The UK government will introduce a ban on junk food advertising on the internet and before 9 p.m. on TV, effective October 1, 2025, in an effort to combat childhood obesity. The measure, part of the Labor Party’s manifesto that led to Keir Starmer’s election victory in July, is aimed at reducing exposure of unhealthy food ads to children.
The move comes after Starmer pledged to implement major reforms in the National Health Service (NHS), focusing on preventative measures. Junior Health Minister Andrew Gwynne emphasized the urgency, noting that over 20% of children in England are already overweight or obese by the time they start school, and the figure rises to more than one-third by the age of 11.
The ban will target ads for foods high in fat, sugar, and salt, which evidence suggests can shape children’s eating habits. While supported by former Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the policy has faced criticism from the political right, with accusations of government overreach.
The government is also considering other measures to reduce the strain on the NHS, including banning energy drinks for under-16s. Think-tanks like The Centre for Young Lives have encouraged the government to stand firm against critics and expand initiatives to further protect children’s health.