Snack companies warned about advertising unhealthy food to kids

Food companies will soon face tougher rules about marketing unhealthy snacks and fast-food items to kids. Sort of, and not soon enough. According to the Wall Street Journal (subscription required), a working group composed of government regulators has recommended that any food that isn't a "meaningful contribution to a healthful diet" shouldn't be advertised to children.

Here's the catch.

The Federal Trade Commission says the regulations are neither "regulations" nor legally binding. Actually, it's more of a mild threat. In other words, either do this yourself, or we'll have to do it for you.