Melbourne, November 17 Fast-food giant McDonald's was named the most irresponsible creator of food promotions in three out of four categories at Australia's annual children's food marketing Fame and Shame Awards.

The hamburger chain drew votes from more than 200 members of the Parents Jury, an online network of parents who promote improving children's food and physical activity, reports News.com.au.

These included McDonald's sponsorship of a high school maths website (the inaugural 'Techno Hack' category), the 'Pester Power' award for animated Happy Meal TV ads which feature animation and play equipment, and the Jury's 'Bad Sport' category for sponsorship of grassroots state Little Athletics competitions.

Victorian Health Services Commissioner Beth Wilson said: "There is a deluge of propaganda out there. Advertisers understand very, very well the psychology of children and they really cash in on it."

The event further credited those promoting healthy food choices to kids with El Tronko of NSW The Socceroos bagging the Fame Award for Parents Choice with Sanitarium Weet Bix and Batlow apples. (ANI)