The marketing of unhealthy foods to children and youth is a major public health concern. Children in the United States grow up surrounded by food and beverage marketing, which primarily promotes products with excessive amounts of added sugar, salt, and fat, and inadequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This issue brief outlines a comprehensive set of model definitions for responsible food marketing practices directed to children from birth to age 14 and compares these recommendations with industry’s current self-regulatory efforts. Findings presented in this issue brief are drawn from the full report, Recommendations for Responsible Food Marketing to Children, developed by a national panel of experts convened by Healthy Eating Research.
Age Groups: Adolescents (grades 9 to 12), Elementary-age children (grades K to 5), Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5), Young adolescents (grades 6 to 8)
Race/Ethnicity: African American or Black, Latino(a) or Hispanic, Multi-racial/ethnic
Keywords: Digital marketing, Fast food, Food advertising, In-store marketing, Media, Point-of-decision prompts, Self-regulation, Social media
Resource Type: Expert Panel Report
Focus Areas: Food Marketing, School & After School
Related Research
January 2015
Infographic: Responsible Food Marketing to Children
The marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to children and youth contributes to poor diet quality, high calorie intake, and excess weight gain. This infographic portrays the reach and impact of marketing unhealthy foods and beverages to children and the need for more responsible food marketing to children. Comprehensive guidelines for responsible food marketing to MoreJanuary 2015
Recommendations for Responsible Food Marketing to Children
The marketing of unhealthy foods to children and youth is a major public health concern. Children in the United States grow up surrounded by food and beverage marketing, which primarily promotes products with excessive amounts of added sugar, salt, and fat, and inadequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This document provides a comprehensive MoreDecember 2024