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Cason G, Margolis A, Barile J, Milanaik RL. Caring for screenagers (Part 1): a pediatrician's primer on popular social media platforms. Curr Opin Pediatr 2024; 36:315-324. [PMID: 38446153 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000001342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Since the inception of social media, children have used platforms in manners unbeknownst to their parents. Just when parents feel they may finally understand what platform is relevant or trend is "in," the landscape evolves, and children shift to something new. It is therefore critical that pediatricians stay informed about what is popular in youth populations. This enables the recognition of the potential dangers of contemporary social media engagement. RECENT FINDINGS Short-form content and livestreaming continue to rise in popularity while certain older forms of social media have retained relevancy in youth circles. YouTube is the dominant social media force, with both livestreaming and short-form offerings. Twitch and TikTok provide alternatives to YouTube for livestreaming and short-form content, respectively. Instagram and Snapchat - two social media apps that have existed for over 10 years - remain as the most popular mechanisms for children to interact with their friends online. SUMMARY Issues related to body image, attention deficits, cyberbullying, and other potential harms have many parents wary of their child's presence on social media. Social media sites have in-place mechanisms to prevent the likelihood of harm, but pediatricians and parents should still counsel children on best social media practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Cason
- Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
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Evans R, Christiansen P, Masterson T, Barlow G, Boyland E. Food and non-alcoholic beverage marketing via Fortnite streamers on Twitch: A content analysis. Appetite 2024; 195:107207. [PMID: 38218416 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Food and non-alcoholic beverage (hereafter: food) marketing is prevalent in digital media and predominantly for foods high in fats, salt and/or sugar (HFSS). However, little is known about food marketing in videogame livestreaming platforms - a hybridisation of social and gaming media where individuals can watch influencers (i.e., streamers) play videogames. No studies have explored food cues within the streamed content or content likely to be viewed by adolescents. The current study analysed the food cues in Twitch (the leading videogame livestreaming platform) videos (n = 52, 52h) uploaded to the platform during October 2020-September 2021 by influencers likely to be popular with adolescents. Food cues (n = 133, 2.56 per hour) were coded for exposure (e.g., display type, healthfulness) and power (e.g., presentation) using a World Health Organization (WHO) protocol and the UK Nutrient Profile Model. The majority (70.7%) of cues were HFSS, with energy drinks being the most featured food category (62.4%). Most cues were branded (80.5%) and featured as either product placement (44.4%) or a looping image (40.6%). Influencers were more likely to consume healthy (88.5%) than HFSS items (33.4%). The mean duration of each food cue was 20 min and 25 s per hour. Only 2.3% of cues had an advertising disclosure. This study provides the first empirical assessment of food cues on Twitch in livestreamed content likely to be popular with adolescents and has implications for digital food marketing policy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Evans
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool L69 7ZA, UK.
| | - Paul Christiansen
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool L69 7ZA, UK
| | - Travis Masterson
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, 226 Henderson, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Georgia Barlow
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool L69 7ZA, UK
| | - Emma Boyland
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool L69 7ZA, UK
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Denniss E, Lindberg R, Marchese LE, McNaughton SA. #Fail: the quality and accuracy of nutrition-related information by influential Australian Instagram accounts. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2024; 21:16. [PMID: 38355567 PMCID: PMC10865719 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-024-01565-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media is a popular source of information about food and nutrition. There is a high degree of inaccurate and poor-quality nutrition-related information present online. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality and accuracy of nutrition-related information posted by popular Australian Instagram accounts and examine trends in quality and accuracy based on author, topic, post engagement, account verification and number of followers. METHODS A sample of posts by Australian Instagram accounts with ≥ 100,000 followers who primarily posted about nutrition was collected between September 2020 and September 2021. Posts containing nutrition-related information were evaluated to determine the quality and accuracy of the information. Quality was assessed using the Principles for Health-Related Information on Social Media tool and accuracy was assessed against information contained in the Australian Dietary Guidelines, Practice-based Evidence in Nutrition database, Nutrient Reference Values and Metafact. RESULTS A total of 676 posts were evaluated for quality and 510 posts for accuracy, originating from 47 Instagram accounts. Overall, 34.8% of posts were classified as being of poor quality, 59.2% mediocre, 6.1% good and no posts were of excellent quality. A total of 44.7% of posts contained inaccuracies. Posts authored by nutritionists or dietitians were associated with higher quality scores (β, 17.8, CI 13.94-21.65; P < 0.001) and higher accuracy scores (OR 4.69, CI 1.81-12.14, P = 0.001) compared to brands and other accounts. Information about supplements was of lower accuracy (OR 0.23, CI 0.10-0.51, P < 0.001) compared to information about weight loss and other nutrition topics. Engagement tended to be higher for posts of lower quality (β -0.59, P = 0.012), as did engagement rate (β -0.57, P = 0.016). There was no relationship between followers or account verification and information quality or accuracy and no relationship between engagement and accuracy. CONCLUSIONS Nutrition-related information published by influential Australian Instagram accounts is often inaccurate and of suboptimal quality. Information about supplements and posts by brand accounts is of the lowest quality and accuracy and information posted by nutritionists and dietitians is of a higher standard. Instagram users are at risk of being misinformed when engaging with Australian Instagram content for information about nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Denniss
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia.
| | - Rebecca Lindberg
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Laura E Marchese
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Sarah A McNaughton
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood, VIC, 3125, Australia
- School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4067, Australia
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Dunford EK, Kelly B, Jones A. Could Google Help Curb Online Advertising of Unhealthy Foods to U.S. Children? Am J Prev Med 2024; 66:64-72. [PMID: 37737788 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2023.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In 2020, Google took voluntary action to restrict food and beverage advertising through its online channels in the European Union/United Kingdom using Google's own nutrient profiling model to identify products eligible to be marketed to children through its Google Display Network. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential impact of the Google policy, if applied to the U.S. market, on restricting online advertising of the top-selling packaged foods and beverages in the U.S. METHODS The top 25 U.S. food and beverage manufacturers were identified. Nutrient data for products from these manufacturers were sourced from Label Insight (a Nielsen IQ company) in 2021. Each product was examined against four nutrient profiling models: the Google nutrient profiling model, the WHO Europe nutrient profiling model, the Pan American Health Organization nutrient profiling model, and the Chilean government nutrient profiling model. RESULTS Under Google's nutrient profiling model, 18% of 14,188 products were eligible to be advertised to children, representing $44 billion in revenue for the top 25 U.S. manufacturers of the >$240 billion generated annually. The Google nutrient profiling model permitted the most products to be advertised to children of all four nutrient profiling models examined. CONCLUSIONS U.S. children engage extensively with online media. In place of government regulation, the Google advertising policy and related nutrient profiling model would limit online advertising of the most unhealthful products to children, if the policy were to be applied to the U.S. market. The effectiveness of the policy would be strengthened by refining the Google nutrient profiling model to better align with nutrient profiling models developed by authoritative health agencies, including the WHO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K Dunford
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; Department of Nutrition, Gillings Global School of Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
| | - Bridget Kelly
- Early Start, School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong Australia, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Alexandra Jones
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Evans RK, Christiansen P, Finlay A, Jones A, Maden M, Boyland E. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of digital game-based or influencer food and non-alcoholic beverage marketing on children and adolescents: Exploring hierarchy of effects outcomes. Obes Rev 2023; 24:e13630. [PMID: 37608618 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Videogame livestreaming platforms are an emerging form of digital media, popular with young people, where users watch gaming influencers play videogames. Food and non-alcoholic beverage (hereafter: food) brands have a substantial presence on these platforms, yet no studies have examined the impact of this food marketing on young people. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the evidence (quantitative or mixed-method) for a relationship between exposure to digital game-based or influencer food marketing, and food-related (brand awareness, attitudes, preferences, purchase, and consumption), and post-consumption (weight, body mass index [BMI], and dental caries) outcomes in young people (≤18 years). Twenty-three databases were searched in March 2021. Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 20 were included in the quantitative synthesis. Meta-analyses indicated food marketing was associated with more positive attitudes and greater preferences (OR = 1.74, p < 0.001 [95%CI: 1.355, 2.232]), and increased consumption (SMD = 0.37, p < 0.001 [95%CI: 0.219, 0.529]). Narrative synthesis indicated that food marketing may increase brand awareness but not pester intent, although data were limited. Evidence suggests that there is a relationship between exposure to food marketing via influencers and digital gaming media, and several food-related outcomes. This is the first quantitative synthesis to demonstrate these relationships; this work has implications for food marketing policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K Evans
- Department of Psychology, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Paul Christiansen
- Department of Psychology, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Amy Finlay
- Department of Psychology, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Andrew Jones
- School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michelle Maden
- Liverpool Reviews and Implementation Group, Institute of Population Health, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Emma Boyland
