Obesity Strategy Mark Two - a major breakthrough: Now for action on oral health

New advertising restrictions could now be introduced to stop foods high in sugar being targeted at children, including a potential 9pm watershed on adverts for the unhealthiest products. The BDA has long advocated changes to end aggressive marketing of high sugar products to children on TV, in store and online. It has also backed support for a wholesale ban on sale of energy drinks to under-16s.

The BDA has expressed regret that closely related issues on tooth decay have struggled for prominence. They have renewed calls for a dedicated and properly funded strategy to address children’s oral health. The government will be consulting on full details of the plan later in the year. The BDA will be responding on behalf of the profession.

Mick Armstrong, chair of the BDA, said,"After a watered-down obesity strategy, we're pleased ministers have offered a more substantial second course. Progress is tribute to unrelenting pressure from both campaigners and health professionals.