Europe Takes Bold Steps Toward Healthier Food Environments

23 May 2025

Across Europe, more and more governments are taking action to make food healthier—especially for children and people who need extra care. Recently, Norway, Denmark, and Spain have each introduced new rules to help reduce the impact of junk food in everyday life.

In 25 April 2025, Norway has become the first country in Europe to ban ads for unhealthy food and drinks aimed at youngsters under 18. It covers products like candy, soda, ice cream, and energy drinks—which are high in sugar, salt, or fat. The law builds on earlier voluntary rules but now includes real penalties when not respected. There is a six-month period to adjust, and a few exceptions are allowed, such as sponsorships that don’t promote specific products. 

More info: Norway bans marketing of unhealthy food and drinks to children – regjeringen.no

Denmark is planning a similar law that would stop junk food ads aimed at children under 15. The goal is to fix gaps in the current system, which still lets companies reach children through social media and influencers. If the law passes, it will apply to all major platforms, including TV and online, and companies that break the rules could be fined. This would make Denmark one of the strictest countries in Europe when it comes to protecting children from junk food marketing.

More info: Denmark Proposes Comprehensive Ban on Junk-Food Ads Aimed at Under-15s

Spain is focusing on the food served in public places like hospitals and nursing homes. A new rule announced by Minister Pablo Bustinduy will set clear nutrition standards for meals in these places. The idea is to make sure the food is both healthy and good for the planet. This follows a similar effort to improve food in school cafeterias and responds to public concern about the quality of meals in care facilities. 

More info: The Moncloa. 15/05/2025. Bustinduy announces a royal decree to guarantee healthy eating in hospitals and nursing homes [Press/News/Social Rights, Consumption and Agenda 2030]

Together, these steps show how countries are working to improve diets and protect public health—especially for children and people who rely on care services.