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Falbe J, Marinello S, Wolf EC, Solar S, Powell LM. Food Environment After Implementation of a Healthy Checkout Policy. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2421731. [PMID: 39115848 PMCID: PMC11310826 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.21731] [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: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance In March 2021, Berkeley, California, became the world's first jurisdiction to implement a healthy checkout policy, which sets nutrition standards for foods and beverages in store checkouts. This healthy checkout ordinance (HCO) has the potential to improve customers' dietary intake if stores comply by increasing the healthfulness of foods and beverages at checkouts. Objectives To compare the percentage of checkout products that were HCO compliant and that fell into healthy and unhealthy food and beverage categories before and 1 year after HCO implementation in Berkeley relative to comparison cities. Design, Setting, and Participants In this cohort study in which Berkeley implemented an HCO and other cities did not, a difference-in-differences analysis was conducted of 76 258 product facings at checkouts of 23 stores in Berkeley and 75 stores in 3 comparison cities in California. Data were collected in February 2021 (approximately 1 month before implementation of the HCO) and 1 year later in February 2022 and analyzed from October 2023 to May 2024. Exposure The HCO, which permits only the following products at checkouts in large food stores: nonfood and nonbeverage products, unsweetened beverages, and foods with 5 g or less of added sugars per serving and 200 mg or less of sodium per serving in the following categories: sugar-free gum and mints, fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, yogurt or cheese, and whole grains. Main Outcomes and Measures A product facing's (1) HCO compliance and (2) category, including healthy compliant categories and unhealthy noncompliant categories, determined using a validated photograph-based tool to assess product characteristics. Results Of the 76 258 product facings at store checkouts, the percentage that were HCO compliant increased from 53% (4438 of 8425) to 83% (5966 of 7220) in Berkeley, a 63% increase relative to comparison cities (probability ratio [PR], 1.63; 95% CI, 1.41-1.87). The percentage of food and beverage checkout facings that were HCO compliant increased in Berkeley from 29% (1652 of 5639) to 62% (2007 of 3261), a 125% increase relative to comparison cities (PR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.80-2.82). The percentage of Berkeley food and beverage facings consisting of candy, sugar-sweetened beverages, and other sweets significantly decreased (candy: from 30% [1687 of 5639] to 6% [197 of 3261]; PR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.10-0.42; sugar-sweetened beverages: from 11% [596 of 5639] to 5% [157 of 3261]; PR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.23-0.75; other sweets: from 7% [413 of 5639] to 3% [101 of 3261]; PR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.15-0.88), while the percentage consisting of unsweetened beverages (from 4% [226 of 5639] to 19% [604 of 3261]; PR, 4.76; 95% CI, 2.54-8.91) and healthy foods (from 6% [350 of 5639] to 20% [663 of 3261]; PR, 2.90; 95% CI, 1.79-4.72) significantly increased. Conclusions and Relevance This cohort study of the first healthy checkout policy found substantial improvements in the healthfulness of food environments at checkouts 1 year after implementation of the policy. These results suggest that healthy checkout policies have the potential to improve the healthfulness of store checkouts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Falbe
- Human Development and Family Studies Program, Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis
| | - Samantha Marinello
- Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago
| | - Ethan C. Wolf
- Human Development and Family Studies Program, Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis
- Public Health Nutrition Program, Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley
| | - Sarah Solar
- Human Development and Family Studies Program, Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis
| | - Lisa M. Powell
- Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago
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Smith NR, Levy DE, Falbe J, Purtle J, Chriqui JF. Design considerations for developing measures of policy implementation in quantitative evaluations of public health policy. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2024; 4:1322702. [PMID: 39076770 PMCID: PMC11285065 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2024.1322702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Typical quantitative evaluations of public policies treat policies as a binary condition, without further attention to how policies are implemented. However, policy implementation plays an important role in how the policy impacts behavioral and health outcomes. The field of policy-focused implementation science is beginning to consider how policy implementation may be conceptualized in quantitative analyses (e.g., as a mediator or moderator), but less work has considered how to measure policy implementation for inclusion in quantitative work. To help address this gap, we discuss four design considerations for researchers interested in developing or identifying measures of policy implementation using three independent NIH-funded research projects studying e-cigarette, food, and mental health policies. Mini case studies of these considerations were developed via group discussions; we used the implementation research logic model to structure our discussions. Design considerations include (1) clearly specifying the implementation logic of the policy under study, (2) developing an interdisciplinary team consisting of policy practitioners and researchers with expertise in quantitative methods, public policy and law, implementation science, and subject matter knowledge, (3) using mixed methods to identify, measure, and analyze relevant policy implementation determinants and processes, and (4) building flexibility into project timelines to manage delays and challenges due to the real-world nature of policy. By applying these considerations in their own work, researchers can better identify or develop measures of policy implementation that fit their needs. The experiences of the three projects highlighted in this paper reinforce the need for high-quality and transferrable measures of policy implementation, an area where collaboration between implementation scientists and policy experts could be particularly fruitful. These measurement practices provide a foundation for the field to build on as attention to incorporating measures of policy implementation into quantitative evaluations grows and will help ensure that researchers are developing a more complete understanding of how policies impact health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Riva Smith
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Douglas E. Levy
- Mongan Institute Health Policy Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jennifer Falbe
- Human Development and Family Studies Program, Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan Purtle
- Department of Public Health Policy & Management, Global Center for Implementation Science, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jamie F. Chriqui
- Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Brooker PG, Howlett CA, Brindal E, Hendrie GA. Strategies associated with improved healthiness of consumer purchasing in supermarket interventions: a systematic overview of reviews and evaluation of primary articles. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1334324. [PMID: 38983251 PMCID: PMC11232481 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1334324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Growing evidence suggests that it is possible to change the retail food environment to enable healthier choices via in-store interventions. It has been difficult to draw clear conclusions as to which interventions are most effective in positively influencing consumer purchasing behaviour given the significant heterogeneity within the food retail research literature. The aim of this study was to (1) summarise current high-quality systematic, scoping, and/or narrative reviews (Part I: overview of reviews); and (2) synthesise high-quality original research, to understand the range, types and effectiveness of strategies implemented in food retail settings (Part II: evaluation of primary studies). Methods To identify reviews describing the effects of intervention strategies aiming to improve the healthiness of consumer purchasing in supermarkets, a systematic search across seven electronic databases was completed in April 2023. The methodological quality of reviews was assessed using the risk of bias in systematic reviews for systematic and scoping reviews, and the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles for narrative reviews. High-quality reviews were further inspected and synthesised narratively (Part I). Next, to understand strategies associated with improved healthiness of consumer purchasing high-quality, primary articles from high-quality reviews identified in Part I were retrieved, and the strategies implemented within these interventions were summarised (Part II). Results Thirty-eight reviews met the inclusion criteria for Part I; two-thirds (n = 25, 66%) were rated as high-quality (66%). These reviews indicated that pricing strategies had the greatest proportion of reported positive or promising effects on outcomes (n = 8 of 11 reviews, 73%). Twenty reviews met the inclusion criteria for Part II and the 771 primary articles from these reviews were screened with 23 high-quality primary articles included in analysis. Findings indicated that promotional strategies in combination with another strategy appeared to be most successful among regular shoppers (the general population), whereas pricing was most successful in low socio-economic status and rural sub-groups. Conclusion Promotion, pricing and prompting were the most commonly tested strategies across the overview of reviews and review of primary articles. Promotion, in combination with other strategies, and pricing appear to be most promising, but the effectiveness of pricing strategies may vary by sub-groups of the population. How pricing and promotion in combination with other strategies can be implemented responsibly and sustainably to change purchase habits towards healthier items should be explored further. Systematic Review registration OSF, https://osf.io/jyg73/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige G. Brooker
- Health and Biosecurity, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Dancey J, Reeve B, Jones A, Ferguson M, van Burgel E, Brimblecombe J. The use of private regulatory measures to create healthy food retail environments: a scoping review. Public Health Nutr 2024; 27:e88. [PMID: 38465376 PMCID: PMC11010160 DOI: 10.1017/s136898002400065x] [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: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Different forms of public and private regulation have been used to improve the healthiness of food retail environments. The aim of this scoping review was to systematically examine the types of private regulatory measures used to create healthy food retail environments, the reporting of the processes of implementation, monitoring, review and enforcement and the barriers to and enablers of these. DESIGN Scoping review using the Johanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL Plus, Business Source Complete and Scopus databases were searched in October 2020 and again in September 2023 using terms for 'food retail', 'regulation' and 'nutrition'. Regulatory measure type was described by domain and mechanism. Deductive thematic analysis was used to identify reported barriers and enablers to effective regulatory governance processes using a public health law framework. SETTING Food retail. PARTICIPANTS Food retail settings using private regulatory measures to create healthier food retail environments. RESULTS In total, 17 694 articles were screened and thirty-five included for review from six countries, with all articles published since 2011. Articles reporting on twenty-six unique private regulatory measures cited a mix of voluntary (n 16), mandatory (n 6) measures, both (n 2) or did not disclose (n 2). Articles frequently reported on implementation (34/35), with less reporting on the other regulatory governance processes of monitoring (15/35), review (6/35) and enforcement (2/35). CONCLUSIONS We recommend more attention be paid to reporting on the monitoring, review and enforcement processes used in private regulation to promote further progress in improving the healthiness of food retail environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Dancey
