FAU welcomes Ofcom’s research on food advertising

The Food Advertising Unit (FAU) has welcomed today’s publication by Ofcom of its Child obesity – food advertising in context research report.

Jeremy Preston, Director of the Food Advertising Unit said “This is a considered and wide-ranging piece of research, which recognises that obesity is a multi-faceted problem and needs a broad-based, holistic approach. We have maintained that scape-goating advertising through bans would not only be disproportionate but also ineffective in tackling obesity. This has been supported by Ofcom’s findings today.”

“The FAU argues that it will only be through the encouragement of behavioural change among adults and the young, through information and motivation, that society is going to be able to address the problem of childhood obesity. Ofcom’s research highlights the need for Government departments and stakeholders to work together.

The advertising industry can play a useful role in effecting the positive behavioural changes needed to combat obesity.”

“The food advertising industry looks forward to responding to Ofcom’s code consultation in the autumn.”

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Notes to editors

1. The Food Advertising Unit (FAU), based in the offices of the UK Advertising Association is a centre for information, communication and research in the area of food advertising, particularly television advertising to children. The FAU represents media, manufacturers and agencies with an interest in food advertising.

For further information

Contact Suzanne Edmond on 020 7828 2771.

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