Web ban for junk food ads aimed at kids

NEW rules banning junk food adverts aimed at children on social media came into effect yesterday.

The regulations are part of a drive to tackle rising levels of childhood obesity.

The changes mean adverts shown on social media, print and cinema have now been brought into line with TV.

Ofcom figures show that children now spend about 15 hours each week online.

The Committee of Advertising Practice said: “The new rules will alter the nature and balance of food advertising seen by children and play a meaningful part in helping change their relationship with less healthy foods.”