WASHINGTON (AP) — Michelle Obama wants food makers and media companies to spend less time advertising sweet and salty foods to kids and more time promoting healthier options.
The first lady on Wednesday is convening a White House summit on food marketing. The White House says the goal is to get involved parties talking about how to help consumers make healthier food choices, including by enlisting the persuasive power of the multimillion-dollar food marketing industry.
Representatives from the food and media industries have been invited, along with advocates, parents, representatives of government agencies and researchers.
Consumer advocates say studies show food marketing is a leading contributor to obesity because it influences what children want to eat.
The advocates say companies are slowly making changes but more improvements are needed.