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash
University, Clayton, VIC,
Australia
| | - Belinda Reeve
- The University of Sydney Law School, Sydney,
NSW, Australia
| | - Alexandra Jones
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New
South Wales, UNSW, Sydney, NSW,
Australia
| | - Megan Ferguson
- School of Public Health, The University of
Queensland, Herston, QLD,
Australia
| | - Emma van Burgel
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash
University, Clayton, VIC,
Australia
| | - Julie Brimblecombe
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash
University, Clayton, VIC,
Australia
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Korevaar E, Turner SL, Forbes AB, Karahalios A, Taljaard M, McKenzie JE. Comparison of statistical methods used to meta-analyse results from interrupted time series studies: an empirical study. BMC Med Res Methodol 2024; 24:31. [PMID: 38341540 PMCID: PMC10858609 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-024-02147-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Interrupted Time Series (ITS) is a robust design for evaluating public health and policy interventions or exposures when randomisation may be infeasible. Several statistical methods are available for the analysis and meta-analysis of ITS studies. We sought to empirically compare available methods when applied to real-world ITS data. METHODS We sourced ITS data from published meta-analyses to create an online data repository. Each dataset was re-analysed using two ITS estimation methods. The level- and slope-change effect estimates (and standard errors) were calculated and combined using fixed-effect and four random-effects meta-analysis methods. We examined differences in meta-analytic level- and slope-change estimates, their 95% confidence intervals, p-values, and estimates of heterogeneity across the statistical methods. RESULTS Of 40 eligible meta-analyses, data from 17 meta-analyses including 282 ITS studies were obtained (predominantly investigating the effects of public health interruptions (88%)) and analysed. We found that on average, the meta-analytic effect estimates, their standard errors and between-study variances were not sensitive to meta-analysis method choice, irrespective of the ITS analysis method. However, across ITS analysis methods, for any given meta-analysis, there could be small to moderate differences in meta-analytic effect estimates, and important differences in the meta-analytic standard errors. Furthermore, the confidence interval widths and p-values for the meta-analytic effect estimates varied depending on the choice of confidence interval method and ITS analysis method. CONCLUSIONS Our empirical study showed that meta-analysis effect estimates, their standard errors, confidence interval widths and p-values can be affected by statistical method choice. These differences may importantly impact interpretations and conclusions of a meta-analysis and suggest that the statistical methods are not interchangeable in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Korevaar
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Simon L Turner
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Andrew B Forbes
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Amalia Karahalios
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Monica Taljaard
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Joanne E McKenzie
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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Skeggs H, McHugh L. Changing the retail food environment. NUTR BULL 2023; 48:435-441. [PMID: 37986637 DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Skeggs
- IGD, Grange Lane, Letchmore Heath, Watford, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Lizzy McHugh
- IGD, Grange Lane, Letchmore Heath, Watford, Hertfordshire, UK
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Grummon AH, Petimar J, Moran AJ, Anderson E, Lurie P, John S, Rimm EB, Thorndike AN. Effects of in-store marketing on food and beverage purchases: a longitudinal study of households with children. Public Health Nutr 2023; 27:e4. [PMID: 38037704 PMCID: PMC10830370 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023002641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Most food retailers display foods in prominent locations as a marketing strategy (i.e. 'placement promotions'). We examined the extent to which households with children change their food and beverage purchases in response to these promotions. DESIGN We analysed a novel dataset of all products promoted in two supermarkets from 2016 to 2017, including promotion dates and locations (e.g. aisle endcaps and front registers). We linked promotions to all purchases from the supermarkets from 2016 to 2017 by a cohort of households with children. We calculated the number of weekly promotions in each of thirteen food and beverage groups (e.g. bread; candy) and used fixed effects regressions to estimate associations between number of weekly promotions and households' weekly food purchases, overall and by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation. SETTING Two large supermarkets in Maine, USA. PARTICIPANTS Eight hundred and twenty-one households with children. RESULTS Most promotions (74 %) were for less healthy foods. The most promoted food groups were sweet and salty snacks (mean = 131·0 promotions/week), baked goods (mean = 68·2) and sugar-sweetened beverages (mean = 41·6). Households generally did not change their food group purchases during weeks when they were exposed to more promotions for those groups, except that a 1-sd increase in endcap candy promotions (about 1 promotion/week) was associated with $0·19/week (about 14·5 %) increase in candy purchases among SNAP nonparticipants (adjusted P < 0·001). CONCLUSIONS In-store placement promotions for food groups were generally not associated with purchases of promoted food groups, perhaps because exposure to unhealthy food marketing was consistently high. Substantial changes to in-store food marketing may be needed to promote healthier purchases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna H Grummon
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA94304, USA
- Department of Health Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Joshua Petimar
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, USA
| | - Alyssa J Moran
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Emma Anderson
- Department of Population Health Management, Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, USA
| | - Peter Lurie
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, USA
| | - Sara John
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, USA
| | - Eric B Rimm
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, USA
| | - Anne N Thorndike
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
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Wallis LW, Moore SG. Product promotions in online supermarkets: prevalence of 'High Fat Sugar Salt' (HFSS) products and labelling characteristics. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:2607-2618. [PMID: 37606051 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023001787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence of 'High Fat Sugar Salt' (HFSS) products and front-of-pack nutrition labelling (FOPNL) characteristics across promoted products in UK online supermarkets. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey conducted (December 2021-January 2022) on promoted products. Data on ingredients, nutritional composition and display of FOPNL were collected from product webpages. The UK's Nutrient Profiling Model and Multiple Traffic Light criteria were used to determine HFSS status and possession of inherent red traffic lights (iRTL), respectively. Data analysis determined the prevalence (i.e. percentage of products of the total number of products sampled) of HFSS; FOPNL and possession of iRTL. Chi-squared tests explored associations between these. SETTING Three major UK online supermarket retailer websites. PARTICIPANTS Product 'multibuy' and 'entrance' promotions, from selected product categories. RESULTS Among the sampled 625 promoted products, the prevalence of HFSS was greater in entrance (73 %) compared with multibuy (41 %) promotions (χ2 (1) = 34, P < 0·05), with variations in the former across retailers (49-92 %). The prevalence of HFSS products in multibuy promotions offered by two retailers varied by category (i.e. Confectionery 94-97 %, Yogurts 20-20 %, Soft Drinks 16-33 %, Ready Meals 1·4-18 %). Not all promoted products displayed FOPNL on webpages (70 %) or images (52 %). A number of iRTL were found to be possessed by both HFSS and non-HFSS-promoted products. CONCLUSIONS Prior to the 2022 implementation of Regulations restricting these, HFSS products were promoted in online supermarkets with varying display of FOPNL and possession of iRTL. Findings support future policy evaluation and mandatory digital FOPNL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis W Wallis
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, LeedsLS3 9JT, UK
| | - Sally G Moore
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, LeedsLS3 9JT, UK
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Hilton S, Vaczy C, Buckton C, Patterson C, Smith MJ. Expert views on high fat, salt and sugar food marketing policies to tackle obesity and improve dietary behaviours in the UK: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1951. [PMID: 37814236 PMCID: PMC10561510 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16821-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been a lack of progress in reducing obesity in the United Kingdom (UK) despite Government strategies released over the last 30 years. These strategies, including the most recent publication from July 2020, have focused on childhood obesity and high fat, sugar and/or salt (HFSS) marketing restrictions, particularly broadcast advertising. In this study, we aimed to examine a range of expert views on the potential impact and the relative importance of such policies. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 42 experts in policy (n = 19), industry (n = 10), and advocacy (n = 13) with an interest in obesity. The UK Government's 2020 obesity strategy was used as a prompt to guide discussion on policy options. Qualitative thematic analysis was employed to answer the three research questions and themes were inductively coded within each research question. Data were also cross compared using matrix coding and a form of framework analysis to examine the views expressed by the different types of stakeholders. RESULTS Reactions to the July 2020 proposal were mixed among policy and advocacy stakeholders, while commercial stakeholders expressed disappointment. A main theme emerging in all groups was frustration with the policy process and wishing to see more clarity regarding restrictions and their implementation. There was an overall lack of trust that the government would carry out their proposed plan and agreement that a more comprehensive, multi-sector approach aimed at the underlying drivers of obesity would be most effective, with some stakeholders indicating that some of the proposed policies could make a difference if implemented robustly. On the theme of promoting healthier options, some stakeholders suggested lowering the prices of 'healthy' products and making them more accessible to combat regressivity. There was a potentially surprising level of agreement between policy/advocacy stakeholders and commercial stakeholders, although commercial stakeholders were more likely to advocate for collaboration between government and industry as well as voluntary industry measures. CONCLUSION While HFSS marketing restrictions have a role to play and send a strong signal - provided they are implemented comprehensively - investment in these policies needs to be part of wider efforts to tackle the underlying drivers of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shona Hilton
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, 99 Berkeley Square, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
| | - Caroline Vaczy
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, 99 Berkeley Square, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK.
