Fast food and drinks advertisements in UK newspapers and magazines have increased since 2003, according to a government report. Five years ago, print titles in the United Kingdom had a 5 percent share in the specific advertising market, but by 2007, the figure grew to 11 percent, RaisingKids.co.uk reported.

Other media, such as radio, cinema and the Web saw an 11 percent surge in fast food and drinks ads. Meanwhile, the same ads dropped by nearly 50 percent on television last year.

Beginning in 2009, ads promoting foods high in fat, salt or sugar will be banned from childrens' television channels in the United Kingdom, in particular those catering to an audience under 16 years of age, according to RaisingKids.co.uk.

Public Health Minister Dawn Primarolo showed concern over the amount of childhood obesity in the United Kingdom, stating that the food and drink industry plays a significant role in this.

“I am pleased that there are now fewer ads on TV that are tempting our children into bad eating habits, but we must keep our eye on other types of media,” Primarolo said.