- Department of Psychology, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Matos JDP, Tobias PB, Baldim L, Horta PM. Food advertising on YouTube channels aimed at children in Brazil. Rev Saude Publica 2023; 57:50. [PMID: 37585949 PMCID: PMC10392772 DOI: 10.11606/s1518-8787.2023057004174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze food advertising on YouTube channels aimed at children in Brazil and the interaction of the public with this type of advertising. METHODS We analyzed the 10 most popular videos from the 25 YouTube most-watched channels with content aimed at children in the country in 2018. The presence of general advertising, food brands and food services was identified. When there was advertising in the videos, the foods and their respective brands were described, the first being classified according to the NOVA system. In cases of advertising of a specific food brand without its product having been displayed or mentioned, the classification was carried out according to the predominance of that company products. The number of visualizations and interactions ("likes" and "dislikes") was also collected. RESULTS General advertising was identified in 45.6% of videos, while food and food service advertising was present in 12.9% and 1.6% of videos, respectively. Food advertisements were mostly represented by ultra-processed products (n = 30; 93.8%). In channels led by Kid YouTubers, there was a higher frequency of general advertising, food and food services in the videos. In these channels, the advertisements of food in general and ultra-processed foods were respectively 2.79 and 2.53 times higher than in videos of channels not led by Kid YouTubers. The number of times videos were tagged "liked" was higher in videos with food advertising (1.67 × 105) compared to videos without food advertising (1.02 × 105), p = 0.0272. CONCLUSION YouTube is a potential medium for children's exposure and interaction with ultra-processed food advertising. The results of this analysis reinforce the importance of enforcing regulations prohibiting children's advertising on this platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana de Paula Matos
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisSchool of MedicineGraduate Program in Health SciencesBelo HorizonteMGBrazilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais. School of Medicine. Graduate Program in Health Sciences. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Polyanna Botrel Tobias
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisSchool of NursingDepartment of NutritionBelo HorizonteMGBrazilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais. School of Nursing. Department of Nutrition. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Lavínia Baldim
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisSchool of NursingDepartment of NutritionBelo HorizonteMGBrazilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais. School of Nursing. Department of Nutrition. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Paula Martins Horta
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisSchool of MedicineGraduate Program in Health SciencesBelo HorizonteMGBrazilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais. School of Medicine. Graduate Program in Health Sciences. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisSchool of NursingDepartment of NutritionBelo HorizonteMGBrazilUniversidade Federal de Minas Gerais. School of Nursing. Department of Nutrition. Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Kim Y, Kim J, Lee B, Jung S, Chung SJ, Kim H, Shin N, Kim Y. Early childhood eating behaviors associated with risk of overweight and its socio-ecological determinants in Korean preschool children. Nutr Res Pract 2023; 17:717-734. [PMID: 37529267 PMCID: PMC10375334 DOI: 10.4162/nrp.2023.17.4.717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES This study aimed to identify preschool children's eating behaviors associated with early childhood obesity and its multi-level, socio-ecological determinants. SUBJECTS/METHODS In a cross-sectional study of 364 mothers of preschool children aged 3-5 years, these children's healthy eating behaviors were assessed using a validated preschool nutrition quotient (NQ-P) questionnaire. The children's overweight or obesity statuses were determined based on body mass index percentiles from the 2017 Korean National Growth Chart. The associations between the NQ-P score and risk of overweight or obesity were examined using multivariable logistic regression. The associations of individual, maternal, physical, and media environmental factors with the NQ-P score were also examined using multivariable linear regression. RESULTS Preschool children with greater NQ-P scores were at a significantly lower risk of overweight or obesity (P < 0.01). The NQ-P score had a significantly positive association with maternal body mass index and an inverse association with household income (all P < 0.05). Maternal parenting and feeding practices exhibited associations with the NQ-P score. Positive associations were observed with "warm," "structured," and "autonomy-supportive" parenting as well as monitoring feeding practices (all P < 0.05). In addition, the NQ-P score had a significantly positive association with the childcare center's anti-obesogenic environment, such as the provision of nutritional and physical-activity support and vicinity of the built food environment to the home, including access to good-quality food, fruits and vegetables, and low-fat foods (all P < 0.05). Regarding media environments, the NQ-P score demonstrated more significant associations with viewing and eating and/or cooking content displayed on online video platforms (all P < 0.05) than with that on television. CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm the significance of healthy eating behaviors in early-childhood-obesity prevention and underscore the importance of multilevel maternal, physical, and media environmental interventions that effectively guide eating behaviors in preschool children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeri Kim
- Department of Nutritional Science & Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Jiye Kim
- Department of Health Convergence, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Bomi Lee
- Department of Child Development & Intervention, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Seungyoun Jung
- Department of Nutritional Science & Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
- Department of Nutritional Science & Food Management, Graduate Program in System Health Science & Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Seo-Jin Chung
- Department of Nutritional Science & Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Hyekyeong Kim
- Department of Health Convergence, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Nana Shin
- Department of Child Development & Intervention, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
| | - Yuri Kim
- Department of Nutritional Science & Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
- Department of Nutritional Science & Food Management, Graduate Program in System Health Science & Engineering, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Korea
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Foubister C, Jago R, Sharp SJ, van Sluijs EMF. Time spent on social media use and BMI z-score: A cross-sectional explanatory pathway analysis of 10798 14-year-old boys and girls. Pediatr Obes 2023; 18:e13017. [PMID: 36890676 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.13017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The association between adolescent time spent on social media use and body mass index z-score (BMI z-score) is unclear. Pathways of association and sex differences are also unclear. This study examined the association between time spent on social media use and BMI z-score (primary objective) and potential explanatory pathways (secondary objective) for boys and girls. METHODS Data are from 5332 girls and 5466 boys aged 14 years in the UK Millennium Cohort Study. BMI z-score was regressed on self-reported time spent on social media use (h/day). Potential explanatory pathways explored included dietary intake, sleep duration, depressive symptoms, cyberbullying, body-weight satisfaction, self-esteem, and well-being. Sex-stratified multivariable linear regression and structural equation modelling were used to examine potential associations and explanatory pathways. RESULTS Using social media for ≥5 h/day (vs. <1 h/day) was positively associated with BMI z-score for girls (β [95% CI]) (0.15 [0.06, 0.25]) (primary objective, multivariable linear regression). For girls, the direct association was attenuated when sleep duration (0.12 [0.02, 0.22]), depressive symptoms (0.12 [0.02, 0.22]), body-weight satisfaction (0.07 [-0.02, 0.16]), and well-being (0.11 [0.01, 0.20]) were included (secondary objective, structural equation modelling). No associations were observed for boys and potential explanatory pathway variables were not examined. CONCLUSIONS In girls, high time spent on social media use (≥5 h/day) was positively associated with BMI z-score, and this association was partially explained by sleep duration, depressive symptoms, body-weight satisfaction, and well-being. Associations and attenuations between a self-reported summary variable of time spent on social media use and BMI z-score were small. Further research should examine whether time spent on social media use is related to other adolescent health metrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Campbell Foubister
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) and MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Russell Jago
- Centre for Exercise, Nutrition & Health Sciences, School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Stephen J Sharp
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) and MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Esther M F van Sluijs
- UKCRC Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) and MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Evans R, Christiansen P, Masterson T, Pollack C, Albadri S, Boyland E. Recall of food marketing on videogame livestreaming platforms: Associations with adolescent diet-related behaviours and health. Appetite 2023; 186:106584. [PMID: 37127245 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Digital media has become an integral part of adolescents' lives. Mirroring this trend, food and non-alcoholic beverage (hereafter: food) brands increasingly promote products in digital media to maximise reach with young consumers. Videogame livestreaming platforms, where individuals can broadcast or watch streamed videogame footage, are a growing form of digital media. The top three platforms (market share by hours watched) are Twitch (72%), YouTube Gaming (13%), and Facebook Gaming Live (9%), with a combined 34.6 billion hours watched in 2021. These platforms represent a hybridisation of two popular digital trends amongst teenagers: viewing online video content and playing videogames. On these platforms, gaming influencers promote food brands and products, with energy drinks and fast-food restaurants representing the most frequently promoted categories. Evidence suggests that food marketing via Twitch is associated with food craving, purchasing and consumption in adults. Yet, despite the evident teenage appeal and prevalence of food marketing on these platforms, research is yet to explore its associations with adolescent eating behaviour. Adolescents (n = 490, Mage = 16.81, 30.2% female) completed an online cross-sectional questionnaire exploring their recall of food marketing on the top three videogame livestreaming platforms, and relevant behavioural (purchase, consumption) and health (Body Mass Index) outcomes. Structural equation modelling was used to explore hierarchical relationships between the key variables. Results showed that recall of unhealthy food marketing on these platforms was significantly associated with purchase and consumption of marketed food categories. Attitudes towards unhealthy foods mediated this relationship. Findings are the first to demonstrate the relationships between unhealthy food marketing via videogame livestreaming platforms and adolescent eating behaviours, which has implications for the design of policies to restrict digital food marketing to young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Evans
- Department of Psychology, The University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool, L69 7ZA, UK.
