Tools- of Changes

Restrictions on the Advertisement of High Fat, Salt and Sugar Products

This open-access, controlled study looked at the impacts of restricting junk food ads on the busses, subway cars, stops and stations in London, UK. It estimated a direct reduction in obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and associated health cost savings.

• In 2019, London's integrated travel system started restricting ads for high fat, salt and sugar products. A controlled interrupted time-series analysis compared London with a control population in the north of England.
• The study found that the ad restrictions reduced junk food purchases. The study also indicated a direct reduction in obesity (94,867 or 4.8% fewer individuals with obesity), diabetes (2,857 fewer individuals) and cardiovascular disease (1,915 fewer) within three years of implementation. In addition, it estimated savings to the national health system of £218 million over the lifetime of the current population.
• Dr. Chloe Thomas, First Author of the study from the University of Sheffield's School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), said: "We all know how persuasive and powerful advertising can be in influencing what we buy - especially the food we eat. Our study has shown what an important tool advertising restrictions can be in order to help people lead healthier lives without costing them more money."

NOTE: Advertising restrictions are also being used for fossil-fuel-related products and services. For more details, see this resource listing.