The report, Kids Nutrition: New Perspectives and Opportunities, assessed the eating habits of 5 - 13-year-olds in France, Germany, Italy, NL, Russia, Spain, Sweden, UK, US, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Japan, Republic of Korea, China, India, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and South Africa.

Children in Europe and the Americas tipped the scales on childhood obesity figures with high levels of carbonated drinks and snack foods consumed regularly.

Higher disposable incomes and the availability of a wide range of products were seen as the root causes of the epidemic.

The report stated: "With prosperity increasing globally, there has been an increased propensity for kids to over indulge, leading to the numbers of overweight children rising alarmingly."

Bakery and cereal products were most popular with children in Europe and the Middle East.

Warnings were also made to regions with lower obesity levels but that had seen dramatic increases in over-weight children.

"While kids' obesity levels are less severe in Asia Pacific and the MEA (Middle Eastern and African countries), levels in these countries are growing year on year."

More children are developing type 2 diabetes - which is usually associated with adults - in their teens as a result of being over-weight.

The report acknowledged the efforts of manufacturers to develop healthy, fruit-filled children's foods.