Our Research And Policy Briefs
SCOTLAND
YOUNG PEOPLE SPEAK: FOOD, POWER AND THE SCOTTISH ELECTION.
Healthy life expectancy in Scotland has fallen below 60, highlighting an urgent public health crisis as young people face constant exposure to junk food advertising.
At a pivotal moment for Scotland’s future, young activists are calling for meaningful change and a seat at the table.
In the MSP Briefing, March 2026 and explore how we can work together to improve Scotland’s food environment.
Why Scotland must Bite Back
From manipulative junk food marketing to rising child health risks, Scotland’s young people are growing up surrounded by food systems stacked against them.
This briefing introduces Bite Back’s youth-led movement and outlines how MSPs can help build a healthier future for every child in Scotland.
UK
An evidence-based approach to brand advertising
Brand adverts are not covered by the current legislation designed to take junk food out of the spotlight. Big Food are exploiting this loophole to keep their brands front and centre in young people's minds. Working with the University of Liverpool, we started a process to collate the evidence and develop policy options.
Surveys show young people want Government action
In 2023, we commissioned Savanta to run two surveys of young people. They are not just customers of the future, they are customers of food businesses now, and they want the food industry to make it easier to eat healthily.
Fast food brands feed even more money into digital ads
We published new analysis showing that digital and social media advertising expenditure by the top ten biggest spending fast food outlets and delivery platforms increased by £37.5m between 2021 and 2022 — a shocking increase of 75%!
An analysis of Big Food's outdoor advertising spend
We published new analysis showing that in 2024, the top 25 food and drink spenders spent £418 million on outdoor advertising in the UK.
Food Systems Accelerator Programme Evaluation
In 2022 and 2023, we piloted the Food Systems Accelerator Programme. Is it possible to influence business change by connecting industry leaders with Bite Back's youth activists? Bremner & Co conducted a process evaluation of the pilot.
Discuss some more...
If you have any questions about the findings, would like to discuss the recommendations in more detail, or are interested in partnering with Bite Back and young people to shape future policy, please contact nika.pajda@biteback2030.com.
