Digital Food Marketing to Young People: A Substantial Public Health Challenge

Prevention of childhood obesity is an international public health priority, given the significant impact of excess weight on acute and chronic diseases, general health, development and well-being. Given the limited effect of interventions at the individual level, more comprehensive measures are needed in a "joined-up, whole systems approach" in line with the EU Action Plan. One area that has attracted considerable attention as a modifiable risk factor for unhealthy diets and weight gain is digital marketing. The proliferation of digital food and beverage marketing has led to concerns about the influence of this type of exposure on the health and well-being of children, particularly given their cognitive and developmental vulnerabilities. Although still in relative infancy, there is sufficient evidence emerging to suggest that concern about the public health implications of young people's exposure to digital marketing for unhealthy foods and beverages is justified.