Mexico state bans sale of junk food to children

Team Udayavani, Aug 7, 2020, 9:08 AM IST

Oaxaca state in Mexico  banned the sale, distribution and advertising of junk food and sugary drinks to children in an attempt to curb obesity.

Oaxaca is the first state to take such a measure. The move comes as Mexico’s number of deaths linked to Covid-19 nears 50,000 and the government wants to push for healthy diet for children

According to BBC, About 73% of the Mexican population is overweight, compared to one-fifth of the population in 1996

Oaxaca is the Mexican state with the highest child obesity rate and the second-highest rate in adults

The new law forbids the sale, distribution and promotion of sugary drinks and junk food to those under age. It will also apply to vending machines in schools