UK Teens Regularly See Junk Food Ads Influencer Marketing Impact

New research from Cancer Research UK reveals that children and teenagers in the UK are frequently exposed to junk food content on social media, with over half of young people aged 11 to 21 seeing posts promoting high fat, salt, and sugar products within the past month. Influencer-led content is particularly influential, with nearly 40% of youths engaging by liking or sharing posts, often making it difficult to distinguish between adverts and entertainment. This constant exposure has been linked to increased cravings and temptation, contributing to rising obesity rates among children, which is a significant risk factor for cancer. New laws set to take effect in January 2026 will ban paid online advertising of certain unhealthy foods and restrict junk food adverts on television before 9pm, though campaigners warn that loopholes and delays in enforcement could undermine these efforts. Experts emphasize that tackling childhood obesity requires stronger regulations akin to those used for tobacco advertising and greater government action to create a healthier online environment. Meanwhile, nutritionists highlight the pervasive impact of junk food marketing beyond social media, including traditional media and in-store promotions, calling for comprehensive policies to protect children from this powerful marketing influence.