| | - Christina Buckton
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, 99 Berkeley Square, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
| | - Chris Patterson
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, 99 Berkeley Square, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
| | - Marissa J Smith
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, 99 Berkeley Square, Glasgow, G3 7HR, UK
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Petimar J, Moran AJ, Grummon AH, Anderson E, Lurie P, John S, Rimm EB, Thorndike AN. In-Store Marketing and Supermarket Purchases: Associations Overall and by Transaction SNAP Status. Am J Prev Med 2023; 65:587-595. [PMID: 36878416 PMCID: PMC10475490 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2023.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In-store placement promotions are used widely in supermarkets, but their effects on customer purchases remain largely unknown. This study examined associations of supermarket placement promotions with customer purchases overall and by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit use. METHODS Data on in-store promotions (e.g., endcaps, checkout displays) and transactions (n=274,118,338) were obtained from a New England supermarket chain with 179 stores from 2016 to 2017. Product-level analyses examined multivariable-adjusted changes in products' sales when they were promoted (versus not) across all transactions and stratified by whether the transaction was paid for with SNAP benefits. Food group-level analyses examined the extent to which a 20% increase from the mean number of weekly promotions for a food group (e.g., increasing the number of candy promotions from 17.0 to 20.4) was associated with total food group sales. Analyses were conducted in 2022. RESULTS Across stores, the mean (SD) number of promotions per week was highest for sweet/salty snacks (126.3 [22.6]), baked goods (67.5 [18.4]), and sugar-sweetened beverages (48.6 [13.8]) and lowest for beans (5.0 [2.6]) and fruits (6.6 [3.3]). Product sales were between 16% (low-calorie drinks) and 136% (candy) higher when promoted versus not promoted. In 14 of 15 food groups, associations were stronger among transactions made with SNAP benefits than among those not made with SNAP benefits. The number of in-store promotions was generally not associated with total food group sales. CONCLUSIONS In-store promotions, which were mostly for unhealthy foods, were associated with large product sales increases, particularly among SNAP purchasers. Policies limiting unhealthy in-store promotions and incentivizing healthy promotions should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Petimar
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Alyssa J Moran
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Anna H Grummon
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School & Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emma Anderson
- Department of Population Health Management, Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Peter Lurie
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Sara John
- Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Eric B Rimm
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anne N Thorndike
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Temple NJ. A Proposed Strategy against Obesity: How Government Policy Can Counter the Obesogenic Environment. Nutrients 2023; 15:2910. [PMID: 37447235 DOI: 10.3390/nu15132910] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
An epidemic of obesity emerged in the USA in 1976-1980. The epidemic then spread to many other Westernized nations. Many interventions have been carried out with the goal of lowering the prevalence of obesity. These have mostly taken the form of various types of health promotion (i.e., providing people with education, advice, and encouragement). These actions have achieved, at most, only limited success. A strategy with a better chance of success starts with the recognition that the fundamental cause of obesity is that we live in an obesogenic environment. It is therefore necessary to change the environment so that it fosters a generally healthy lifestyle, thereby leading to enhanced health for the population, including improved weight control. A major goal is to increase the intake of healthy foods (especially fruit, vegetables, and whole grains), while decreasing intake of unhealthy foods (especially ultra-processed foods such as sugar). This will require major changes of many government policies. Some of the required policies are as follows. Schools should implement policies that create a healthy environment for children. For example, they should adopt a policy that only foods of high nutritional quality are sold in vending machines or given to students within school meals. Policies need to go well beyond the school setting; a broad strategy is needed that creates a healthy environment for children. Another important policy is the manipulation of food prices in order to shift the diet toward healthy foods. This requires using subsidies to lower the price of healthy foods, while adding a tax to less healthy foods to increase the price. This policy has been implemented in many cities and countries in the form of a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). The advertising of unhealthy foods (including fast-food restaurants) should be banned, especially where children and adolescents are the major target. Such a ban could be extended to a complete ban on all advertising for unhealthy foods, including that directed at adults. The proposed policy measures are likely to be strongly opposed by food corporations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman J Temple
- Centre for Science, Athabasca University, Athabasca, AB T9S 3A3, Canada
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12
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Vogel C, Dijkstra C, Huitink M, Dhuria P, Poelman MP, Mackenbach JD, Crozier S, Seidell J, Baird J, Ball K. Real-life experiments in supermarkets to encourage healthy dietary-related behaviours: opportunities, challenges and lessons learned. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2023; 20:73. [PMID: 37340326 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-023-01448-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Supermarkets are the primary source of food for many people yet their full potential as a setting to encourage healthy dietary-related behaviours remains underutilised. Sharing the experiences from research groups who have worked with supermarket chains to evaluate strategies that promote healthy eating could improve the efficiency of building such relationships and enhance the design quality of future research studies. METHODS A collective case study approach was used to synthesise experiences of engaging and sustaining research collaborations with national supermarket chains to test the effectiveness of health-focused in-store interventions. The collective narrative covers studies conducted in three high-income countries: Australia, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. RESULTS We have distilled our experiences and lessons learned into six recommendations for conducting high quality public health research with commercial supermarket chains. These include: (i) using personal contacts, knowledge of supermarket activities and engaging executive management to establish a partnership and allowing time to build trust; (ii) using scientifically robust study designs with appropriate sample size calculations; (iii) formalising data exchange arrangements and allocating adequate resource for data extraction and re-categorisation; (iv) assessing effects at individual/households level where possible; (v) designing a mixed-methods process evaluation to measure intervention fidelity, dose and unintended consequences; and (vi) ensuring scientific independence through formal contract agreements. CONCLUSIONS Our collective experiences of working in non-financial partnerships with national supermarket chains could be useful for other research groups looking to develop and implement supermarket studies in an efficient manner. Further evidence from real-life supermarket interventions is necessary to identify sustainable strategies that can improve population diet and maintain necessary commercial outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Vogel
- Centre for Food Policy, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London, EC1V 0HB, UK.
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.
- National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - Coosje Dijkstra
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, De Boelelaan 1085, Amsterdam, 1081 HV, the Netherlands.
| | - Marlijn Huitink
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, De Boelelaan 1085, Amsterdam, 1081 HV, the Netherlands
| | - Preeti Dhuria
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Maartje P Poelman
- Chair group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 8130, Wageningen, 6700 EW, The Netherlands
| | - Joreintje D Mackenbach
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, De Boelelaan 1089a, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sarah Crozier
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Jacob Seidell
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, De Boelelaan 1085, Amsterdam, 1081 HV, the Netherlands
| | - Janis Baird
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Kylie Ball
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, 1 Gheringhap Street, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
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13
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Cooper K, Parle J, Middleton JD. VAT: a precise mechanism to identify drug-food companies. J Public Health (Oxf) 2023; 45:389-392. [PMID: 35285887 PMCID: PMC10273360 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of drug-foods (tobacco and cane sugar, cocoa and caffeine) and the consequences of their production on the health of both public and planet are wide ranging and increasing from obesity to pressure on water supply. The world's food system is dominated by a small number of global corporations making and promoting drug-foods in myriad forms. The use of sugar-substitute non-sugar sweeteners, and their design of products, are specifically formulated to be 'moreish', to stimulate pleasure responses above and beyond the natural pleasure of eating. In the UK we can identify these foods, and the corporations that make them, since Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied. We suggest that, for food and drink upon which UK VAT is levied, advertising and product placement should be prohibited and controls put on branding and packaging. We further suggest action is taken to: (i) restrain the activities of the companies making these products, (ii) prohibit their sponsorship and/or partnership with government bodies such as schools and NHS, (iii) ensure these corporations pay the full fiscal and environmental costs of drug-foods. Our urgent challenge is to act against the sociopathic power of such corporations, for the public health and that of the planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Cooper
- Birmingham Food Council and visiting Professional Fellow at the Crisis Management Centre, Aston Business School, Birmingham, UK
| | - James Parle
- General Practice at the University of Birmingham
| | - John D Middleton
- Public Health at the University of Wolverhampton and Immediate Past President of the Faculty of Public Health
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14
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Falbe J, Marinello S, Wolf EC, Solar SE, Schermbeck RM, Pipito AA, Powell LM. Food and Beverage Environments at Store Checkouts in California: Mostly Unhealthy Products. Curr Dev Nutr 2023; 7:100075. [PMID: 37250387 PMCID: PMC10213198 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.100075] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As the only place in a store where customers must pass through, checkouts may be especially influential over purchases. Research is needed to understand the healthfulness of checkout environments. Objectives The objective of this study was to classify checkout product facings in California food stores. Methods In a cross-sectional study, 102 stores, including chains (dollar stores, drugstores, specialty food stores, supermarkets, and mass merchandisers) and independent supermarkets and grocery stores were sampled from 4 northern California cities. Observational assessments of each checkout product facing were conducted in February 2021 using the Store CheckOUt Tool. Facings were classified by category and healthfulness, defined by meeting Berkeley's Healthy Checkout Ordinance's healthy checkout standards: unsweetened beverages and specific foods containing ≤5 g added sugar and ≤200 mg sodium per serving. Log binomial regressions compared healthfulness by store and checkout characteristics. Results Of 26,758 food and beverage checkout facings, the most common categories were candy (31%), gum (18%), sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs; 11%), salty snacks (9%), mints (7%), and sweets (6%). Water represented only 3% and fruits and vegetables 1% of these facings. Only 30% of food and beverage facings met Berkeley's healthy checkout standards, with 70% not meeting the standards. The percentage of food and beverage facings not meeting the standards was even higher (89%) among snack-sized packages (≤2 servings/package). Compared with chain supermarkets, mass merchandisers, and specialty food stores (34%-36%), dollar and independent grocery stores had a lower percentage of food and beverage facings that met the healthy checkout standards (18%-20%; P < 0.05). Compared with lane and register areas (35%), endcaps and snaking sections within checkouts had fewer food and beverage facings that met the standards (21%-23%; P < 0.001). Conclusions Most foods and beverages at checkout consisted of candy, SSBs, salty snacks, and sweets and failed to meet the healthy checkout standards.Curr Dev Nutr 2023;xx:xx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Falbe
- Human Development and Family Studies Program, Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Samantha Marinello
- Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ethan C. Wolf
- Human Development and Family Studies Program, Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
- Public Health Nutrition Program, Community Health Sciences, UC Berkeley School of Public Health, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Sarah E. Solar
- Human Development and Family Studies Program, Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Rebecca M. Schermbeck
- Institute for Health Research and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Andrea A. Pipito
- Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lisa M. Powell
- Health Policy and Administration, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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15