| | - Paul Christiansen
- Department of Psychology, The University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool, L69 7ZA, UK
| | - Travis Masterson
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, 226 Henderson, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Catherine Pollack
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA
| | - Sondos Albadri
- School of Dentistry, The University of Liverpool, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5PS, UK
| | - Emma Boyland
- Department of Psychology, The University of Liverpool, Eleanor Rathbone Building, Bedford Street South, Liverpool, L69 7ZA, UK
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10
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Fleming-Milici F, Phaneuf L, Harris J. Prevalence of food and beverage brands in "made-for-kids" child-influencer YouTube videos: 2019-2020. Pediatr Obes 2023; 18:e13008. [PMID: 36755375 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.13008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child health experts raise numerous concerns about the negative effects of children's exposure to unhealthy digital food marketing, including advertising and branded product placements on child-oriented videos. OBJECTIVES YouTube banned food advertising on "made-for-kids" channels in 2020, but research is needed to assess food-related appearances on increasingly popular child-influencer videos. METHODS Content analysis examined a sample of videos (n = 400) uploaded in 2019-2020 by popular child-influencers on YouTube "made-for-kids" channels. We identified and coded all branded and non-branded food-related appearances (i.e., food, beverages, restaurants), ads, promotions, and sponsorship disclosures, and compared 2019 to 2020. RESULTS Two-thirds of videos (n = 260) had at least one food-related appearance, including branded product appearances (n = 153), other brand appearances (n = 60), and non-branded food-related appearances (n = 203). Branded products appeared 592 times (M = 3.9/video), including candy brands (42% of appearances) and sweet/salty snacks, sugary drinks, and ice cream (32% combined). Total food-related appearances did not change (2019-2020), but candy brand appearances increased significantly. Videos with non-branded healthy food category appearances also increased, but 70% also showed unhealthy branded and/or unbranded foods. Just one video disclosed a food-brand sponsorship. CONCLUSIONS Additional policies are needed to protect young children from potential exposure to unhealthy branded foods on popular YouTube child-influencer channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Fleming-Milici
- UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health, One Constitution Plaza, University of Connecticut, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lindsay Phaneuf
- UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health, One Constitution Plaza, University of Connecticut, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jennifer Harris
- UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health, One Constitution Plaza, University of Connecticut, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
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Kelly B, Backholer K, Boyland E, Kent MP, Bragg MA, Karupaiah T, Ng S. Contemporary Approaches for Monitoring Food Marketing to Children to Progress Policy Actions. Curr Nutr Rep 2023; 12:14-25. [PMID: 36746878 PMCID: PMC9974707 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-023-00450-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Protecting children from unhealthful food marketing is a global priority policy for improving population diets. Monitoring the nature and extent of children's exposure to this marketing is critical in policy development and implementation. This review summarises contemporary approaches to monitor the nature and extent of food marketing to support policy reform. RECENT FINDINGS Monitoring approaches vary depending on the stage of progress of related policy implementation, with resource implications and opportunity costs. Considerations include priority media/settings. marketing techniques assessed, approach to classifying foods, study design and if exposure assessments are based on media content analyses or are estimated or observed based on children's media use. Current evidence is largely limited to high-income countries and focuses on content analyses of TV advertising. Ongoing efforts are needed to support monitoring in low-resource settings and to progress monitoring to better capture children's actual exposures across media and settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Kelly
- Early Start, School of Health & Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - Kathryn Backholer
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Emma Boyland
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Monique Potvin Kent
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Marie A Bragg
- Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tilakavati Karupaiah
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - SeeHoe Ng
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
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12
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Sherrard A, Vang M, Tan CC. Children's media use and food approach behavior: Associations with temperament and food parenting. Appetite 2023; 182:106444. [PMID: 36592796 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Children's media use has been found to be associated with obesogenic eating and obesity risk. Children's temperament and food parenting have been found to be important factors associated with children's eating behavior. The current study examined whether children's temperament and food parenting moderated the associations between children's media use and children's food approach behaviors. Parents (n = 214) of children between 3- to 5- years old were recruited to complete an online survey. Findings showed that children's temperament (i.e., negative affectivity and effortful control) and food parenting (i.e., coercive control) moderated the relationship between children's media use and children's food approach behavior. The results suggest that children's temperament and food parenting play important roles in understanding the relationship among children's media use and children's eating behavior.
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13
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Tsochantaridou A, Sergentanis TN, Grammatikopoulou MG, Merakou K, Vassilakou T, Kornarou E. Food Advertisement and Dietary Choices in Adolescents: An Overview of Recent Studies. CHILDREN 2023; 10:children10030442. [PMID: 36980000 PMCID: PMC10047133 DOI: 10.3390/children10030442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents are exposed to food marketing through many routes, including television, movies, videos, print media, online games, and social media. The interplay between exposure to unhealthy food advertisements and food choices by adolescents is a field of special interest given the ongoing evolution of social media trends and marketing strategies. The purpose of this review was to synthesize the scientific findings in the last five years (2017–2022) regarding the possible influence of nutrition-related advertisements through television, social media, or video games on the choice and consumption of unhealthy foods and drinks in adolescents. Nineteen studies were included in this review. Adolescents exposed to unhealthy food and beverage advertising showed high desire and intention to consume the advertised foods, as evidenced by the majority of included studies. The effects of advertisements are reinforced by peer pressure and influencers and interact with socioeconomic, biological, and environmental factors. Food marketing represents part of the obesogenic environment of the present time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Tsochantaridou
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 196 Alexandras Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoros N. Sergentanis
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 196 Alexandras Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria G. Grammatikopoulou
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Kyriakoula Merakou
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 196 Alexandras Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Tonia Vassilakou
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 196 Alexandras Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Kornarou
- Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 196 Alexandras Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece
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14
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Matos JDP, Rodrigues MB, Duarte CK, Horta PM. A Scoping Review of Observational Studies on Food and Beverage Advertising on Social Media: A Public Health Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3615. [PMID: 36834312 PMCID: PMC9960697 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Popular social media platforms have been actively used by ultra-processed food companies to promote their products. Being exposed to this type of advertising increases the consumption of unhealthy foods and the risk of developing obesity and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Thus, monitoring commercial content on social media is a core public health practice. We aimed to characterize the methods used for monitoring food advertising on social media and summarize the investigated advertising strategies via a scoping review of observational studies. This study is reported according to the MOOSE Statement, and its protocol was registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration nº. CRD42020187740). Out of the 6093 citations retrieved, 26 met our eligibility criteria. The studies were published from 2014 to 2021, mostly after 2018. They focused on Australia, Facebook, strategies aimed at children and adolescents, and advertising practices of ultra-processed food companies. We grouped strategies in eight classes: post features (n = 18); connectivity and engagement (n = 18); economic advantages, gifts, or competitions (n = 14); claims (n = 14); promotional characters (n = 12); brand in evidence (n = 8); corporate social responsibility or philanthropy (n = 7); and COVID-19 (n = 3). We found similarities in the investigation of strategies regardless of the type of social media. Our findings can contribute to the designing of tools for monitoring studies and regulatory mechanisms to restrict the exposure of food advertising.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Paula Martins Horta
- Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30130-100, MG, Brazil
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15
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Potvin Kent M, Pauzé E, Remedios L, Wu D, Soares Guimaraes J, Pinto A, Bagnato M, Pritchard M, L’Abbé M, Mulligan C, Vergeer L, Weippert M. Advertising expenditures on child-targeted food and beverage products in two policy environments in Canada in 2016 and 2019. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279275. [PMID: 36630326 PMCID: PMC9833551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The food industry advertises unhealthy foods intended for children which in turn fosters poor diets. This study characterized advertising expenditures on child-targeted products in Canada and compared these expenditures between Quebec, where commercial advertising to children under 13 is restricted, and the rest of Canada, where food advertising to children is self-regulated. METHODS Advertising expenditures data for 2016 and 2019 for 57 select food categories and five media channels were licensed from Numerator. Products and brands targeted to children were identified based on their nature and the advertising techniques used to promote them. Advertising expenditures were classified as healthy/unhealthy using Health Canada's nutrient profile model. Expenditures per child capita aged 2-12 years were calculated and expenditures from 2016 were adjusted for inflation. Advertising expenditures were described by media, food category, year, and geographic region. RESULTS Overall, $57.2 million CAD was spent advertising child-targeted products in Canada in 2019. Television accounted for 77% of expenditures followed by digital media (18%), and the food categories with the highest expenditures were candy/chocolate (30%) and restaurants (16%). The totality of expenditures (99.9%-100%) in both Quebec and the rest of Canada in 2016 and 2019 were considered 'unhealthy'. Across all media channels (excluding digital), advertising expenditures were 9% lower in 2019 versus 2016. Advertising expenditures per capita were 32% lower in Quebec ($9.40/capita) compared to the rest of the country ($13.91/capita). CONCLUSION In Canada, millions are spent promoting child-targeted products considered inappropriate for advertising to children. While per capita advertising expenditures for these products are lower in Quebec compared to the rest of Canada, they remain high, suggesting that Quebec's commercial advertising restrictions directed to children are likely not sufficiently protecting them from unhealthy food advertising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Potvin Kent
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Elise Pauzé
- School of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Lauren Remedios
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David Wu
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julia Soares Guimaraes
- School of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Adena Pinto
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Mariangela Bagnato
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Meghan Pritchard
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Mary L’Abbé
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Christine Mulligan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Laura Vergeer
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Madyson Weippert
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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16
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Tsai KA, Pan P, Liang C, Stent-Torriani A, Prat L, Cassidy O, Pomeranz JL, Bragg MA. Food and Beverage Product Appearances in Educational, Child-Targeted YouTube Videos. Child Obes 2022; 18:515-522. [PMID: 35263190 DOI: 10.1089/chi.2021.0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Background: Food advertisement exposure is associated with children's increased caloric intake, but little is known about food/beverage placements in child-oriented educational YouTube videos. We aimed to quantify the prevalence of food/beverages in these videos and assess their nutritional quality. Methods: Researchers identified child-oriented educational YouTube videos from 2020, using keyword searches. We coded the names of featured food/beverages, coded how the food/beverages were interacted with, quantified the number of minutes the food/beverages appeared, and assessed the nutritional quality of the food/beverages. Results: A sample of 400 videos with the highest number of views was identified, 165 of which featured food/beverages. These 165 videos were collectively viewed over 1.1 billion times. Among these videos, 108 (67.4%) featured unhealthy foods and 86 (52.1%) featured branded products. Most food/beverages were used in experiment/tutorials (n = 143, 86.7%). Of the 165 videos featuring food/beverages, 91 (55.2%) did not depict food/beverages in their video thumbnail. Conclusions: While unhealthy food/beverages appear frequently in child-oriented educational YouTube videos, parents and teachers may not be aware of the presence of branded food/beverage products in these videos that could influence their children's food and brand preferences. The Federal Trade Commission should collect data on food and beverage company sponsorship of educational videos aimed at children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystle A Tsai
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pamela Pan
- NYU School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cheryl Liang
- NYU School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Lulu Prat
- NYU School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Omni Cassidy
- NYU School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Marie A Bragg
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,NYU School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, USA
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17
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Meléndez-Illanes L, González-Díaz C, Álvarez-Dardet C. Advertising of foods and beverages in social media aimed at children: high exposure and low control. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1795. [PMID: 36138364 PMCID: PMC9494888 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14196-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This work is aimed to describe the recent scientific literature developed in the food/beverage sector and social networks aimed at children and adolescents, as well as current regulations. Methods A rapid review of the studies on advertising and social media aimed at children, published from 2010 tp 2020 is carried out, following the established inclusion criteria. In addition, the regulations in the countries in which the studies were carried out were also reviewed. Results Of the 573 articles, 7 met these criteria. The great attraction of unhealthy foods for children is observed, who remembered and recognized a greater number of unhealthy food brands and, by extension, the ability to influence of communication in social networks. Each country has its own self-regulation, two (Ireland and USA) have legislation on children’s food advertising, and Australia has legislation that applies only to open television. However, none of the analyzed countries have specific regulations on food, children and media advertising. Conclusions Given the fact that there is evidence about the great attraction that social networks suppose for the child, that they are a stimulus for the consumption of food and that many of these foods are harmful to their health; we should work in two directions: 1) Promote public policies based on promoting healthy habits among minors; and 2) Monitor and implement regulations in commercial communication social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Meléndez-Illanes
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile. .,Communication, Food and Consumption Research Group (FOODCO), Alicante, Spain.
