Can cartoon characters fight childhood obesity?

As part of the fight against childhood obesity, the World Cancer Research Fund is now using cartoons to get kids interested in eating right, and getting active. Much like Captain Planet taught children about protecting the environment, the WCRF hopes Snack the dog, Professor Foodsmart and the Great Grub Club Gang can teach them about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

The idea is to target 4 to 7-year-olds, in order to preempt disease and obesity later in life. This latest initiative comes after news that children only eat 2 of their recommended 5 daily portions of fruits and vegetables, and that 92% of kids eat too much saturated fat.

However, while it seems like a great way to educate kids, the question remains: is it fun? Children will identify with a cartoon initially, but if it isn't entertaining, I imagine the initiative will quickly lose steam -- or only succeed with families who were already interested in healthy eating and physical fitness.