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Muir S, Dhuria P, Roe E, Lawrence W, Baird J, Vogel C. UK government's new placement legislation is a 'good first step': a rapid qualitative analysis of consumer, business, enforcement and health stakeholder perspectives. BMC Med 2023; 21:33. [PMID: 36703194 PMCID: PMC9878939 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-02726-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current food system in England promotes a population diet that is high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS). To address this, the UK government has implemented legislation to restrict the promotion of HFSS products in prominent locations (e.g. store entrances, checkouts) in qualifying retailers since October 2022. This study investigated the perceived impact of the legislation for affected stakeholders. METHODS A pre-implementation rapid qualitative evaluation of stakeholder interviews. One hundred eight UK stakeholders participated in the study including 34 consumers, 24 manufacturers and retailers, 22 local authority enforcement officers and 28 academic and charitable health representatives. A participatory conference was used to enable policy recommendations to be confirmed by stakeholders. RESULTS Stakeholders perceived the legislation to be a 'good first step' towards improving population diet but recognised this needed to be considered amongst a range of long-term obesity policies. Areas of further support were identified and these are presented as six recommendations for government to support the successful implementation of the legislation: (1) provide a free central HFSS calculator, (2) refine legislation to enhance intent and clarity, (3) conduct a robust evaluation to assess intended and unintended outcomes, (4) provide greater support for smaller businesses, (5) provide ring-fenced resources to local authorities and (6) create and communicate a long-term roadmap for food and health. CONCLUSIONS This legislation has the potential to reduce impulse HFSS purchases and makes a solid start towards creating healthier retail outlets for consumers. Immediate government actions to create a freely accessible HFSS calculator, support smaller businesses and provide additional resources to local authorities would support successful implementation and enforcement. Independent evaluation of the implementation of the legislation will enable monitoring of potential unintended consequences identified in this study and support refinement of the legislation. A long-term roadmap is necessary to outline strategies to support equal access to healthier and sustainable food across the whole food system within the next 20-30 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Muir
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - Preeti Dhuria
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Emma Roe
- School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Wendy Lawrence
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Janis Baird
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.,NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton Science Park, Innovation Centre, 2 Venture Road, Chilworth, Southampton, SO16 7NP, UK
| | - Christina Vogel
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.,NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton Science Park, Innovation Centre, 2 Venture Road, Chilworth, Southampton, SO16 7NP, UK.,Centre for Food Policy, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London, EC1V 0HB, UK
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16
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Larsen NM, Sigurdsson V, Gunnarsson D. Environmental cues for healthy food marketing: The importance of in-store research into three conversions. Front Nutr 2022; 9:1078672. [PMID: 36618685 PMCID: PMC9811177 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1078672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Since retailers control the space where consumers tend to make the vast majority of their food purchase decisions, they can take measures to promote healthy living. Increasing relative sales of healthy food can contribute to the ongoing battle against preventable lifestyle diseases. We show how retailers can use impression management and environmental cues in their stores to influence consumers' sales responses to healthy food. This paper advocates in-store research in this realm and introduces three consumer behavior levels - reaching, stopping/holding, and closing the sale - as micro-conversions when retailers use impression management on their consumers. We showcase impression management at each conversion level by testing the effects of placing healthy and unhealthy food items on a floor display in the store area with the most traffic, with or without background music and an advertisement. The results demonstrate that a healthy food product can outperform the sales of popular unhealthy foods. The floor display, for example, increased the sales of the targeted "healthy product" by 570% on average during the intervention periods, compared with the baseline. We discuss the importance of in-store research into three conversions to enable further development of impression management and the use of environmental cues for healthy food promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Magne Larsen
- Department of Business and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Harstad, Norway
| | - Valdimar Sigurdsson
- Department of Business Administration, Reyjavik University, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Didrik Gunnarsson
- Department of Business Administration, Reyjavik University, Reykjavik, Iceland
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17
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Muir S, Dhuria P, Vogel C. Government must proceed with landmark anti-obesity regulations in England. BMJ 2022; 378:o2358. [PMID: 36180089 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.o2358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Muir
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Preeti Dhuria
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Christina Vogel
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK
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18
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Rogus S, Guthrie J, Niculescu M, Xu L. The impact of a healthy checkout intervention on fruit and vegetable 'micro-pack' purchases in New Mexico. Public Health Nutr 2022; 25:1-9. [PMID: 36093640 PMCID: PMC9991551 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980022002026] [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: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Produce sold as plastic-wrapped packs of two to four individual items (i.e., produce micro-packs) that are low cost and placed at checkout may appeal to shoppers with budget constraints and provide a second chance to purchase items available elsewhere in the store. This study examined the impact of an intervention that placed produce micro-packs at checkout and promoted them in grocery stores across New Mexico, USA. DESIGN This quasi-experimental study placed produce micro-packs at checkout end-caps in thirteen stores (group 1), with eight stores serving as controls (group 2) from 1 July 2019 through 31 January 2020 (first phase). The intervention was extended to group 2 stores from 1 February 2020 through 30 June 2020 (second phase). Cashiers were directed to upsell the micro-packs to Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children recipients who had unspent cash value benefits for produce purchases. SETTING Twenty-one grocery stores across New Mexico. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-one produce items sold as micro-packs in stores from July 2019 through June 2020. RESULTS A random effects model showed that the daily sales of micro-packs increased by 47 % during each intervention period. Group 2 stores had lower sales than group 1 stores during the first phase of the intervention. Once extended to group 2 stores, sales of micro-packs in those stores increased and sales in group 1 stores continued at the higher level. CONCLUSIONS Placing produce micro-packs at checkout may increase produce sales and support health promotion efforts by public and private stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Rogus
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, New Mexico State University, MSC 3470, P.O. Box 30003, Las Cruces, NM88003, USA
| | - Joanne Guthrie
- Economic Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Mihai Niculescu
- Marketing Department, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, USA
| | - Lina Xu
- Marketing Department, The Pennsylvania State University, Abington, PA, USA
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Fildes A, Lally P, Morris MA, Dalton A, Croker H. Impact on purchasing behaviour of implementing ‘junk free checkouts’: A pre‐post study. NUTR BULL 2022; 47:333-345. [DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Phillippa Lally
- Research Department of Behavioural Science and Health University College London London UK
| | - Michelle A. Morris
- Leeds Institute for Data Analytics & School of Medicine University of Leeds Leeds UK
| | - Alexandra Dalton
- Leeds Institute for Data Analytics & School of Medicine University of Leeds Leeds UK
| | - Helen Croker
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, UCL Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department London UK
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20
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Dunford EK, Popkin B, Ng SW. Junk Food Intake Among Adults in the United States. J Nutr 2022; 152:492-500. [PMID: 34224563 PMCID: PMC8826924 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxab205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no consensus on how to define "junk food." In 2016, Chile implemented the most comprehensive set of obesity-preventive regulations in the world, including criteria to define unhealthy foods. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to examine the amount of energy, sodium, sugar, and saturated fat consumed by US adults defined as junk food using the Chilean criteria. METHODS We used 2 nationally representative surveys of food intake in 10,001 US adults: NHANES 2015-2016 and NHANES 2017-2018. The main outcome measures were the contributions of energy, total sugars, saturated fat, and sodium deriving from junk food sources. Mean intake and proportion of energy, sugar, saturated fat, and sodium for junk food overall and each food category were calculated. RESULTS Overall, 47% of energy, 75% of total sugar, 46% of sodium, and 48% of saturated fat consumed by US adults derived from junk food sources. Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) were responsible for more than 40% of total sugar intake deriving from junk foods. Non-Hispanic black adults had the highest mean energy, total sugar, and sodium intake deriving from junk foods, with non-Hispanic white adults having the highest saturated fat intake. Non-Hispanic black adults had the highest intake of total sugar deriving from junk food sources of SSBs (26.7 g/d), with SSBs representing >40% of total sugar intake deriving from junk food sources for all race/ethnic groups. CONCLUSIONS Foods that meet the Chilean criteria for junk food provide approximately half or more daily energy and food components to limit in the diet of US adults, with important differences observed between race/ethnic groups. Policy efforts to reduce junk food intake, particularly the intake of SSBs, must be expanded to improve the cardiometabolic health equitably in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth K Dunford
- Food Policy Division, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings Global School of Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Barry Popkin
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings Global School of Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Carolina Population Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Shu Wen Ng
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings Global School of Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Carolina Population Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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21
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Kronrod A, Hammar ME, Lee J, Thind HK, Mangano KM. Linguistic Delight Promotes Eating Right: Figurative Language Increases Perceived Enjoyment and Encourages Healthier Food Choices. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 36:1898-1908. [PMID: 32799571 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2020.1805231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The link between poor diet and poor health is well-known. Nevertheless, 90% of Americans are not meeting current dietary guidelines, avoiding nutrient dense foods like vegetables, and opting for high-calorie foods. One of the reasons for this behavior is that healthy options are often considered less enjoyable, compared with less healthy options. Addressing this issue, the current work tests the effectiveness of a novel approach to encourage consumption of healthier options. We explore the effectiveness of using figurative language (e.g., rhyme, metaphor) in naming food items on preference for these items. Research shows that figurative language induces pleasure and perceived enjoyment. Relying on this research, we propose that naming food figuratively will increase anticipated enjoyment with that food, as well as preference for that food. We tested this prediction in a large-scale field experiment at a university dining hall. We found that giving vegetable dishes figurative names (Tree of Life) significantly increased preference for those dishes, compared with literal names (Steamed Broccoli). A follow-up online experiment provided additional evidence in support of this assertion, demonstrating a preference for low-calorie menu options when they were named figuratively, and higher anticipated enjoyment with these options. The findings support the use of figurative language in naming healthy food dishes to influence food choice. The results also provide a psychological explanation for the effectiveness of figurative language in health communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Kronrod
- Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation, University of Massachusetts Lowell
| | - Mary E Hammar
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell
| | - JongSoo Lee
- Department of Mathematical Science, University of Massachusetts Lowell
| | | | - Kelsey M Mangano
- Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell
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22
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The Potential for Healthy Checkout Policies to Advance Nutrition Equity. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13114181. [PMID: 34836436 PMCID: PMC8618319 DOI: 10.3390/nu13114181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the only place in a store where all customers must pass through and wait, the checkout lane may be particularly influential over consumer purchases. Because most foods and beverages sold at checkout are unhealthy (e.g., candy, sweets, sugar-sweetened beverages, and salty snacks), policymakers and advocates have expressed growing interest in healthy checkout policies. To understand the extent to which such policies could improve nutrition equity, we assessed the prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of purchasing items found at (i.e., from) checkout. METHODS We assessed self-reported checkout purchasing and sociodemographic characteristics in a national convenience sample of adults (n = 10,348) completing an online survey in 2021. RESULTS Over one third (36%) of participants reported purchasing foods or drinks from checkout during their last grocery shopping trip. Purchasing items from checkout was more common among men; adults < 55 years of age; low-income consumers; Hispanic, non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native, and non-Hispanic Black consumers; those with a graduate or professional degree; parents; and consumers diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes (p-values < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Purchasing foods or beverages from store checkouts is common and more prevalent among low-income and Hispanic, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Black consumers. These results suggest that healthy checkout policies have the potential to improve nutrition equity.