| | - Cristina González-Díaz
- Communication, Food and Consumption Research Group (FOODCO), Alicante, Spain.,Department of Communication and Social Psychology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Carlos Álvarez-Dardet
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain.,Public Health Research Group, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain.,Biomedical Research Center in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
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18
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Winzer E, Naderer B, Klein S, Lercher L, Wakolbinger M. Promotion of Food and Beverages by German-Speaking Influencers Popular with Adolescents on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191710911. [PMID: 36078625 PMCID: PMC9518047 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The promotion of nutritionally poor food and beverages (F&B) has a proven effect on children's eating preferences and, therefore, plays a significant role in today's childhood obesity epidemic. This study's objective was to assess the prevalence (exposure) and context (power) of the F&B cues in influencer content across three platforms: TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. The selected influencers were popular with adolescents, with a combined total of more than 34 million followers/subscribers. We employed the YouTube Influencer Marketing Protocol from the World Health Organization (WHO) as our basis for coding. We analysed a total of 360 videos/posts and, of these, 24% contained F&B cues, which is equivalent to 18.1 F&B cues/hour. In total, 77% of the cues were not permitted for children's advertising, according to WHO criteria, and this was stable across all platforms, with chocolate and sugary confectionery (23%) as the most frequently featured products. Not-permitted F&B had a four-times higher chance of being branded, a five-times higher chance of being described positively, and received significantly more 'likes'. In 62% of the analysed presentations, the branded product was mentioned, yet only 6% of the content was labelled as advertising. The present analysis delivers further grounds for discussion for policies and regulations of influencer marketing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Winzer
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Brigitte Naderer
- Department of Media & Communication, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Simeon Klein
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Leah Lercher
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Wakolbinger
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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19
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Bozzola E, Spina G, Agostiniani R, Barni S, Russo R, Scarpato E, Di Mauro A, Di Stefano AV, Caruso C, Corsello G, Staiano A. The Use of Social Media in Children and Adolescents: Scoping Review on the Potential Risks. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19169960. [PMID: 36011593 PMCID: PMC9407706 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19169960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, social media has become part of our lives, even among children. From the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic period, media device and Internet access rapidly increased. Adolescents connected Internet alone, consulting social media, mostly Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. During "lockdown", the Internet usage allowed communication with peers and the continuity activities such as school teaching. However, we have to keep in mind that media usage may be related to some adverse consequences especially in the most vulnerable people, such as the young. Aim of the review is to focus on risks correlated to social media use by children and adolescents, identifying spies of rising problems and engaging in preventive recommendations. The scoping review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines, searching on PubMed the terms "social media" or "social network", "health", and "pediatrics". Excluding articles not pertinent, we found 68 reports. Out of them, 19 were dealing with depression, 15 with diet, and 15 with psychological problems, which appeared to be the most reported risk of social media use. Other identified associated problems were sleep, addiction, anxiety, sex related issues, behavioral problems, body image, physical activity, online grooming, sight, headache, and dental caries. Public and medical awareness must rise over this topic and new prevention measures must be found, starting with health practitioners, caregivers, and websites/application developers. Pediatricians should be aware of the risks associated to a problematic social media use for the young's health and identify sentinel signs in children as well as prevent negative outcomes in accordance with the family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bozzola
- Pediatric Unit, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00100 Rome, Italy
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Spina
- Pediatric Unit, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00100 Rome, Italy
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Rino Agostiniani
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, San Jacopo Hospital, 51100 Pistoia, Italy
| | - Sarah Barni
- Pediatric Unit, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00100 Rome, Italy
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Russo
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Scarpato
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences-Section of Pediatric, University Federico II, 80100 Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Giovanni Corsello
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90100 Palermo, Italy
| | - Annamaria Staiano
- The Italian Pediatric Society, 00100 Rome, Italy
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences-Section of Pediatric, University Federico II, 80100 Naples, Italy
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20
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Demers-Potvin É, White M, Potvin Kent M, Nieto C, White CM, Zheng X, Hammond D, Vanderlee L. Adolescents' media usage and self-reported exposure to advertising across six countries: implications for less healthy food and beverage marketing. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058913. [PMID: 35589343 PMCID: PMC9121490 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study objectives were to examine: (1) adolescents' media viewing habits, (2) associations with media viewing and self-reported exposure to unhealthy food and beverage advertising and (3) differences in trends among younger and older adolescents in six high and upper middle-income countries. DESIGN Repeat cross-sectional online survey. SETTING Australia, Canada, Chile, Mexico, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States of America (USA). PARTICIPANTS Respondents to the International Food Policy Study who provided information on all variables of interest in November-December 2019 aged 10-17 years (n=9171). OUTCOME MEASURES Self-reported exposure to screen-based media (screen time by media channel), use of social media platforms and self-reported location and frequency of exposure to unhealthy food and beverage advertising. RESULTS The average amount of time spent in front of various screens ranged from 7.6 hours to 10.2 hours across countries per week day, which may include possible viewing of multiple media channels simultaneously. Overall, Instagram was the most popular social media platform (52%-68% by country), followed by Facebook (42%-79%) and Snapchat (28%-52%). The percentage of respondents who self-reported having seen unhealthy food advertisements in the past 30 days was highest on television (43%-69%), followed by digital media (27%-60%) and gaming applications (10%-17%). Self-reported daily exposure to advertising varied between countries for sugary drinks (10%-43%) and fast food (19%-44%) and was positively associated with self-reported screen time. Self-reported exposure to screen-based media and social media platforms differed by sociodemographic characteristics and was higher among older adolescents than younger adolescents. CONCLUSIONS The important amount of time spent on screen-based media reported by adolescents and large percentage of adolescents reporting social media usage, coupled with high rates of self-reported advertising exposure, support the need for policies to restrict marketing of unhealthy food and beverages appealing to adolescents on screen-based media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Élisabeth Demers-Potvin
- École de nutrition, Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martin White
- Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR), MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Monique Potvin Kent
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Claudia Nieto
- Center for Health and Nutrition Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Christine M White
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xueying Zheng
- Health Education East of England, St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Prescot, Merseyside, UK
| | - David Hammond
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lana Vanderlee
- École de nutrition, Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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21
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Al-Jawaldeh A, Jabbour J. Marketing of Food and Beverages to Children in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: A Situational Analysis of the Regulatory Framework. Front Nutr 2022; 9:868937. [PMID: 35662943 PMCID: PMC9158545 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.868937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Marketing of food items high in added saturated and/or trans-fat, sugar, or sodium (HFSS) negatively affect consumption patterns of young children. The World Health Organization (WHO) advised countries to regulate the marketing of foods and non-alcoholic beverages to young populations. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a situational analysis of the regulatory framework of food marketing policies targeting children in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). A semi structured questionnaire was shared with the focal points of EMR member states inquiring about the reforms and monitoring initiatives in place. Electronic databases were searched for relevant publications between 2005 and 2021. Results revealed that even though 68% of countries discussed the recommendations, progress toward the WHO set goals has been slow with only 14% of countries implementing any kind of restrictions and none executing a comprehensive approach. Reforms have focused on local television and radio marketing and left out several loopholes related to marketing on the internet, mobile applications, and cross border marketing. Recent monitoring initiatives revealed a slight improvement in the content of advertised material. Yet, unhealthy products are the most promoted in the region. This review identified the need to intensify the efforts to legislate comprehensive food marketing policies within and across EMR countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
- Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, World Health Organization, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Jana Jabbour
- Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, World Health Organization, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Nutrition, School of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business and Sciences, Beirut, Lebanon
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22
