GENEVA—The World Health Organization (WHO) called for its 193 member states to change food and non-alcoholic beverages marketing tactics to help reduce childhood obesity, reported Reuters. According to the article, the WHO recommendations include limiting children's exposure to television advertising and making schools and playgrounds free from all forms of marketing of junk food and sugary drinks.
The WHO new guidelines noted, "The risks presented by unhealthy diets start in childhood and build up throughout life,” said the article.
Reuters reported U.S. Surgeon-General Regina Benjamin endorsed the plan, saying the recommendations should help members promote healthy food choices and reduce childhood obesity.
The new WHO guidelines comes on the heels of Michelle Obama’s 70-point plan for reducing childhood obesity within a generation, said the article. Her plan also included marketing healthier food.
The article added that the WHO adopted a global strategy on diet and physical activity in 2004.