Knowsley Council has announced that it has introduced a ‘groundbreaking’ new policy to promote healthier lifestyles in its communities.
The council’s cabinet has approved a new Healthier Food and Drink Advertising Policy, which will see the promotion of unhealthy food and drink limited on Council-owned advertising spaces. Bringing into use the Nutrient Profiling Model, the policy will see restrictions placed on advertisements for products that are high in fat, salt, and sugar, these will then be replaced by healthier alternatives from either the same or alternative brands.
By adopting this new policy, Knowsley has become the first in the North West to introduce such restrictions. This has led to the council committing to promoting the approach with other authorities, in a bid to bring the region together to tackle the challenge of unhealthy food and drink advertising.
Cabinet Member for Health at Knowsley Council, Cllr Christine Bannon, said:
“Knowsley, like many communities, faces challenges related to rising obesity rates and diet-related illnesses. Exposure to advertising for unhealthy products, particularly targeting children, is a significant contributing factor. This policy aims to create a healthier environment by restricting the promotion of these products and encouraging healthier choices.
“This policy demonstrates Knowsley’s commitment to a healthier and more equitable future for all residents. By restricting unhealthy food advertising, the Council is taking a proactive step towards creating a healthier environment and empowering residents to make informed choices about their well-being.”
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