WASHINGTON — The typical American child saw 10% fewer food and beverages ads on children’s television in 2007 as compared to the previous year, according to a Georgetown Economic Services report released here earlier this week. On all television programming, the average child saw 6.4% fewer food and beverages ads and 12- to 17-year-olds saw 4.5% fewer ads. Yesterday the Grocery Manufacturers Association and the Association of National Advertisers formally requested that the report be included in the record of the Appropriations Subcommittees on Labor, Health and Human Services and Related Agencies, and Financial Services and General Government joint hearing regarding food marketing to kids. “The food and beverage industry has been working with policymakers, non-governmental organizations, parents, advertisers and other stakeholders in recent years to restructure its marketing practices to promote nutritious choices and promote a healthier lifestyle,” said GMA interim president and chief executive officer Manly Molpus, in a statement. “While there is more work to be done, the GES report showcases the fact that industry’s commitment, combined with voluntary marketing changes, is working.”
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