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De Jans S, Hudders L, Naderer B, De Pauw V. Impact of Thin-Ideals in Influencer Posts Promoting Healthy vs. Unhealthy Foods on Tweens' Healthy Food Choice Behavior. Front Psychol 2022; 13:789069. [PMID: 35478748 PMCID: PMC9037281 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.789069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study examines how social media influencers can be deployed to promote healthy food choice behavior among tweens. In particular, we investigated whether tweens' healthy food choice behavior can be stimulated by using a thin-ideal influencer in a sponsored influencer post promoting unhealthy vs. healthy food. A two-by-two, between-subjects experimental study (influencer weight: thin-ideal vs. overweight; snack-type: unhealthy vs. healthy) was conducted with 146 tweens (11-13 years old, 73 boys). Results show that tweens' choice for a healthy snack was higher when a (female) overweight influencer promoted an unhealthy snack (compared to a healthy snack). Using a thin-ideal influencer promoting an unhealthy vs. healthy snack did not affect tweens' healthy food choices. While there were no interaction effects of influencer weight and snack type on source effects (influencer credibility, influencer admiration, and trans-parasocial interactions), the results did show that the influencer was perceived as less credible and was admired less when she was overweight vs. when she had a thin-ideal body-type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffi De Jans
- Department of Communication Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Liselot Hudders
- Department of Communication Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Brigitte Naderer
- Department of Media and Communication, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, Munich, Germany
| | - Valentina De Pauw
- Department of Communication Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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23
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Ellithorpe ME, Zeldes G, Hall ED, Chavez M, Takahashi B, Bleakley A, Plasencia J. I'm Lovin' It: How Fast Food Advertising Influences Meat-Eating Preferences. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022; 27:141-151. [PMID: 35492015 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2022.2068701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Overconsumption of red and processed meat is associated with a multitude of negative health outcomes. Previous research shows exposure to advertising messaging can influence dietary behaviors but research on the influence of meat advertising on diet, specifically, is scant. Theoretically informed by the Reasoned Action Approach, the present experiment randomly assigned participants to view a version of a print McDonald's advertisement that included meat imagery (a Big Mac), non-meat imagery (French fries), or no food (just the McDonalds' logo and slogan), which acted as a control. An online survey in the United States included 514 U.S. adults (Mage = 51 years). Participants exposed to meat imagery compared to the non-meat imagery reported a higher desire to eat meat. The meat imagery and control conditions were also significantly associated with increased cognitive accessibility of meat concepts, compared to when respondents were shown the no-meat condition. Desire to eat meat, but not the cognitive accessibility of meat concepts, was significantly associated with attitude, normative pressure, and perceived behavioral control for avoiding eating meat one day per week; these constructs predicted intention and willingness to avoid meat. Results indicate that exposure to meat imagery in advertising does have the potential to influence meat consumption behavior and also has implications for the use of meat imagery in persuasive messaging for public health campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Geraldine Zeldes
- School of Journalism, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Manuel Chavez
- School of Journalism, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Bruno Takahashi
- School of Journalism, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Amy Bleakley
- Department of Communication, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Julie Plasencia
- Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Jensen ML, Dillman Carpentier FR, Corvalán C, Popkin BM, Evenson KR, Adair L, Taillie LS. Television viewing and using screens while eating: Associations with dietary intake in children and adolescents. Appetite 2022; 168:105670. [PMID: 34478756 PMCID: PMC8671257 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Screen time has been associated with overweight and obesity, as well as with poorer dietary quality. However, the reasons explaining these associations are not well understood. The objectives of this cross-sectional study were [1] to determine the extent of overall TV viewing as well as using screens while eating (e.g., watching TV or using a tablet), [2] to compare food and nutrient consumption of on-versus off-screen eating occasions, and [3] to determine whether TV viewing and using screens while eating is associated with overall dietary intake. Participants were from the Food Environment Chilean Cohort (n = 938, 4-6 y) and the Growth and Obesity Cohort Study (n = 752, 12-14 y). Dietary data was collected via one 24-h food recall. For each eating occasion, activity performed during consumption (e.g., watching TV, playing sports) was reported. Weekly TV viewing time was collected via an additional survey instrument. Analyses included multivariable linear and logistic regression. Post-hoc pairwise comparisons examined differences in outcomes by tertiles. Our sample reported a median of 9-13.5 weekly hours of TV viewing and 87.5% reported consuming at least one meal or snack per day while using screens. The median kilocalories contributed by eating during screen use was 387 kcal/d in children and 848 kcal/day in adolescents, which represents 34.7% and 42.3% of daily energy intake, respectively. There were no consistent differences when comparing eating occasions consumed on-screen versus off-screen. Higher weekly TV viewing was associated with elements of a less healthy diet including more sweets and desserts in children, and more sugar sweetened beverages in adolescents. A large percentage of Chilean children and adolescents' daily energy is consumed while using screens. In depth, longitudinal work is needed to understand how screen time eating affects diet quality and nutritional status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L Jensen
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Global Food Research Program, Carolina Population Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; School of Nutrition, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | | | - Camila Corvalán
- Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de Alimentos, Universidad de Chile, Macul, Chile
| | - Barry M Popkin
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Global Food Research Program, Carolina Population Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Linda Adair
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lindsey Smith Taillie
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Global Food Research Program, Carolina Population Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Rothpletz-Puglia P, Fredericks L, Dreker MR, Patusco R, Ziegler J. Position of the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior: Healthful Food for Children is the Same as Adults. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 54:4-11. [PMID: 35000680 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2021.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Margaret Rush Dreker
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Interprofessional Health Sciences Library, Nutley, NJ
| | | | - Jane Ziegler
- Department of Clinical and Preventive Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Professions, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ
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da Silva JM, Matos JDP, Rodrigues MB, Mais LA, Claro RM, Horta PM. Advertising patterns of a fast-food chain on social media in Brazil. Public Health Nutr 2021; 25:1-8. [PMID: 34937603 PMCID: PMC9991549 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980021004973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the advertising patterns on the posts of a fast-food chain in Brazil on three social media platforms in 2019. DESIGN An exploratory cross-sectional study. SETTING Advertising strategies on the posts of a major fast-food chain on their official Facebook, Instagram and YouTube accounts. The strategies were investigated according to the INFORMAS protocol for food promotion monitoring. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify advertising patterns in each platform. PARTICIPANTS 305 advertisements. RESULTS Four advertising patterns were identified in the PCA of Facebook and Instagram. In both platforms, the components for kids and product exaltation were similar. On Facebook, a pattern corresponding to economic appeal was identified as price and discount, while on Instagram, this pattern also included a practical approach. On Facebook, the fourth component was named celebrity, while on Instagram it was celebrity/innovation since on this second social media the component also included the 'new brand development' variable. On YouTube, three advertising patterns were identified in PCA. Similar to the other platforms, the first and the second patterns were called for kids and price and discount, and the third component referred to both celebrity and commemorative dates. CONCLUSIONS The advertising patterns of the fast-food chain on three social media platforms were commonly directed to children and addressed price, discounts and the celebrities' universe. The findings of this study corroborate other data in the literature regarding unhealthy food advertising on social media. This study discusses the urgency of regulating food advertising content on this medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Moreira da Silva
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Professor Alfredo Balena 190, Belo Horizonte30130-100, Brazil
| | - Juliana de Paula Matos
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Professor Alfredo Balena 190, Belo Horizonte30130-100, Brazil
| | - Michele Bittencourt Rodrigues
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Professor Alfredo Balena 190, Belo Horizonte30130-100, Brazil
| | - Laís Amaral Mais
- Instituto Brasileiro de Defesa do Consumidor (IDEC), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Moreira Claro
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Professor Alfredo Balena 190, Belo Horizonte30130-100, Brazil
| | - Paula Martins Horta
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Avenida Professor Alfredo Balena 190, Belo Horizonte30130-100, Brazil
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Silva JMD, Rodrigues MB, Matos JDP, Mais LA, Martins APB, Claro RM, Horta PM. Use of persuasive strategies in food advertising on television and on social media in Brazil. Prev Med Rep 2021; 24:101520. [PMID: 34976602 PMCID: PMC8683935 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We analyzed the use of persuasive advertising strategies by 18 food brands on TV and Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube in Brazil in April 2018. Advertising strategies were investigated from three groups: power of advertising strategies (n = 10) (e.g., use of licensed character, celebrities, awards, etc), use of the prize offering (n = 9) (e.g., pay 2 take 3 or more, gifts or collectable, limited edition, etc), and use of brand benefit claims (n = 8) (e.g., messages that exalt sensory-based characteristics such as flavor, taste, aroma and recommend how to use/consume the product, etc). Almost 90% of the brands were ultra-processed foods producers and they carried 52 ads on TV and 194 posts on social media platforms. A higher frequency of the strategy ‘cartoon/company owned character’ was found on TV ads (19.2%; p < 0.0001) in comparison to social media platforms (0% on the three platforms) while the presence of ‘famous sportsperson/team’ prevailed on YouTube (41.4%) in comparison to TV (19.2%), Facebook (10.9%) and Instagram (9.1%), p < 0.0001. On YouTube ads, the claims ‘sensory-based characteristics’ (86.2%), ‘suggested use’ (51.7%), and ‘emotive claims’ (31.0%) were more commonly seen in comparison to the other media, while the claims about ‘new brand developments’ (23.1%), ‘price’ (9.6%) and ‘suggesting to children and the whole family to use the advertised product’ (21.1%) prevailed on TV. Ultra-processed food brands are the main food companies that advertise on Brazilian TV and social media and the message transmitted by these brands varies in each media according to the advertising strategies that are used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Moreira da Silva
