McDonald's and kids
I eat McDonald's chicken nuggets and fries here and there.
Here's the thing: I'm okay with Jake having fast food once in awhile. Everything in moderation, I say.
When I was growing up, my parents took me and my sister to a fast-food restaurant once a week. As children of Korean immigrants, having American food, or for that matter, fast food, every week was a treat.
That being said, I will hold off buying a Happy Meal or any type of fast food for Jake as long as I can or until Jake asks for one -- and I will at times say yes.
My colleague Andrea Walker at Picture of Health writes that health advocates from around the country have launched a campaign to stop Ronald McDonald from making kids fat.
The group of 550 people have taken out full-page ads challenging McDonald's to stop marketing junk food to kids. They've also written a letter to the corporation. Check out here who signed on in Maryland.
We have had plenty of discussions on this blog about how much responsibility corporations should have when it comes to kid's eating habits.
Many parents believe that they are responsible for establishing healthy eating habits, but they also feel that marketers should curtail excessive advertising toward children.
In a perfect world, kids listen to their parents, and parents are the main influencer of their kids' lives. But we all know that marketing and advertisements can be very effective.
What do you think?
Categories: Food and Recipes, Health, Parenting in general
Comments
Put in its' simplest terms: Ronald McDonald is not making American kids fat. Don't recall seeing any eight year olds driving to the Golden Arches, pulling out their wallets and ordering. American parents are making their kids fat and it's not just about McDonalds. Mosey on out to your own kitchen for a change if you're that concerned about food choices. McDonalds serves quick, easy food that's often needed in the frantic pace we live. It's the American way and it works. Cut the clown some slack.
Posted by: ruth | May 20, 2011 7:07 AM
Lack of exercise is just as responsible for childhood obesity as fast food. Children should spend at least an hour outside every day rain or shine and they would be able to have a burger and fries every once and a while without the parents having to feel guilty.
Posted by: Lisa | May 21, 2011 7:27 AM
Rotten Ronnie has been pushing happy meals for decades, but not until recently we have seen an increase in childhood obesity. Although it is easier for parents to point the finger at a clown, saving our kids' health will only come when we realize WE are the biggest influence. Be a healthy role model for your kids, then maybe they won't be so easily persuaded by a clown. http://blog.mydiscoverhealth.com/
Posted by: Jess1022 | May 24, 2011 10:43 AM
Instead of attacking McDonalds for selling a product, put more effort into education. French fries are okay....just not everyday. We've become lazy and that’s our fault, not Ronald’s.
Posted by: rheaseo25 | May 30, 2011 3:12 AM