending machines.