Animated characters like "Dora the Explorer" may no longer be used on the packaging of certain foods that could harm the health of young children.
In an effort to discourage unhealthy eating habits, the Dutch food industry says it intends to remove certain cartoon characters from the packaging of various products, as these have an appealing effect on children, reports The Guardian.
In this way, the industry can more easily prevent the consumption of undesirable foods, such as various types of sweets.
The decision was made following “ public debates about the impact of advertising aimed at children ,” states the Dutch Federation of Food Industries (FNLI). “ Obesity is a problem that the food industry is very concerned about .”
The first move of its kind in Europe leads to the removal, from generic products deemed harmful, of images that capture the attention of younger children. The new measure aims to reduce packaging featuring " media characters " targeted at children up to 13 years old, explains FNLI.
Dutch Health Ministry spokeswoman Leonne Gartz revealed that the measures would involve removing characters like Miffy the rabbit and Dora the Explorer from the food market, but not the animated images associated with specific product brands.
This measure could be helpful for parents in the " fight against childhood obesity ," and the FNLI hopes it will be implemented next year, after several tests to ensure there is no unfair competition in the market.
Martin van Rijin, the Dutch Deputy Minister of Health, conveyed his satisfaction to De Telegraaf and praised the initiative. " It is important to me that children and parents are spared the constant bombardment of advertising that leads to unhealthy food choices ."
