Junk-Food Ads Put Kids at Risk

WASHINGTON Cartoon characters should be used to promote healthy foods to kids, instead of encouraging them to eat high-calorie treats that are low in nutrients, according to a federal government study released today.

The Institute of Medicine, part of the National Academies which provide advice on science, engineering and medicine, also recommended that the food industry work with health officials and consumer groups to develop a food rating system.

Other recommendations included expanding the scope of the Children’s Advertising Review Unit, the industry group created to monitor ads directed at kids, to include Internet and wireless phone advertising, as well as product placements.

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