TODAY IS THE LAST DAY: Tell the FTC to Implement Food Marketing Principles

California Convergence members, we have an important opportunity to tell the FTC that we need principles for food marketing to kids.

It's just not fair. We can't expect parents to stand toe to toe with the billions of dollars being spent by the food and beverage industry to market to their kids. Food marketing is everywhere, targeting kids with ads for sugary, salty, high-fat junk foods. It's time to take a stand, and we have only one day left to make a BIG difference.

I've spent years researching how companies market to children, and I've never seen a better opportunity to turn the tide than the one we have right now. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and a coalition of federal agencies answered the call from Congress to develop commonsense, voluntary principles that would help companies market only food and beverages that support good nutrition. They want to hear from YOU by July 14th.

Take Action Now! http://wfc2.wiredforchange.com/o/8726/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=52...

Food and beverage marketing is more invasive and engaging than ever before. These new principles will help ensure it is part of the solution instead of part of the problem. They are especially important at a time when we have extremely high childhood obesity rates and when parents need all the help they can get to make sure their kids get the healthy foods they need.

The fast-food industry spent more than $4.2 billion in 2009 on TV, digital, mobile, radio and other advertising, nearly half a million dollars every hour. The year before, the Coca-Cola Company spent $752 million on marketing efforts in the United States, while rival PepsiCo spent a staggering $1.3 billion.

Many companies say they want to be part of the solution to the childhood obesity epidemic, yet continue to market junk food to children. These principles will help every company do better. I support the proposed principles, and I hope you will too.

Will you make your voice heard?

Sincerely,

Lori Dorfman
Director, Berkeley Media Studies Group

Post comments today:

http://wfc2.wiredforchange.com/o/8726/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=52...