The marketing of high-calorie and nutrient-poor foods and beverages is linked to overweight and obesity in the United States. American youths are still exposed to a disproportionate amount of marketing for unhealthy products across a variety of media and an examination of research and policy trends related to food and beverage marketing shows that industry self-regulation has not substantially improved children’s and adolescents’ exposure to marketing for unhealthy foods and beverages between 2006 and 2012. This research review examines recent trends in food marketing to children and adolescents, as well as policy initiatives undertaken to address the contribution of marketing practices to the childhood obesity epidemic. It builds upon the findings discussed in a Healthy Eating Research synthesis released in April 2011 and brief released in October 2008. Policy implications and future research needs are highlighted.
Published: February 2013
ID #: 1065
Publisher: Healthy Eating Research
Authors: Cheyne A, Gonzalez P, Mejia P, Dorfman L
Age Groups: Adolescents (grades 9 to 12), Elementary-age children (grades K to 5), Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5), Young adolescents (grades 6 to 8)
Race/Ethnicity: African American or Black, Latino(a) or Hispanic, Multi-racial/ethnic
Keywords: Competitive foods, Digital marketing, Fast food, Food advertising, Food formulation, Legal, Media, Nutrition standards, Self-regulation, Social media
Focus Areas: Food Marketing, School & After School
Resource Type: Research Review
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