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130-100, Brazil
| | | | - Juliana de Paula Matos
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Lais Amaral Mais
- Instituto Brasileiro de Defesa do Consumidor, São Paulo, 05002-000, Brazil
- Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, 01246-904, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael Moreira Claro
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Paula Martins Horta
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130-100, Brazil
- Corresponding author at: Av. Alfredo Balena 190, 30130-100, Escola de Enfermagem, 3° andar, sala 312, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Tatlow-Golden M, Jewell J, Zhiteneva O, Wickramasinghe K, Breda J, Boyland E. Rising to the challenge: Introducing protocols to monitor food marketing to children from the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe. Obes Rev 2021; 22 Suppl 6:e13212. [PMID: 34184400 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Unhealthy marketing has been unequivocally linked to children's food preferences, requests, purchases and eating behaviors and hence to childhood obesity. Regulating children's exposure to such marketing has been identified as a key challenge to which States must rise. Regulation mandates the need for monitoring and hence for credible data that are comparable between countries, regions and across time. However, there are major challenges presented by the complexity of the digital marketing ecosystem including the personalized targeting with persuasive, exploitative advertising to which children are subject. This narrative review identifies challenges faced by researchers in the digital ecosystem; reviews recent papers attempting to address these and specifies benefits and limitations; and introduces a set of WHO protocols with templates and guidance for studies of food marketing to children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mimi Tatlow-Golden
- Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Jo Jewell
- World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Olga Zhiteneva
- World Health Organization (WHO) European Office for Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Kremlin Wickramasinghe
- World Health Organization (WHO) European Office for Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - João Breda
- World Health Organization (WHO) European Office for Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Emma Boyland
- Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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The predictive value of evaluative bias, attentional bias, approach bias, and self-regulatory control in soft drink consumption. Appetite 2021; 168:105771. [PMID: 34688729 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Global consumption of soft drinks has increased rapidly over the past 50 years, making this a major public health problem. Guided by dual-process models, the present study aimed to provide a comprehensive investigation of the roles of cognitive biases (evaluative, attentional, and approach biases) and self-regulatory control in soft drink consumption and choice. Participants were 128 undergraduate students (17-25 years). They completed computer-based measures of the three biases (Implicit Association Task, Dot Probe Task, and Approach Avoidance Task) and self-regulatory control (Go/no-go Task). Soft drink consumption and choice were measured using a taste test and a take home beverage choice task, respectively. Evaluative bias for soft drink cues was positively associated with the amount of soft drink consumed. Self-regulatory control was negatively correlated with amount of soft drink consumed, but only for men. There was no interaction between cognitive biases and self-regulatory control in predicting soft drink consumption or choice. Nonetheless, the results support the application of dual-process models to soft drink consumption in that automatic (evaluative bias) and controlled processes (self-regulatory control) each predicted amount of soft drink consumed, albeit independently and only for certain individuals. Future research should extend these findings to habitual soft drink consumers and to individuals who actively wish to limit their soft drink intake.
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Martínez-Pastor E, Vizcaíno-Laorga R, Atauri-Mezquida D. Health-related food advertising on kid YouTuber vlogger channels. Heliyon 2021; 7:e08178. [PMID: 34746464 PMCID: PMC8551517 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This article seeks to identify the presence of food products on channels featuring kid YouTuber vloggers (or 'kidfluencers') aged under 14 years old in Spain, the United States and the United Kingdom, to determine if they are encouraging a healthy diet. Content analysis was performed on a sample of 450 videos (6750 min) posted within a three-year time span. The results show that, with regard to the foods present in the videos, those most commonly present (71%) are non-essential and unhealthy foods and the United States is the country with the highest percentage of non-essential and unhealthy foods, followed by the United Kingdom and Spain. The channels in Spain show a higher number of healthy foods compared to the rest (N = 11). The results suggest a relationship between consumer habits and what kid vloggers reflect in their channels.
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How food companies use social media to influence policy debates: a framework of Australian ultra-processed food industry Twitter data. Public Health Nutr 2021; 24:3124-3135. [PMID: 33222709 PMCID: PMC9884788 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980020003353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand if, and how, Australian ultra-processed food industry actors use Twitter to influence food and health policy debates and produce a conceptual framework to describe such influence. DESIGN Twitter data of prominent industry actors were defined through purposive sampling and inductively coded to investigate possible influence on food and health policy debates. These are described using descriptive statistics and coded extracts. SETTING Australia. PARTICIPANTS Twitter accounts of nine prominent ultra-processed food industry actors, including major trade associations. RESULTS Ultra-processed food industry actors actively used Twitter to influence food and health policy debates. Seven overarching strategies were identified: co-opting public health narratives; opposing regulation; supporting voluntary, co- or self-regulation; engaging policy processes and decision-makers; linking regulatory environments to the need for ongoing profitability; affecting public perceptions and value judgements; and using ignorance claims to distort policy narratives. Each lobbying strategy is underpinned with tactics described throughout and captured in a framework. CONCLUSIONS The current study creates a framework to monitor how food industry actors can use social media to influence food and health policy debates. As such, social media appears to be not only an important commercial determinant of health for brand marketing, but also an extension of lobbying practices to reshape public perceptions of corporate conduct and policy-making.
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Jensen ML, Carpentier FD, Adair L, Corvalán C, Popkin BM, Taillie LS. Examining Chile's unique food marketing policy: TV advertising and dietary intake in preschool children, a pre- and post- policy study. Pediatr Obes 2021; 16:e12735. [PMID: 33105522 PMCID: PMC8073213 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.12735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Chilean government implemented the first phase of a comprehensive marketing policy in 2016, restricting child-directed marketing of products high in energy, total sugars, sodium or saturated fat (hereafter "high-in"). OBJECTIVES To examine the role that high-in TV food advertising had in the effect of the policy on consumption of high-in products between 2016 and 2017. METHODS Dietary data were obtained from 24-hour diet recall measured in 2016 (n = 940) and 2017 (n = 853), pre- and post-policy, from a cohort of 4 to 6 years children. Television use was linked to analyses of food advertisements to derive individual-level estimates of exposure to advertising. A multilevel mediation analysis examined direct and indirect effects of the policy through advertising exposure. RESULTS Children's high-in food consumption and advertising exposure declined significantly from 2016 to 2017 (P < .01). Consumption changes were not significantly mediated by changes in advertising exposure, which might suggest other elements of the Chilean Law potentially driving decreases in consumption to a greater extent than TV ads. CONCLUSIONS Preschoolers' exposure to high-in advertising and consumption of high-in products decreased post-policy. Further research is needed to understand how marketing changes will relate to dietary changes after full implementation of the law and in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L. Jensen
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Global Food Research Program, Carolina Population Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- School of Nutrition, University of Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | | | - Linda Adair
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Camila Corvalán
- Instituto de Nutrición y Tecnología de Alimentos, Universidad de Chile, Macul, Chile
| | - Barry M. Popkin
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Global Food Research Program, Carolina Population Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lindsey Smith Taillie
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Global Food Research Program, Carolina Population Center, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Ventura V, Cavaliere A, Iannò B. #Socialfood: Virtuous or vicious? A systematic review. Trends Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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De Jans S, Spielvogel I, Naderer B, Hudders L. Digital food marketing to children: How an influencer's lifestyle can stimulate healthy food choices among children. Appetite 2021; 162:105182. [PMID: 33667499 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
While influencer marketing has been shown to be effective at promoting food low in nutritional value among children, it is less clear whether influencers can also be used to promote healthy nutrition. This article reports on the results of an experimental study on whether and how influencer marketing on Instagram can be deployed to stimulate healthy eating behavior among children. In particular, the study examines whether signaling a healthy, athletic lifestyle can affect children's healthy snack choice (i.e., choice of a snack high in nutritional value). To do so, a two (influencer lifestyle: sedentary versus athletic) by two (snack type: low in nutritional value versus high in nutritional value) between-subjects experiment was conducted among 190 children between eight and 12 years. The results show that promoting a sedentary lifestyle (compared to an athletic lifestyle) resulted in more children choosing the product high in nutritional value. In addition, the children chose a healthy snack more frequently when an influencer portraying a sedentary lifestyle (compared to an athletic lifestyle) promoted a product low in nutritional value. There were no significant interaction effects of influencer lifestyle and snack type on the evaluation of the influencer. However, the study did show that there was less admiration for the influencer when they portrayed a sedentary lifestyle versus an athletic lifestyle.
