Germany tightens rules on advertising unhealthy food for kids

German food marketers have tightened restrictions on advertising unhealthy food to children, now applying it to children 14 and under, instead of 12 and under, and extending to digital media, such as influencer engagement, social networks, and video platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

The Central Association of the German Advertising Industry extended the voluntary restrictions on advertising food high in sugar, fat, and salt.

While the rules do not outright ban advertising unhealthy foods to children, they prohibit ads for them from mentioning positive nutrients like protein.

Germany’s Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture would be keeping an eye on how well the restrictions are observed, suggesting that the government may take action if the voluntary guidelines are not adhered to.

However, consumer advocates charged that the guidelines did not go far enough.

A spokesperson for FoodWatch pointed out that contrary to the demands of the World Health Organization, medical associations, and consumer advocates, manufacturers of sugar bombs and greasy snack foods can still legally advertise their products directly to children.