Federal Trade Commission creates new guidelines for children’s food advertisements

Fruit Loops look really good to a 2-year-old who catches a glimpse of their bright colors during a commercial break. Which might be why by 5, when they’re aware someone is actually trying to sell them Fruit Loops, they’re already hooked on the rainbow appeal.

The Federal Trade Commission has issued new guidelines to crack down on what foods are marketed to kids and how.

WHYY’s Taunya English talked to experts about the guidelines. Though not mandatory right now, the FTC is encouraging marketers to “promote only foods low in fats, sugars and sodium when they are targeting children age 2 to 17.”