The UK’s advertising regulator has banned a Nestlé TV ad campaign for its cereals that recommends three servings of whole grains a day.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said the “three-a-day” claim was misleading and could be confused with the government-backed five-a-day message on fruit and vegetables.


“We thought the average consumer would be confused by the three-a-day message,” a spokesperson for Advertising Standards told just-food. “Consumers may have thought Nestlé’s three-a-day message was supported by the government when it was just a commercial message.”


While the UK’s Food Standards Agency encourages people to eat more fibre, the authority does not suggest three servings of fibre a day.


Nestlé claims studies have found links between wholegrain consumption and prevention of heart disease, diabetes and cancer. The company maintains its advert is accurate and substantiated.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

“We take great care to ensure that the information in our advertisements is accurate and substantiated. We are continuing to liaise with the ASA about this matter,” a spokesperson for Nestlé UK told just-food. 

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now