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Ng SW, Colchero MA, White M. How should we evaluate sweetened beverage tax policies? A review of worldwide experience. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1941. [PMID: 34702248 PMCID: PMC8546197 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11984-2] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 45 jurisdictions globally have implemented sweetened beverage taxes. Researchers and policymakers need to assess whether and how these taxes change beverage demand and supply, their intended and unanticipated health, economic and equity impacts. Lessons from such evaluations can maximise the policies' success and impact on non-communicable disease prevention globally. We discuss key theoretical, design and methodological considerations to help policymakers, funders and researchers commission and conduct rigorous evaluations of these policies and related disease prevention efforts. We encourage involving the perspectives of various stakeholders on what evaluations are needed given the specific context, what data and methods are appropriate, readily available or can be collected within time and budget constraints. A logic model /conceptual system map of anticipated implications across sectors and scales should help identify optimal study design, analytical techniques and measures. These models should be updated when synthesising findings across diverse methods and integrating findings across subpopulations using similar methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Wen Ng
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #8120, 137 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516, USA.
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB#7461, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7461, USA.
| | - M Arantxa Colchero
- Center for Health Systems Research, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Universidad No 655 Colonia Santa María Ahuacatitlán, Cerrada Los Pinos y Caminera, CP, 62100, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Martin White
- Centre for Diet and Activity Research, MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Abstract
Efforts to guide peoples' behavior toward environmental sustainability, good health, or new products have emphasized informational and attitude change strategies. There is evidence that changing attitudes leads to changes in behavior, yet this approach takes insufficient account of the nature and operation of habits, which form boundary conditions for attitude-directed interventions. Integration of research on attitudes and habits might enable investigators to identify when and how behavior change strategies will be most effective. How might attitudinally driven behavior change be consolidated into lasting habits? How do habits protect the individual against the vicissitudes of attitudes and temptations and promote goal achievement? How might attitudinal approaches aiming to change habits be improved by capitalizing on habit discontinuities and strategic planning? When and how might changing or creating habit architecture shape habits directly? A systematic approach to these questions might help move behavior change efforts from attitude change strategies to habit change strategies. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Psychology, Volume 73 is January 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bas Verplanken
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, United Kingdom;
| | - Sheina Orbell
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, United Kingdom;
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Vogel C, Crozier S, Penn-Newman D, Ball K, Moon G, Lord J, Cooper C, Baird J. Altering product placement to create a healthier layout in supermarkets: Outcomes on store sales, customer purchasing, and diet in a prospective matched controlled cluster study. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003729. [PMID: 34491999 PMCID: PMC8423266 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous product placement trials in supermarkets are limited in scope and outcome data collected. This study assessed the effects on store-level sales, household-level purchasing, and dietary behaviours of a healthier supermarket layout. METHODS AND FINDINGS This is a prospective matched controlled cluster trial with 2 intervention components: (i) new fresh fruit and vegetable sections near store entrances (replacing smaller displays at the back) and frozen vegetables repositioned to the entrance aisle, plus (ii) the removal of confectionery from checkouts and aisle ends opposite. In this pilot study, the intervention was implemented for 6 months in 3 discount supermarkets in England. Three control stores were matched on store sales and customer profiles and neighbourhood deprivation. Women customers aged 18 to 45 years, with loyalty cards, were assigned to the intervention (n = 62) or control group (n = 88) of their primary store. The trial registration number is NCT03518151. Interrupted time series analysis showed that increases in store-level sales of fruits and vegetables were greater in intervention stores than predicted at 3 (1.71 standard deviations (SDs) (95% CI 0.45, 2.96), P = 0.01) and 6 months follow-up (2.42 SDs (0.22, 4.62), P = 0.03), equivalent to approximately 6,170 and approximately 9,820 extra portions per store, per week, respectively. The proportion of purchasing fruits and vegetables per week rose among intervention participants at 3 and 6 months compared to control participants (0.2% versus -3.0%, P = 0.22; 1.7% versus -3.5%, P = 0.05, respectively). Store sales of confectionery were lower in intervention stores than predicted at 3 (-1.05 SDs (-1.98, -0.12), P = 0.03) and 6 months (-1.37 SDs (-2.95, 0.22), P = 0.09), equivalent to approximately 1,359 and approximately 1,575 fewer portions per store, per week, respectively; no differences were observed for confectionery purchasing. Changes in dietary variables were predominantly in the expected direction for health benefit. Intervention implementation was not within control of the research team, and stores could not be randomised. It is a pilot study, and, therefore, not powered to detect an effect. CONCLUSIONS Healthier supermarket layouts can improve the nutrition profile of store sales and likely improve household purchasing and dietary quality. Placing fruits and vegetables near store entrances should be considered alongside policies to limit prominent placement of unhealthy foods. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03518151 (pre-results).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Vogel
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Crozier
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Penn-Newman
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Kylie Ball
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Graham Moon
- School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Lord
- Southampton Health Technology Assessments Centre, Wessex Institute, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Cyrus Cooper
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Janis Baird
- Medical Research Council Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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26
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Heilmann A, Ziller S. [Reducing sugar consumption to improve oral health-which strategies are effective?]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2021; 64:838-846. [PMID: 34014353 PMCID: PMC8241649 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-021-03349-2] [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: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Strategien zur Gesundheitsförderung können einen wesentlichen Beitrag leisten, um nichtübertragbare chronische Krankheiten zu verhindern. Die wesentlichen nichtübertragbaren Erkrankungen in der Zahnmedizin sind Zahnkaries und Parodontalerkrankungen. Zucker spielt sowohl bei der Entstehung von Zahnkaries als auch von Übergewicht und dessen Folgen für die Allgemeingesundheit eine ursächliche Rolle und ist daher als wichtige kommerzielle Gesundheitsdeterminante mehr und mehr ins Blickfeld von Wissenschaft und Gesundheitspolitik gerückt. Existierende Strategien zur Reduktion des Zuckerkonsums zielen jedoch häufig auf Maßnahmen zur individuellen Verhaltensänderung ab und lassen dabei die Rolle von gesellschaftlichen und kommerziellen Einflüssen außer Acht. In diesem Artikel beschreiben wir die aktuellen Empfehlungen der Weltgesundheitsorganisation (WHO) zum Zuckerkonsum, Daten zum Zuckerverzehr in Deutschland sowie die sozialen und kommerziellen Faktoren, welche den Zuckerkonsum beeinflussen. Grundlegende Prinzipien der Gesundheitsförderung werden dargelegt und sich daraus ergebende Strategien zur Zuckerreduzierung diskutiert. Dabei werden konkrete Beispiele für Upstream- und Downstream-Ansätze benannt und Möglichkeiten der Einflussnahme durch die zahnmedizinische Community in Politik und Praxis aufgezeigt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Heilmann
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, WC1E 6BT, London, Großbritannien.
| | - Sebastian Ziller
- Abteilung Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung, Bundeszahnärztekammer (BZÄK), Berlin, Deutschland
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27
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Van Dam I, Wood B, Sacks G, Allais O, Vandevijvere S. A detailed mapping of the food industry in the European single market: similarities and differences in market structure across countries and sectors. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2021; 18:54. [PMID: 33902639 PMCID: PMC8074488 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-021-01117-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Food environments are influenced by food industries (packaged food and non-alcoholic beverage manufacturers; supermarkets and quick service restaurants). An important source of this influence is the significant market power held by a limited number of food companies. Market structure analysis, as part of a broader market power research agenda, has received limited attention from the public health community. The aim of this study was to analyse similarities and differences in market structure across countries and industries in the European Single Market. METHODS The companies with the largest market share at the national level for each industry were identified from Euromonitor sales data in 2017/18. The market structure was assessed by the following metrics: the number of global brand owners with ≥1% market share per country, the number of companies unique for one European Single Market member state, the most sold packaged food and non-alcoholic beverage categories, the number of quick-service restaurants and supermarkets per 1000 inhabitants and market concentration by means of the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) and the four firm concentration ratio (CR4). CR4-values > 40% and HHI-values > 2000 indicate concentrated markets with limited competition. RESULTS The leading packaged food and non-alcoholic beverage manufacturers and the most sold food and beverage product categories were similar across countries in Europe. The observed levels of concentration were however different. Average CR4-values ranged from 21 to 72% among packaged food product markets and 60 to 76% for non-alcoholic beverage product markets. Average CR4-values for quick service restaurants and supermarkets were 50 and 60%, respectively. Across European countries the same leading quick-service restaurants were identified, while this was not the case for supermarkets. CONCLUSIONS This study forms an important basis to understand key aspects of market structure of the European food industry, observing clear differences between food industries and European Single Market member states. This has potential implications for the implementation of food environment policies at different levels of jurisdiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Van Dam
- Sciensano, Service of Lifestyle and chronic diseases, Brussels, Belgium
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, UR ALISS, 94205 Ivry-sur-Seine, France
| | - Benjamin Wood
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220 Australia
| | - Gary Sacks
- Global Obesity Centre (GLOBE), Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220 Australia
| | - Olivier Allais
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, UR ALISS, 94205 Ivry-sur-Seine, France
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28
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Suppression, resolve, and habit in everyday financial behaviour. Behav Brain Sci 2021; 44:e45. [PMID: 33899732 DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x2000151x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Everyday financial behaviour involves inter-temporal choices, between saving, spending, and debt. Consumers do not always take these decisions to their best advantage. Ainslie's analysis of the means to willpower as suppression, resolve, and habit is potentially applicable to understanding and improving the decisions that consumers make. Some relevant research on these topics exists, and it is briefly reviewed here.
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29
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Slapø H, Schjøll A, Strømgren B, Sandaker I, Lekhal S. Efficiency of In-Store Interventions to Impact Customers to Purchase Healthier Food and Beverage Products in Real-Life Grocery Stores: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Foods 2021; 10:922. [PMID: 33922185 PMCID: PMC8146080 DOI: 10.3390/foods10050922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Grocery stores are important settings to promote healthier food and beverage choices. The present paper aims at reviewing the effectiveness of different types of in-store interventions and how they impact sales of different product category in real grocery stores. Systematic search was conducted in six databases. In-store interventions were categorized according to the framework by Kraak et al. (2017) into one or more of eight interventions (e.g., place, profile, portion, pricing, promotion, healthy default picks, prompting and proximity). This systematic theme-based review follows the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) data screening and selection. Thirty-six studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and 30 studies were included in the meta-analysis, representing 72 combinations of in-store interventions. The analysis demonstrates that interventions overall had small significant effect size (ES) using Cohen's d on food purchase behavior (d = 0.17, 95% CI [0.04, 0.09]), with largest ES for pricing (d = 0.21) and targeting fruits and vegetables (d = 0.28). Analysis of ES of in-store interventions show that pricing, and pricing combined with promotion and prompting, effectively impacted purchase behavior. Interventions significantly impacted both sales of healthy and unhealthy products and significantly increased sales of fruits and vegetables, healthy beverage and total volume of healthy products. Results should however be interpreted with some caution, given the relatively low quality of overall evidence and low number of studies and observations for some types of intervention. Further research exploring impact on different in-store interventions and targeting especially unhealthy products are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Slapø
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, P.O. BOX 4 St., Olavs plass, N-0130 Oslo, Norway; (B.S.); (I.S.)
