Ban on fast food advertising to be introduced

Councillors at Strategy Finance and City Regeneration Committee agreed recommendations to include restrictions in the advertising of high fat, sugar and salt foods within the procurement for a new contract for city-wide bus and taxi shelter advertising.

Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council and chair of the committee said: “Advertising is constantly adapting and there are many products that used to be advertised that are no longer permitted. It’s important that we make this move to prioritise the health of our residents.

“Evidence shows the link between junk food advertising and an increase in buying and eating unhealthy foods. Restricting what foods can be advertised is just one of a range of measures to help reduce obesity among children and adults in the city.

“This has been successfully introduced elsewhere without a major impact on income, as advertisers have diversified their ads and to meet the restrictions.”

This will not impact the current contract, which will be maintained throughout procurement.

Read full details about the recommendations in the committee report.