The Myth of Choice: How Junk Food Marketing Targets Kids

Anne Lappe of Food MythBusters has launched a second animated movie that takes on the myth of personal choice and exposes the harmful impact of marketing to kids. “We believe that marketing targeting children and teenagers is a public health crisis,” says Anne Lappe. BoomerWarrior is pleased to feature this disturbing video about the pervasive influence of food marketers on the young minds of children and teenagers.

Food companies tell us they’re just doing their job, serving up what kids really want. But are those foods really what kids want or are they what corporations are pushing on them? They spend nearly $2 billion per year on ads, promotions and sponsorships, specifically targeting children and teens on what’s cool to eat.

One of three kids eats fast foods every day and nearly half of calories that teens and kids eat are from fast foods. Only 16 percent are getting enough fruits and vegetables.

Diet-related diseases are spiraling out of control – by the time students complete secondary school, one out of three shows signs of diabetes.

A typical kid sees nearly 5,000 TV ads for foods and drinks every year. Food experts have figured out the psychology of how kids think about food.

If you're like me and feel concerned about the health and well-being of your grandchildren, make sure you share this post with your friends and family.