Marc Wellness International Blog

THE South Australian Government will outlaw junk food advertisements during children’s television programs if the industry does not agree to a voluntary ban.

South Australia’s Health Minister John Hill states “With SA figures showing one in five of our state’s four-year-olds are either overweight or obese, and similar figures across Australia, these big companies need to take action and be part of the campaign to stop the escalating obesity crisis”. With these alarming figures of childhood obesity occuring, Mr Hill is taking one step which could make a difference to the contributing factors that are influencing the rise on childhood obesity for his state South Australia.

Of an afternoon when kids race home and watch TV it is what’s in the ad breaks that make a difference. Children who usually watch Television straight after school, are watching when their tummies are rumbling for an afternoon snack and in the mornings it is just as bad. Children can be watching TV whilst eating breakfast and what is on the screen? Ads for fast food and high sugar products!

The article stated that “Another survey, conducted in NSW, revealed 10 junk food advertisements were shown each hour during children’s television times.” Imagine that 10 junk food ads per hour, and when children watch an ad, time and time again naturally what do kids want? No time is better then right now, for the government and industries to step up and make a change. Make a change to help the kids of the next generations to lead a healthier lifestyle. Because not only do these ads influence children’s choice on what to eat, it increases the pester power towards mum and dad who are trying hard to make a difference.

The article continued “78 per cent of people believed there was too much advertising for unhealthy food during children’s TV programs.”  With 78% knowing there is too much advertising for unhealthy food shouldn’t this be enough to help get these ads banned. The concern is obviously there!

Whilst the government in South Australia is making a statement to implement change what about the rest of the nation? It is great that one state is stepping up but it’s time for all of us to make a change. But don’t wait for the change to be approved - you can make a change in your family’s life right now! Simply by increasing your children’s play time outside each day and decreasing their indoor couch television time. Start implementing changes such as:

- No TV before school or no TV before 7pm

- Go for a walk or play in the backyard as a family together each night after dinner. Or set a time each day which is family active time, to play and have fun outdoors!

These TV free activities and more can be read in our latest book “Please Mum, Don’t Supersize Me!” 

Read the entire article - Ban junk food ads on kids tv ‘or else’