Regulation of food advertising in the Americas. Case studies from Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Peru

The advertising of unhealthy food products is based on the exploitation of irrational beliefs, desires, or illusions that weaken decision-making and self-control. This contributes to dietary imbalances in populations and the prevalence of multiple forms of malnutrition in the Region of the Americas and the world. The regulation of food advertising is a key policy tool to reduce the demand for harmful products. Some countries have specific laws on the advertising of unhealthy food products, while others rely on existing regulations to restrict it; in both cases, the aim is to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights obligations, especially the right to health and adequate food and nutrition, among other related rights. This publication shows how the regulation of advertising is intertwined with various aspects of human rights. It compiles case studies on the advertising of unhealthy food products that highlight the competing interests of the health sector and the industry. Finally, it presents the experience acquired in these countries with a view to enhancing the protection of the right to healthy food, public health, and human rights.