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Sigala DM, Stanhope KL. An Exploration of the Role of Sugar-Sweetened Beverage in Promoting Obesity and Health Disparities. Curr Obes Rep 2021; 10:39-52. [PMID: 33411311 PMCID: PMC7788552 DOI: 10.1007/s13679-020-00421-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The mechanistic role of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) in the etiology of obesity is undetermined. We address whether, compared to other foods, does consumption of SSB (1) automatically lead to failure to compensate for the energy it contains? (2) fail to elicit homeostatic hormone responses? (3) promote hedonic eating through activation of the brain's reward pathways? We followed the evidence to address: (4) Would restriction of targeted marketing of SSB and other unhealthy foods to vulnerable populations decrease their prevalence of obesity? RECENT FINDINGS The data are lacking to demonstrate that SSB consumption promotes body weight gain compared with isocaloric consumption of other beverages or foods and that this is linked to its failure to elicit adequate homeostatic hormone responses. However, more recent data have linked body weight gain to reward activation in the brain to palatable food cues and suggest that sweet tastes and SSB consumption heightens the reward response to food cues. Studies investigating the specificity of these responses have not been conducted. Nevertheless, the current data provide a biological basis to the body of evidence demonstrating that the targeted marketing (real life palatable food cues) of SSB and other unhealthy foods to vulnerable populations, including children and people of color and low socioeconomic status, is increasing their risk for obesity. While the mechanisms for the association between SSB consumption and body weight gain cannot be identified, current scientific evidence strongly suggests that proactive environmental measures to reduce exposure to palatable food cues in the form of targeting marketing will decrease the risk of obesity in vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree M. Sigala
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California (UC), Davis, 2211 VM3B, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Kimber L. Stanhope
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California (UC), Davis, 2211 VM3B, Davis, CA 95616 USA
- Basic Sciences, Touro University of California, Vallejo, CA USA
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Feng Y, Lieberman VM, Jung J, Harris LJ. Growth and Survival of Foodborne Pathogens during Soaking and Drying of Almond (Prunus dulcis) Kernels. J Food Prot 2020; 83:2122-2133. [PMID: 32678880 DOI: 10.4315/jfp-20-169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The practice of soaking almonds prior to consumption is popular both commercially and at home. The food safety implications of soaking almonds was investigated through analysis of blogs and videos (n = 85 recipes) to identify both the reasons for soaking almonds and the common practices employed. Among the recipes analyzed, the most common reasons for soaking almonds (94.1%) were perceived benefits such as improved digestion and nutrient uptake. Most recipes (34.1%) suggested soaking at "room temperature" for times that ranged from 4 to 24 h or, more commonly, "overnight" (51.8%). Postsoaking drying instructions were provided in 40 recipes (47.1%). Among those providing a drying temperature (31.8%), 85% specified 66°C and lower. To evaluate the growth of foodborne pathogens during almond soaking, separate cocktails of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella enterica were inoculated onto raw almonds or into the soak water (almonds-to-water ratios of 1:1 and 1:3 [w/v]). Populations were monitored during soaking at 15, 18, and 23°C for up to 24 h, and during postsoak drying at 66°C for 14 h (for Salmonella only). At 15°C and a 1:1 almond:water ratio, no significant population increase (P > 0.05) was observed between 0 and 24 h for any of the pathogens. At 18°C, increases of 0.63, 1.70, and 0.88 log CFU per sample were observed over 24 h for populations of E. coli O157:H7, L. monocytogenes, and Salmonella, respectively. Populations of E. coli O157:H7, L. monocytogenes, and Salmonella increased by 3.48, 3.22, and 3.94 log CFU per sample, respectively, after 24 h at 23°C. When soaked almonds were dried for 14 h at 66°C, moisture and water activity decreased from 40 to ∼6% and 0.99 to 0.60, respectively, but no significant reduction in Salmonella populations was observed. Recommendations for using shorter times (<8 h) and cooler temperatures (≤15°C) should reduce the potential for foodborne pathogens, if present, to grow during soaking of almonds. HIGHLIGHTS
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaohua Feng
- Department of Food Science, Purdue University, 745 Agriculture Mall Drive, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907 (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3012-1930 [Y.F.])
| | - Vanessa M Lieberman
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616-8598, USA.,ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7531-9126 [V.M.L.]
| | - Jiin Jung
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616-8598, USA.,https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7004-7571 [J.J.]
| | - Linda J Harris
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616-8598, USA.,Western Center for Food Safety, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616-8598, USA https://orcid/org/0000-0002-1911-752X [L.J.H.])
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Food Marketing as a Special Ingredient in Consumer Choices: The Main Insights from Existing Literature. Foods 2020; 9:foods9111651. [PMID: 33198136 PMCID: PMC7698179 DOI: 10.3390/foods9111651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The choices and preferences of food consumers are influenced by several factors, from those related to the socioeconomic, cultural, and health dimensions to marketing strategies. In fact, marketing is a determinant ingredient in the choices related to food consumption. Nonetheless, for an effective implementation of any marketing approach, the brands play a crucial role. Creating new brands in the food sector is not always easy, considering the relevant amount of these goods produced within the agricultural sector and in small food industries. The small dimension of the production units in these sectors hinders both brand creation and respective branding. In this context, it would seem important to analyse the relationships between food marketing and consumer choice, highlighting the role of brands in these frameworks. For this purpose, a literature review was carried out considering 147 documents from Scopus database for the topics of search “food marketing” and “choices” (search performed on 16 October 2020). As main insights, it is worth highlighting that the main issues addressed by the literature, concerning food marketing and consumer choices, are the following: economic theory; label and packaging; marketing strategies; agriculture and food industry; market segments; social dimensions; brand and branding. In turn, food marketing heavily conditions consumer choices; however, these related instruments are better manipulated by larger companies. In addition, this review highlights that bigger companies have dominant positions in these markets which are not always beneficial to the consumers’ objectives.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This scoping review examines literature from the past 5 years (June 2014 to June 2019) across three databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, and Scopus) to detail how the persuasive power of child-targeted food marketing content is addressed and evaluated in current research, to document trends and gaps in research, and to identify opportunities for future focus. RECENT FINDINGS Eighty relevant studies were identified, with varied approaches related to examining food marketing techniques to children (i.e., experimental, survey, meta-analyses, mixed methods, content analyses, focus groups). Few studies specifically defined power, and studies differed in terms of techniques examined. Spokes-characters were the predominant marketing technique measured; television was the platform most analyzed; and dominant messages focused on health/nutrition, taste appeals, and appeals to fun/pleasure. Mapping the current landscape when it comes to the power of food marketing to children reveals concrete details about particular platforms, methods, and strategies, as well as opportunities for future research-particularly with respect to definitions and techniques monitored, digital platforms, qualitative research, and tracking changes in targeted marketing techniques over time.
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The YouTube Marketing Communication Effect on Cognitive, Affective and Behavioural Attitudes among Generation Z Consumers. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12125075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
YouTube (YT) is the largest online video digital channel with more than 2 billion users, and over a billion hours of YT videos are viewed every day, particularly among young consumers. YT has become a massive marketing communication platform, which serves as a medium to target the lucrative Generation Z cohort (first born in the late 1990s), and influence this generation’s infamously unpredictable purchase decision process. The main aim of this paper was to consider the effect of YouTube marketing communication (YMC) on the traditional and non-traditional attitudinal associations of response hierarchy models. A multi-stage sample technique was used and 3750 high school and college learners (aged 13–18 years old) were surveyed via self-administered questionnaires in South Africa. Structural equation modelling was utilised to consider the hypothesised attitudinal associations. The research determined that YMC had a positive influence on the hypothesised attitudinal associations, and young consumers who used YT for fewer years, logged on more frequently, spent shorter time periods on the platform, viewed higher numbers of commercials, aged 13–14 years old, and from the White population group exhibited the most positive attitudinal responses. Hence, organisations should review their strategies in order to develop more sustainable YMC owing to the heterogeneity evident among young African consumers.
