Revisiting the Regulation Debate: The Effect of Food Marketing on Childhood Obesity

[Excerpt] “Despite the widespread concern regarding childhood obesity, there is broad divergence of opinion regarding responsibility for the crisis. Whether the government, food industry, or parents are accountable has become the focus of much debate. Public health groups have attempted various strategies to confront childhood obesity, such as litigation, legislation, and government regulation. While many researchers and advocates agree that government should play an affirmative role with respect to childhood obesity, they are very much divided over what that role should be. For example, although none of these acts has become law, eighty-six bills have been proposed regarding obesity since the 106th Congress. Thirteen bills in the 109th Congress dealt specifically with childhood obesity. Although some urge the government to inform the public about healthy eating and healthy activities, they also argue that governmental action going beyond informational and educational functions would be too oppressive. Many advocates call for government oversight more robust than merely mandating calorie disclosures at fast-food restaurants, labels on grocery products, and nutrition education in public schools.