Asessment of television food marketing for children according to Ministry of Health nutrition profile guidelines

Abstract

Obesity is a growing problem in infants, children, and adolescents in our country and all over the world. Obese children usually remain obese in their adulthood and they are risk of chronic diseases. In our country, ¼ (24.5%) of 2nd grade students in primary school, approximately 1/3 (30.1%) of middle school students and 1/5 (20.6%) of high school students are obese/overweight. This study was conducted to evaluate TV advertising of these products according to the Healthy Nutrition and Active Life Program of the Turkish Ministry of Health, which is based on World Health Organization recommendations. It was observed that there were numerous inappropriate increased number and time food and beverage advertisements broadcast during programming directed at children. Monitoring and evaluation of mechanisms should be founded according to the 27.03.2018 regulation about Broadcast Service Procedures and Principles initiated by Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK). It is important to encourage healthy habits and take measures to prevent chronic diseases such as obesity in childhood.