The impact of food marketing on children's dietary behaviour : a systematic review

Abstract

The prevalence of childhood obesity has grown to an alarming rate globally and marketing of unhealthy foods is a contributor to the obesogenic environment which is a key driver of the rising rates of childhood obesity. The food industries have targeted children in the past few years and have viewed children as future potential consumers. Evidence has shown that food marketing has severe and long-lasting impact on children’s dietary behaviour. This review aims to explore evidence of the impact of food marketing on children’s dietary behaviour as well as explore existing policies and strategies restricting marketing of unhealthy food to children.