Evaluation of the removal of HFSS ‘junkfood’ advertising in public transport networks on junk-food awareness and purchasing in London: impact and process evaluation

Marketing and branding is effective in encouraging the purchase and consumption of unhealthy food and drink, but the impact of outdoor advertising specifically needs further research (PHE, 2018). Advertising not only influences adult behaviour but also children’s food choices resulting in pressure being put on parents to buy unhealthy foods. The Mayor of London is therefore implementing restrictions on the advertising of high fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) food and drink (as defined by the DH’s Nutrient Profile Model) advertising across the Transport for London (TfL) estate. TfL advertising estate makes up approximately 40 per cent of London’s out of home advertising by revenue. This new policy will come into force on February 25th 2019.

This project aims undertake (i) an impact evaluation and (ii) a process and implementation evaluation of the removal of HFSS advertising on exposure to HFSS advertising, perceptions of HFSS foods and food purchasing in London.