- GreeNudge, Tordenskioldsgate 2, N-0160 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Alexander Schjøll
- Consumption Research Norway, Oslo Metropolitan University, P.O. BOX 4 St., Olavs plass, N-0130 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Børge Strømgren
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, P.O. BOX 4 St., Olavs plass, N-0130 Oslo, Norway; (B.S.); (I.S.)
| | - Ingunn Sandaker
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, P.O. BOX 4 St., Olavs plass, N-0130 Oslo, Norway; (B.S.); (I.S.)
| | - Samira Lekhal
- GreeNudge, Tordenskioldsgate 2, N-0160 Oslo, Norway;
- Morbid Obesity Centre, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Halfdan Wilhelmsens allé 17, 3116 Tønsberg, Norway
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30
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Hoenink JC, Stuber JM, Lakerveld J, Waterlander W, Beulens JWJ, Mackenbach JD. The effect of on-shelf sugar labeling on beverage sales in the supermarket: a comparative interrupted time series analysis of a natural experiment. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2021; 18:49. [PMID: 33823851 PMCID: PMC8025575 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-021-01114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nutrition labels show potential in increasing healthy food and beverage purchases, but their effectiveness seems to depend on the type of label, the targeted food category and the setting, and evidence on their impact in real-world settings is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an industry-designed on-shelf sugar label on the sales of beverages with no, low, medium and high sugar content implemented within a real-world supermarket. METHODS In week 17 of 2019, on-shelf sugar labels were implemented by a Dutch supermarket chain. Non-alcoholic beverages were classified using a traffic-light labeling system and included the beverage categories "green" for sugar free (< 1.25 g/250 ml), "blue" for low sugar (1.25-6.24 g/250 ml), "yellow" for medium sugar (6.25-13.5 g/250 ml) and "amber" for high sugar (> 13.5 g/250 ml). Store-level data on beverage sales and revenue from 41 randomly selected supermarkets for 13 weeks pre-implementation and 21 weeks post-implementation were used for analysis. In total, 30 stores implemented the on-shelf sugar labels by week 17, and the 11 stores that had not were used as comparisons. Outcome measures were differences in the number of beverages sold in the four label categories and the total revenue from beverage sales in implementation stores relative to comparison stores. Analyses were conducted using a multiple-group Interrupted Time Series Approach. Results of individual store data were combined using random effect meta-analyses. RESULTS At the end of the intervention period, the changes in sales of beverages with green (B 3.4, 95%CI -0.3; 7.0), blue (B 0.0, 95%CI -0.6; 0.7), yellow (B 1.3, 95%CI -0.9; 3.5), and amber (B 0.9, 95%CI -5.5; 7.3) labels were not significantly different between intervention and comparison stores. The changes in total revenues for beverages at the end of the intervention period were also not significantly different between intervention and comparison stores. CONCLUSION The implementation of an on-shelf sugar labeling system did not significantly decrease unhealthy beverage sales or significantly increase healthier beverage sales. Nutrition labeling initiatives combined with complementary strategies, such as pricing strategies or other healthy food nudging approaches, should be considered to promote healthier beverage purchases.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Hoenink
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. .,Upstream Team, www.upstreamteam.nl, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - J M Stuber
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Upstream Team, www.upstreamteam.nl, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J Lakerveld
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Upstream Team, www.upstreamteam.nl, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - W Waterlander
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J W J Beulens
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Upstream Team, www.upstreamteam.nl, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 100, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J D Mackenbach
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Upstream Team, www.upstreamteam.nl, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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31
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Howse E, Hankey C, Bauman A, Freeman B. Are young adults' discussions of public health nutrition policies associated with common food industry discourses? A qualitative pilot study. Aust N Z J Public Health 2021; 45:171-180. [PMID: 33617122 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13074] [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: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Unhealthy diets are a key risk factor for chronic disease, with young adults (18-30 years old) in high-income countries like Australia and the UK particularly at risk. Improved public health nutrition policies can help address unhealthy diets in the population, but many of the more regulatory policies are opposed by food industry groups. This research explores how young adults in Australia and the UK discuss a range of topical public health nutrition policies and analyses whether and how their views may be associated with food industry discourses. METHODS Eight focus groups were held in Sydney, Australia, and Glasgow, UK, with a total of thirty young adults participating. A deliberative-style method was used in the focus groups to generate discussion about six public health nutrition policies, such as taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages and restrictions on advertising of less-healthy foods. Discourse analysis was used to examine participants' discussions. RESULTS Twenty discourse codes were developed iteratively from the focus group data. These were thematically linked with nine food industry discourses found in the peer-reviewed literature, including industry self-regulation, personal responsibility, corporate social responsibility and challenging nutrition science. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate there is an association between common food industry discourses and some young adults' views about public health nutrition policies. Implications for public health: Identifying, engaging with and responding to common industry discourses is a priority in order to build greater public support and acceptability of policies that will improve diet and prevent chronic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise Howse
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, Prevention Research Collaboration, New South Wales.,The Australian Prevention Partnership Centre, The Sax Institute, New South Wales
| | - Catherine Hankey
- University of Glasgow, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Bauman
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, Prevention Research Collaboration, New South Wales.,The Australian Prevention Partnership Centre, The Sax Institute, New South Wales
| | - Becky Freeman
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, Prevention Research Collaboration, New South Wales
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32
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Trafford EP, de la Hunty A. A gentle nudge: Can choice architecture play a role in retailers’ efforts to promote healthier choices? NUTR BULL 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/nbu.12484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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33
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Shaw SC, Ntani G, Baird J, Vogel CA. A systematic review of the influences of food store product placement on dietary-related outcomes. Nutr Rev 2020; 78:1030-1045. [PMID: 32483615 PMCID: PMC7666915 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuaa024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Product placement strategies have been used to influence customers' food purchases in food stores for some time; however, assessment of the evidence that these techniques can limit unhealthy, and promote healthy, food choices has not been completed. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aimed to determine how product placement strategies, availability, and positioning, in physical retail food stores located in high-income countries, influence dietary-related behaviors. DATA SOURCES From a search of 9 databases, 38 articles, 17 observational studies, and 22 intervention studies met the study inclusion criteria. DATA EXTRACTION Two reviewers independently extracted data relating to study design, study population, exposures, outcomes, and key results. Each study was also assessed for risk of bias in relation to the research question. DATA ANALYSIS Meta-analysis was not possible owing to heterogeneous study designs and outcomes. As recommended by Cochrane, results were synthesized in effect direction plots using a vote-counting technique which recorded the direction of effect and significance level according to the expected relationship for health improvement. CONCLUSIONS The majority of studies showed that greater availability and more prominent positioning of healthy foods, or reduced availability and less prominent positioning of unhealthy foods, related to better dietary-related behaviors. A large number of results, however, were nonsignificant, which likely reflects the methodological difficulties inherent in this research field. Adequately powered intervention studies that test both the independent and additive effects of availability and positioning strategies are needed. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. 42016048826.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Shaw
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Georgia Ntani
- UK Arthritis Research UK/MRC Centre for Musculoskeletal Health and Work, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Janis Baird
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Christina A Vogel
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
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34
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Huitink M, Poelman MP, Seidell JC, Kuijper LDJ, Hoekstsra T, Dijkstra C. Can Healthy Checkout Counters Improve Food Purchases? Two Real-Life Experiments in Dutch Supermarkets. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228611. [PMID: 33228189 PMCID: PMC7699573 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Most snacks displayed at supermarket checkouts do not contribute to a healthy diet. We investigated the effects of introducing healthier snack alternatives at checkouts in supermarkets on purchasing behavior. In Study 1, we investigated the effect of completely substituting less healthy with healthier snacks (one supermarket). In Study 2, we investigated the effect of placing and discounting healthier snacks while the less healthy snacks remain in place (two supermarkets). In both studies, the number of purchased snacks (per 1000 customers) was used as the outcome variable. Results for Study 1 showed that the absolute number of purchased checkout snacks was 2.4 times lower (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9-2.7) when healthier snacks instead of less healthy snacks were placed at the supermarket checkouts. Results for Study 2 showed that when additional healthier snacks were placed near the checkouts, the absolute number of healthier purchased snacks increased by a factor of 2.1 (95% CI: 1.3-3.3). When additional healthier snacks were placed near the checkouts and discounted, the absolute number of healthier purchased snacks increased by a factor of 2.7 (95% CI: 2.0-3.6), although this was not statistically significant higher than placement only (ratio: 1.1, 95% CI: 0.7-1.9). Purchases of less healthy snacks did not decline, and even slightly increased, during the intervention period (ratio: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1-1.5). If supermarkets want to promote healthier snack purchases, additional healthier products can be positioned near the checkouts. However, this does not discourages the purchase of less healthy snacks. Therefore, to discourage unhealthy snack purchases at supermarket checkouts, a total substitution of less healthy snacks with healthier alternatives is most effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlijn Huitink
- Department of Health Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.C.S.); (L.D.J.K.); (T.H.); (C.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maartje P. Poelman
- Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Wageningen University & Research, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN Wageningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Jacob C. Seidell
- Department of Health Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.C.S.); (L.D.J.K.); (T.H.); (C.D.)
| | - Lothar D. J. Kuijper
- Department of Health Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.C.S.); (L.D.J.K.); (T.H.); (C.D.)
| | - Trynke Hoekstsra
- Department of Health Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.C.S.); (L.D.J.K.); (T.H.); (C.D.)
| | - Coosje Dijkstra
- Department of Health Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (J.C.S.); (L.D.J.K.); (T.H.); (C.D.)
