Perspectives on Marketing, Self-regulation, and Childhood Obesity. A Report on a Joint Workshop of the Federal Trade Commission & the Department of Health and Human Services

摘要

Childhood obesity rates in the United States have increased dramatically over the past two decades, posing serious health risks for children. In July 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) (collectively the agencies) held a public workshop to consider what the private sector can and should do to help lower childhood obesity rates. The workshop reviewed current food marketing practices and examined the actions that the food industry and media are taking to create and market healthier foods to children and to encourage positive changes in children's diets and health. It also examined current self-regulatory efforts governing food marketing to children. Workshop participants expressed both praise and criticism of existing industry practices and self-regulatory efforts. Some also offered suggestions for ways that industry can build on current efforts and take new steps to tackle the childhood obesity problem.