The Effect of Advertising and Marketing Practices on Child Obesity

Childhood obesity and overweight children are serious and widespread problems in developed countries and in particular in the European Union. Many factors influence the diffusion of this epidemic: food advertising is certainly a significant factor. This study, based on existing data and expertise, assesses several aspects: the problem's dimension, to what extent the exposure to advertising and marketing influences children diet behaviour; existing regulations in food and beverages marketing towards children and the impact of production and distribution on children's obesity. This paper is committed to presenting a balanced picture of the variety of views supported by professionals in this field.