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Foodwatch Targets Child-Marketed Dairy, Presses France for an Ad Ban

The NGO’s report intensifies pressure on policymakers as it argues only a legal curb will stop unhealthy foods being promoted to children.

Overview

  • Foodwatch published findings on October 6 naming ten children’s dairy products, including Kiri Goûter, Danonino, P’tite Danette, Petits Filous and Babybel Mini Rolls.
  • The group says most of the items are ultra-processed and exceed WHO thresholds for sugar, fat or salt while using kid-focused packaging, games and Disney tie-ins.
  • Foodwatch contends these promotions mislead families and contribute to obesity risks cited by Santé publique France and WHO.
  • The government has not enacted a ban and is reported to favor industry self-regulation, as the NGO and 116 groups push for SNANC to include legal restrictions; Foodwatch’s petition has drawn about 67,000 signatures.
  • Manufacturers pushed back, with Carrefour and Bel defending their recipes, while Danone said P’tite Danette will get a 37% sugar reduction by the end of 2025; some flagged products carry a Nutri-Score B, highlighting labeling limits.