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Bazo-Alvarez JC, Morris TP, Pham TM, Carpenter JR, Petersen I. Handling Missing Values in Interrupted Time Series Analysis of Longitudinal Individual-Level Data. Clin Epidemiol 2020; 12:1045-1057. [PMID: 33116899 PMCID: PMC7549500 DOI: 10.2147/clep.s266428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the interrupted time series (ITS) approach, it is common to average the outcome of interest at each time point and then perform a segmented regression (SR) analysis. In this study, we illustrate that such 'aggregate-level' analysis is biased when data are missing at random (MAR) and provide alternative analysis methods. METHODS Using electronic health records from the UK, we evaluated weight change over time induced by the initiation of antipsychotic treatment. We contrasted estimates from aggregate-level SR analysis against estimates from mixed models with and without multiple imputation of missing covariates, using individual-level data. Then, we conducted a simulation study for insight about the different results in a controlled environment. RESULTS Aggregate-level SR analysis suggested a substantial weight gain after initiation of treatment (average short-term weight change: 0.799kg/week) compared to mixed models (0.412kg/week). Simulation studies confirmed that aggregate-level SR analysis was biased when data were MAR. In simulations, mixed models gave less biased estimates than SR analysis and, in combination with multilevel multiple imputation, provided unbiased estimates. Mixed models with multiple imputation can be used with other types of ITS outcomes (eg, proportions). Other standard methods applied in ITS do not help to correct this bias problem. CONCLUSION Aggregate-level SR analysis can bias the ITS estimates when individual-level data are MAR, because taking averages of individual-level data before SR means that data at the cluster level are missing not at random. Avoiding the averaging-step and using mixed models with or without multilevel multiple imputation of covariates is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Bazo-Alvarez
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London (UCL), London, UK
- Instituto de Investigación, Universidad Católica Los Ángeles de Chimbote, Chimbote, Peru
| | | | | | - James R Carpenter
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, London, UK
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Irene Petersen
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London (UCL), London, UK
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Reynolds JP, Vasiljevic M, Pilling M, Hall MG, Ribisl KM, Marteau TM. Communicating Evidence about the Causes of Obesity and Support for Obesity Policies: Two Population-Based Survey Experiments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186539. [PMID: 32911776 PMCID: PMC7559841 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Public support for numerous obesity policies is low, which is one barrier to their implementation. One reason for this low support is the tendency to ascribe obesity to failings of willpower as opposed to the environment. Correlational evidence supports this position. However, the experimental evidence is mixed. In two experimental studies, participants were randomised to receive no message, messages about the environment's influence on obesity (Study 1 & 2), or messages about the environment's influence on human behaviour (Study 1). We investigated whether communicating these messages changed support for obesity policies and beliefs about the causes of obesity. Participants were recruited from nationally representative samples in Great Britain (Study 1 & 2) and the USA (Study 2) (total n = 4391). Study 2 was designed to replicate existing research. Neither study found evidence that communicating the messages increased support for obesity policies or strengthened beliefs about the environment's role in obesity. Study 2, therefore, did not replicate two earlier experimental studies. Instead, the studies reported here suggest that people's beliefs about the causes of obesity are resistant to change in response to evidence and are, therefore, not a promising avenue to increase support for obesity policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P. Reynolds
- Behaviour and Health Research Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK; (M.V.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (J.P.R.); (T.M.M.)
| | - Milica Vasiljevic
- Behaviour and Health Research Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK; (M.V.); (M.P.)
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Mark Pilling
- Behaviour and Health Research Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK; (M.V.); (M.P.)
| | - Marissa G. Hall
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA; (M.G.H.); (K.M.R.)
- Department of Health Behaviour, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 275599, USA
| | - Kurt M. Ribisl
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA; (M.G.H.); (K.M.R.)
- Department of Health Behaviour, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 275599, USA
| | - Theresa M. Marteau
- Behaviour and Health Research Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK; (M.V.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (J.P.R.); (T.M.M.)
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Griffith R, O'Connell M, Smith K, Stroud R. What's on the Menu? Policies to Reduce Young People's Sugar Consumption. FISCAL STUDIES 2020; 41:165-197. [PMID: 32612314 PMCID: PMC7319480 DOI: 10.1111/1475-5890.12194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Young people in the UK consume far above the maximum recommended levels of added sugar. It is likely that neither they nor their parents fully take account of the future health, social and economic costs of this high sugar consumption. This provides a rationale for policy intervention. The majority of young people's added sugar consumption occurs in the home, where purchases are typically made by parents. This means that understanding the purchase decisions of adults is important for policy design, even if the policies aim to reduce the consumption of young people. We discuss the merits of popular policies, including taxes, advertising restrictions and restrictions on the availability of specific foods, and we identify promising avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kate Smith
- Institute for Fiscal StudiesUniversity College London
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Raghoebar S, van Rongen S, Lie R, de Vet E. Identifying social norms in physical aspects of food environments: A photo study. Appetite 2019; 143:104414. [PMID: 31445992 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2019.104414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that physical food environments can contribute to unhealthy eating, but less is known about how physical cues in these environments actually stimulate eating. Our study starts from the assumption that social norms are embedded in physical cues and aims to make an inventory of physical cues that communicate what is socially accepted as normal and/or appropriate to eat in a Dutch outside-the-home food context. In Study 1, we conducted a qualitative study in which photographs taken in self-service food environments were analyzed using strategies from photo documentation and semiology. Grounded theory was applied to identify a wide variety of specific physical cues that were ultimately grouped into 18 higher level categories of physical cues (e.g. consumption traces, product availability). Most cue categories were associated with either descriptive or injunctive social norms, but some were associated with both types. In Study 2, we aimed to quantitatively cross-validate the social norm interpretations among laypeople (N = 173) by focusing on two selected photographs. More than half of the physical cues that participants identified in these photographs as being influential had been identified in Study 1 as cues bearing a normative message. The results further indicated that other people's behavior is easier to recognize in physical food environments than signals about what ought to be done. Given the great variety of identified physical cues associated with social norms, we posit that social norms are widely embedded in food environments and might guide eating behavior. Further research should study the effects of these cues on behavior and test whether the underlying process can be attributed to social norm interpretations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Raghoebar
- Chair Group Strategic Communication, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Sofie van Rongen
- Chair Group Strategic Communication, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Rico Lie
- Chair Group Knowledge, Technology and Innovation, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Emely de Vet
- Chair Group Strategic Communication, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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Ford A, Eadie D, Adams J, Adamson A, White M, Stead M. Parents' and carers' awareness and perceptions of UK supermarket policies on less healthy food at checkouts: A qualitative study. Appetite 2019; 147:104541. [PMID: 31778731 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2019.104541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the retail environment strategic placement of food influences purchasing. Foods placed at checkouts have tended to be less healthy. In response to consumer concern some UK supermarkets voluntarily committed to removing less healthy food from their checkouts. We explored qualitatively the perceptions and experiences of parents and carers of younger children regarding food at supermarket checkouts, supermarket checkout food policies, and other supermarket stimuli which influences purchasing. METHODS Twelve focus groups were conducted in urban central Scotland with 91 parents/carers of primary school aged children (aged 5-11 years). RESULTS The availability of less healthy foods at checkouts was perceived as problematic, encouraging purchase requests by children and impulse buys by adults. Parents/carers were aware of a change in some supermarkets where less healthy foods had been replaced with healthier items and they were supportive of supermarket policies that placed restrictions on checkout food. Many parents/carers welcomed product-free checkouts, however the whole supermarket was perceived as manipulative and stimulating. CONCLUSION Voluntary supermarket policies which clearly and consistently restrict the placement of less healthy foods at checkouts have been welcomed by parents/carers of young children. Given that marketing strategies throughout the whole supermarket were viewed as problematic, public health policymakers and advocacy groups may want to encourage supermarkets to develop broader policies to support healthier food purchasing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Ford
- Institute for Social Marketing, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
| | - Douglas Eadie
- Institute for Social Marketing, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Jean Adams
- Centre for Diet and Activity Research, MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Ashley Adamson
- Fuse-the Centre for Translational Research in Public Health and Institute of Health & Society, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Martin White
- Centre for Diet and Activity Research, MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Martine Stead
- Institute for Social Marketing, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
