It is said that children in America recognise, in a photo line-up, Ronald McDonald before Jesus or George Washington.
Think about that for a second because, frankly, it’s a terrifying fact.
Fast food companies are targeting our little ones and turning them into additive-addicted, junk-loving zombies – and it must be stopped.
Toys, play areas and brightly coloured adverts are designed to hook children young and turn them into lifelong consumers. Think about it: when new children’s movies are released – such as the latest Disney or Minions offering – where are the first places that they are promoted? In fast food restaurant campaigns. What a way to integrate innocent childhood joy with ultra-processed, artery clogging, heart-quickening proto-food and fizzy, high sugar drinks!
Associating play with such sustenance is even more morally indefensible. The fact that some fast-food restaurants have play areas is worse still, while the idea that a meal featuring chicken nuggets and chips should be called ‘happy’ is a clear attempt to create some emotional connection.
It should be stopped – because allowing multi-national mega-companies to create a problematic dynamic with food is surely the basis not only for obesity and health issues in later life but perhaps also for more profound addictions. It creates a template: seeking temporary joy sourced from something that’s bad for us.
We, as adults, must now stand up to this lunacy – or our children too will recognise Ronald McDonald far too young.