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Vanwesenbeeck I, Hudders L, Ponnet K. Understanding the YouTube Generation: How Preschoolers Process Television and YouTube Advertising. CYBERPSYCHOLOGY BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL NETWORKING 2020; 23:426-432. [PMID: 32320269 DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2019.0488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Preschool children are generally assumed to lack the skills to critically respond to advertising despite being exposed to a high number of advertising messages while watching videos on YouTube. However, research on how preschool children process YouTube advertising is scarce. This study conducts an experiment to examine how preschool children's (4-5 years old, N = 62) responses to video advertising (20-second toy commercial) vary between YouTube and television viewing. The results suggest that almost half of the children were able to distinguish advertising from regular media content, and almost 70% of the children could correctly identify that the video was advertising. No differences were found between the two media. Children were not skeptical toward the video advertisement. With regard to ad effects, the results show low brand and product recall, whereas aided recall was higher (around 40% of the children could correctly recognize the product and brand shown in the advertisement). These findings suggest that 4-5-year-old children already have a proper understanding of advertising, but lack a critical attitude. Furthermore, children's advertising literacy does not vary between YouTube and television advertising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ini Vanwesenbeeck
- Department of Communication Sciences, Research Group Center for Persuasive Communication (CEPEC), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Liselot Hudders
- Department of Communication Sciences, Research Group Center for Persuasive Communication (CEPEC), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Marketing, Ghent University, Ghent Belgium
| | - Koen Ponnet
- Department of Communication Sciences, Research Group for Media, Innovation and Communication Technologies (imec-mict), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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41
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Smit CR, Buijs L, van Woudenberg TJ, Bevelander KE, Buijzen M. The Impact of Social Media Influencers on Children's Dietary Behaviors. Front Psychol 2020; 10:2975. [PMID: 31998202 PMCID: PMC6967733 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past years vlogs rapidly have become an attractive platform for food industries, sponsoring social media influencers to promote their products. As with more traditional media, social media influencers predominantly promote unhealthy drinks and foods that are high in sugar, fat, and salt - consumption of which may increase the risk of overweight, obesity, and non-communicable diseases. The aim of the current Brief Research Report is to examine the impact of vlogs on children's unhealthy dietary behaviors. Drawing on longitudinal survey data from 453 8- to 12-year-old children, we analyzed the longitudinal relations between children's frequency of watching vlogs and their consumption of unhealthy beverages and snacks. Structural path modeling analyses of three waves of data with 1-year intervals showed that children's self-reported frequency of watching vlogs influenced consumption of unhealthy beverages 2 years later. The analyses did not yield significant relations for Unhealthy Snacks Consumption. The strength of the observed longitudinal relation between children's Frequency of Watching Vlogs and Consumption of unhealthy beverages was comparable to previous findings regarding more traditional types of food marketing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal R. Smit
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Laura Buijs
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Kirsten E. Bevelander
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Moniek Buijzen
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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42
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Qutteina Y, De Backer C, Smits T. Media food marketing and eating outcomes among pre-adolescents and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Obes Rev 2019; 20:1708-1719. [PMID: 31468652 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The media marketing's effect on child and adult eating has been extensively researched, yet, little is known about its effect on adolescents. The aim of this review is to synthesize available research on the relation between media food marketing and eating-related cognitions, attitudes, and behaviors among pre-adolescents (8-11) and adolescents (12-19). We systematically screened and retrieved 9324 articles, of which 28 were included in the review-analysis and 19 in the meta-analysis. Robust variance estimation with random effect weights indicated a positive small standard effect size (d = 0.26, P < .001) of media food marketing on all unhealthy eating outcomes, and a subgroup analysis revealed a small effect size (d = 0.26, P < .001) on unhealthy eating behaviors specifically. Another subgroup analysis among adolescents revealed an effect of marketing (d = 0.22, P < .05) on unhealthy eating outcomes. This review demonstrates the significance of media marketing on eating in pre-adolescents and adolescents, and highlights limitations in the food marketing and adolescent eating literature specific to eating outcomes and marketing media studied and research designs utilized. We call for properly designed food marketing research exploring digital media's effect on eating attitudes and cognitions, especially among older adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara Qutteina
- Institute for Media Studies, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Charlotte De Backer
- Department of Communication Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Tim Smits
- Institute for Media Studies, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Coates AE, Hardman CA, Halford JCG, Christiansen P, Boyland EJ. Food and Beverage Cues Featured in YouTube Videos of Social Media Influencers Popular With Children: An Exploratory Study. Front Psychol 2019; 10:2142. [PMID: 31616344 PMCID: PMC6763597 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Food and beverage cues (visual displays of food or beverage products/brands) featured in traditional broadcast and digital marketing are predominantly for products high in fat, sugar and/or salt (HFSS). YouTube is hugely popular with children, and cues featured in content uploaded by YouTube video bloggers (influencers) has been shown to affect children’s eating behavior. However, little is known about the prevalence of such cues, the contexts in which they appear, and the frequency with which they are featured as part of explicit marketing campaigns. The objective of this study was to explore the extent and nature of food and beverage cues featured in YouTube videos of influencers popular with children. All videos uploaded by two influencers (one female, one male) over a year (2017) were analyzed. Based on previous content analyses of broadcast marketing, cues were categorized by product type and classified as “healthy” or “less healthy” according to the UK Nutrient Profiling Model. Cues were also coded for branding status, and other factors related to their display (e.g., description). In total, the sample comprised 380 YouTube videos (119.5 h) and, of these, only 27 videos (7.4%) did not feature any food or beverage cues. Cakes (9.4%) and fast foods (8.9%) were the most frequently featured product types, less frequent were healthier products such as fruits (6.5%) and vegetables (5.8%). Overall, cues were more frequently classified as less healthy (49.4%) than healthy (34.5%) and were presented in different contexts according to nutritional profile. Less healthy foods (compared with healthy foods) were more often; branded, presented in the context of eating out, described positively, not consumed, and featured as part of an explicit marketing campaign. These data provide the first empirical assessment of the extent and nature of food and beverage cue presentation in YouTube videos by influencers popular with children. Given the emerging evidence of the effects of influencer marketing of food and beverages on children’s eating behavior, this exploratory study offers a novel methodological platform for digital food marketing assessment and delivers important contextual information that could inform policy deliberations in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E Coates
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte A Hardman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jason C G Halford
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Christiansen
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Emma J Boyland
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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44
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Indian Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines on the Fast and Junk Foods, Sugar Sweetened Beverages, Fruit Juices, and Energy Drinks. Indian Pediatr 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s13312-019-1612-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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45
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Nga VT, Dung VNT, Chu DT, Tien NLB, Van Thanh V, Ngoc VTN, Hoan LN, Phuong NT, Pham VH, Tao Y, Linh NP, Show PL, Do DL. School education and childhood obesity: A systemic review. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2019; 13:2495-2501. [PMID: 31405667 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2019.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Childhood obesity prevalence is shooting up at a phenomenal rate worldwide, leading to long-term devastating consequences. A great number of studies have investigated factors contributing to the increase in BMI of children and adolescents. School-based, home-based and clinic-based solutions have been suggested as possible viable strategies, among which school-based interventions is believed to produce a noticeable effect on a massive scale. However, the question of whether school interventions, especially school education exert significant impact on childhood obesity or not, is left with mixing results. This article aims to holistically review the relationship between school education and childhood obesity. Various factors are covered, including health education, nutrition education, school nutrition, physical education, teachers' awareness, teaching practice and school stress, In all, school education is not the answer to childhood obesity but just part of it. More attempts from other stakeholders (parents, community, policy makers, researchers, etc.) should be made in order to solve this complicated puzzle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vu Thi Nga
- Institute for Research and Development, Duy Tan University, 03 QuangTrung, Danang, Viet Nam
| | | | - Dinh-Toi Chu
- Faculty of Biology, Hanoi National University of Education, Hanoi, Viet Nam; School of Odonto Stomatology, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Viet Nam.
| | - Nguyen Le Bao Tien
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Viet Duc Hospital, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Vo Van Thanh
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Viet Duc Hospital, Hanoi, Viet Nam; Department of Surgery, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | | | - Le Ngoc Hoan
- Faculty of Biology, Hanoi National University of Education, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Nguyen Thi Phuong
- NTT Hi-tech Institute, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 300A Nguyen Tat Thanh St, Ward 13, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Van-Huy Pham
- AI Lab, Faculty of Information Technology, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.
| | - Yang Tao
- College of Food Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 8, 210095, China
| | | | - Pau Loke Show
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, JalanBroga, 43500, Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Duc-Lan Do
- National Centre for Sustainable Development of General Education Quality, Vietnam National Institute of Educational Sciences, Hanoi, Viet Nam
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Public support for health taxes and media regulation of harmful products in South Korea. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:665. [PMID: 31146724 PMCID: PMC6543563 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7044-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public health policy is inevitably associated with either a strong presence or lack of public support. We investigated factors associated with both the public support of and opposition to health taxes and the media regulation regarding advertising harmful products in Korea. METHODS We interviewed 1200 respondents that were recruited using an equal-probability sampling method in accordance with the 2016 Korean census. Our investigation examined the extent of support and opposition towards health taxes and the media regulation of advertising that targets the consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy foods according to socioeconomic characteristics, health habits, body mass index (BMI), and exposure to the advertising of harmful products. The study was conducted using a univariate and stepwise multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS The majority (71.8%) of the respondents were supportive of imposing health taxes in general. Despite a high prevalence of tobacco and alcohol consumption among the respondents, they strongly supported media regulation of tobacco (72.3%), alcohol (63.7%), and eating broadcasts (51.9%) food advertising (44.0%). Those that were non-smokers, earned a high-income, were married, or had a child were likely to support at least one kind of regulation regarding alcohol and smoking related advertising. An exposure to excessive advertising of unhealthy products was associated with increase of respondents supporting the media regulation. Those who regarded the media as being influential seemed to be more supportive of health taxes or media regulation. CONCLUSION Our results indicated strong public support among the respondents for health taxes and the media regulation regarding the advertising of unhealthy products. Based on our data, we are optimistic that countries whose population show a high rate of tobacco, alcohol or unhealthy food consumption may launch public policy in addressing these factors.
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