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Hollands GJ, Carter P, Anwer S, King SE, Jebb SA, Ogilvie D, Shemilt I, Higgins JPT, Marteau TM. Altering the availability or proximity of food, alcohol, and tobacco products to change their selection and consumption. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 9:CD012573. [PMID: 31482606 PMCID: PMC6953356 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012573.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overconsumption of food, alcohol, and tobacco products increases the risk of non-communicable diseases. Interventions to change characteristics of physical micro-environments where people may select or consume these products - including shops, restaurants, workplaces, and schools - are of considerable public health policy and research interest. This review addresses two types of intervention within such environments: altering the availability (the range and/or amount of options) of these products, or their proximity (the distance at which they are positioned) to potential consumers. OBJECTIVES 1. To assess the impact on selection and consumption of altering the availability or proximity of (a) food (including non-alcoholic beverages), (b) alcohol, and (c) tobacco products.2. To assess the extent to which the impact of these interventions is modified by characteristics of: i. studies, ii. interventions, and iii. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and seven other published or grey literature databases, as well as trial registries and key websites, up to 23 July 2018, followed by citation searches. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials with between-participants (parallel group) or within-participants (cross-over) designs. Eligible studies compared effects of exposure to at least two different levels of availability of a product or its proximity, and included a measure of selection or consumption of the manipulated product. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used a novel semi-automated screening workflow and applied standard Cochrane methods to select eligible studies, collect data, and assess risk of bias. In separate analyses for availability interventions and proximity interventions, we combined results using random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regression models to estimate summary effect sizes (as standardised mean differences (SMDs)) and to investigate associations between summary effect sizes and selected study, intervention, or participant characteristics. We rated the certainty of evidence for each outcome using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS We included 24 studies, with the majority (20/24) giving concerns about risk of bias. All of the included studies investigated food products; none investigated alcohol or tobacco. The majority were conducted in laboratory settings (14/24), with adult participants (17/24), and used between-participants designs (19/24). All studies were conducted in high-income countries, predominantly in the USA (14/24).Six studies investigated availability interventions, of which two changed the absolute number of different options available, and four altered the relative proportion of less-healthy (to healthier) options. Most studies (4/6) manipulated snack foods or drinks. For selection outcomes, meta-analysis of three comparisons from three studies (n = 154) found that exposure to fewer options resulted in a large reduction in selection of the targeted food(s): SMD -1.13 (95% confidence interval (CI) -1.90 to -0.37) (low certainty evidence). For consumption outcomes, meta-analysis of three comparisons from two studies (n = 150) found that exposure to fewer options resulted in a moderate reduction in consumption of those foods, but with considerable uncertainty: SMD -0.55 (95% CI -1.27 to 0.18) (low certainty evidence).Eighteen studies investigated proximity interventions. Most (14/18) changed the distance at which a snack food or drink was placed from the participants, whilst four studies changed the order of meal components encountered along a line. For selection outcomes, only one study with one comparison (n = 41) was identified, which found that food placed farther away resulted in a moderate reduction in its selection: SMD -0.65 (95% CI -1.29 to -0.01) (very low certainty evidence). For consumption outcomes, meta-analysis of 15 comparisons from 12 studies (n = 1098) found that exposure to food placed farther away resulted in a moderate reduction in its consumption: SMD -0.60 (95% CI -0.84 to -0.36) (low certainty evidence). Meta-regression analyses indicated that this effect was greater: the farther away the product was placed; when only the targeted product(s) was available; when participants were of low deprivation status; and when the study was at high risk of bias. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The current evidence suggests that changing the number of available food options or altering the positioning of foods could contribute to meaningful changes in behaviour, justifying policy actions to promote such changes within food environments. However, the certainty of this evidence as assessed by GRADE is low or very low. To enable more certain and generalisable conclusions about these potentially important effects, further research is warranted in real-world settings, intervening across a wider range of foods - as well as alcohol and tobacco products - and over sustained time periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth J Hollands
- University of CambridgeBehaviour and Health Research UnitForvie SiteRobinson WayCambridgeUKCB2 0SR
| | - Patrice Carter
- University College LondonCentre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness1‐19 Torrington PlaceLondonUKWC1E 7HB
| | - Sumayya Anwer
- University of BristolPopulation Health Sciences, Bristol Medical SchoolCanynge Hall, 39 Whatley RoadBristolUKBS8 2PS
| | - Sarah E King
- University of CambridgeBehaviour and Health Research UnitForvie SiteRobinson WayCambridgeUKCB2 0SR
| | - Susan A Jebb
- University of OxfordNuffield Department of Primary Care Health SciencesRadcliffe Observatory QuarterWoodstock RoadOxfordOxfordshireUKOX2 6GG
| | - David Ogilvie
- University of CambridgeMRC Epidemiology UnitBox 285Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUKCB2 0QQ
| | - Ian Shemilt
- University College LondonEPPI‐Centre10 Woburn SquareLondonUKWC1H 0NR
| | - Julian P T Higgins
- University of BristolPopulation Health Sciences, Bristol Medical SchoolCanynge Hall, 39 Whatley RoadBristolUKBS8 2PS
| | - Theresa M Marteau
- University of CambridgeBehaviour and Health Research UnitForvie SiteRobinson WayCambridgeUKCB2 0SR
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Hollands GJ, Carter P, Anwer S, King SE, Jebb SA, Ogilvie D, Shemilt I, Higgins JPT, Marteau TM. Altering the availability or proximity of food, alcohol, and tobacco products to change their selection and consumption. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 8:CD012573. [PMID: 31452193 PMCID: PMC6710643 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012573.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overconsumption of food, alcohol, and tobacco products increases the risk of non-communicable diseases. Interventions to change characteristics of physical micro-environments where people may select or consume these products - including shops, restaurants, workplaces, and schools - are of considerable public health policy and research interest. This review addresses two types of intervention within such environments: altering the availability (the range and/or amount of options) of these products, or their proximity (the distance at which they are positioned) to potential consumers. OBJECTIVES 1. To assess the impact on selection and consumption of altering the availability or proximity of (a) food (including non-alcoholic beverages), (b) alcohol, and (c) tobacco products.2. To assess the extent to which the impact of these interventions is modified by characteristics of: i. studies, ii. interventions, and iii. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and seven other published or grey literature databases, as well as trial registries and key websites, up to 23 July 2018, followed by citation searches. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials with between-participants (parallel group) or within-participants (cross-over) designs. Eligible studies compared effects of exposure to at least two different levels of availability of a product or its proximity, and included a measure of selection or consumption of the manipulated product. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used a novel semi-automated screening workflow and applied standard Cochrane methods to select eligible studies, collect data, and assess risk of bias. In separate analyses for availability interventions and proximity interventions, we combined results using random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regression models to estimate summary effect sizes (as standardised mean differences (SMDs)) and to investigate associations between summary effect sizes and selected study, intervention, or participant characteristics. We rated the certainty of evidence for each outcome using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS We included 24 studies, with the majority (20/24) giving concerns about risk of bias. All of the included studies investigated food products; none investigated alcohol or tobacco. The majority were conducted in laboratory settings (14/24), with adult participants (17/24), and used between-participants designs (19/24). All studies were conducted in high-income countries, predominantly in the USA (14/24).Six studies investigated availability interventions, of which two changed the absolute number of different options available, and four altered the relative proportion of less-healthy (to healthier) options. Most studies (4/6) manipulated snack foods or drinks. For selection outcomes, meta-analysis of three comparisons from three studies (n = 154) found that exposure to fewer options resulted in a large reduction in selection of the targeted food(s): SMD -1.13 (95% confidence interval (CI) -1.90 to -0.37) (low certainty evidence). For consumption outcomes, meta-analysis of three comparisons from two studies (n = 150) found that exposure to fewer options resulted in a moderate reduction in consumption of those foods, but with considerable uncertainty: SMD -0.55 (95% CI -1.27 to 0.18) (low certainty evidence).Eighteen studies investigated proximity interventions. Most (14/18) changed the distance at which a snack food or drink was placed from the participants, whilst four studies changed the order of meal components encountered along a line. For selection outcomes, only one study with one comparison (n = 41) was identified, which found that food placed farther away resulted in a moderate reduction in its selection: SMD -0.65 (95% CI -1.29 to -0.01) (very low certainty evidence). For consumption outcomes, meta-analysis of 15 comparisons from 12 studies (n = 1098) found that exposure to food placed farther away resulted in a moderate reduction in its consumption: SMD -0.60 (95% CI -0.84 to -0.36) (low certainty evidence). Meta-regression analyses indicated that this effect was greater: the farther away the product was placed; when only the targeted product(s) was available; when participants were of low deprivation status; and when the study was at high risk of bias. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The current evidence suggests that changing the number of available food options or altering the positioning of foods could contribute to meaningful changes in behaviour, justifying policy actions to promote such changes within food environments. However, the certainty of this evidence as assessed by GRADE is low or very low. To enable more certain and generalisable conclusions about these potentially important effects, further research is warranted in real-world settings, intervening across a wider range of foods - as well as alcohol and tobacco products - and over sustained time periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth J Hollands
- University of CambridgeBehaviour and Health Research UnitForvie SiteRobinson WayCambridgeUKCB2 0SR
| | - Patrice Carter
- University College LondonCentre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness1‐19 Torrington PlaceLondonUKWC1E 7HB
| | - Sumayya Anwer
- University of BristolPopulation Health Sciences, Bristol Medical SchoolCanynge Hall, 39 Whatley RoadBristolUKBS8 2PS
| | - Sarah E King
- University of CambridgeBehaviour and Health Research UnitForvie SiteRobinson WayCambridgeUKCB2 0SR
| | - Susan A Jebb
- University of OxfordNuffield Department of Primary Care Health SciencesRadcliffe Observatory QuarterWoodstock RoadOxfordUKOX2 6GG
| | - David Ogilvie
- University of CambridgeMRC Epidemiology UnitBox 285Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUKCB2 0QQ
| | - Ian Shemilt
- University College LondonEPPI‐Centre10 Woburn SquareLondonUKWC1H 0NR
| | - Julian P T Higgins
- University of BristolPopulation Health Sciences, Bristol Medical SchoolCanynge Hall, 39 Whatley RoadBristolUKBS8 2PS
| | - Theresa M Marteau
- University of CambridgeBehaviour and Health Research UnitForvie SiteRobinson WayCambridgeUKCB2 0SR
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Current opportunities to catalyze research in nutrition and cancer prevention - an interdisciplinary perspective. BMC Med 2019; 17:148. [PMID: 31357989 PMCID: PMC6664739 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-019-1383-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer Research UK and Ludwig Cancer Research convened an inaugural international Cancer Prevention and Nutrition Conference in London on December 3-4, 2018. Much of the discussion focused on the need for systematic, interdisciplinary approaches to better understand the relationships of nutrition, exercise, obesity and metabolic dysfunction with cancer development. Scientists at the meeting underscored the importance of studying the temporal natural history of exposures that may cumulatively impact cancer risk later in life.A robust dialogue identified obesity as a major risk for cancer, and the food environment, especially high energy and low nutrient processed foods, as strong and prevalent risk factors for obesity. Further engagement highlighted challenges in the post-diagnostic setting, where similar opportunities to understand the complex interplay of nutrition, physical activity, and weight will inform better health outcomes.Going forward, holistic research approaches, encompassing insights from multiple disciplines and perspectives, will catalyze progress urgently needed to prevent cancer and improve public health.
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Hannan N, Dagher A. Sugar off the shelves. Br Dent J 2019; 226:241. [DOI: 10.1038/s41415-019-0039-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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44
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Seven days in medicine: 19-25 December 2018. BMJ 2018; 363:k5398. [PMID: 30593462 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.k5398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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