Health chiefs go to war on junk food ads

Health bosses are cracking down on junk food advertising to curb coach potato families.

A raft measures including restrictions on promoting unhealthy food, support for pregnant women, and nutrition training for services working with families, are among moves to slim waistlines in Renfrewshire and across Scotland.

Particular focus is being given to restrict the advertising of foods high in fat, sugar and salt.

And stemming childhood obesity will start in pre-pregnancy and continue throughout school years and into adolescence.

This includes more support to children, young people and families to achieve a healthy weight, and training for frontline staff in services that work with them.

Public health minister Joe Fitzpatrick said:“Far too many people in Scotland face serious risks to their health linked to poor diet and unhealthy weight.

“This is unacceptable and it’s largely avoidable.

“Giving children the best possible start in life is one of this Government’s key priorities. We’ve pledged to halve childhood obesity by 2030 and that ambition is at the heart of our delivery plan.

“But this is not just about children; two-thirds of adults in Scotland are overweight, and I want everyone, across government, citizens, the public and third sectors and businesses to play their part in achieving our bold vision.”