Published in Globalization and Health by Springer Nature, the article A political economy analysis of the legislative response to unhealthy food and beverage marketing in Chile, Canada and the UK by Fiona Sing, Sally Mackay, Boyd Swinburn, and Kelly Garton explores the political and economic forces shaping governments’ approaches to regulating unhealthy food marketing. Despite global calls for legal measures to protect children from harmful food advertising, legislative action remains limited.
Using a multiple case study methodology, the authors analyse policy processes in Chile, Canada, and the UK, applying a political economy framework that examines institutions, interests, ideas, and power dynamics. The study highlights how neoliberal ideologies and institutional paradigms influence policy development, often prioritising commercial interests over public health. By identifying key barriers and enablers, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers seeking to implement effective regulations to reduce children’s exposure to unhealthy food marketing.