We are certainly aware of the high number of less than healthy children’s snack foods and sugary beverages advertised on television, but are these products pitched to children or adults when they air? Emond et al. (doi/10.1542/peds.2015-2853) opted to study the content of what was said in children’s packaged food and beverage ads aired on network, cable and syndicated television over a one year period in regard to whether the target audience of the ads were parents or children. Patterns of airtime of types of ads as well as total airtime devoted to targeting parents were also reported in this interesting study. The results indicate that almost half of the 51 food and beverage products advertised aim their message to parents rather than to children with a focus on emotions such as love and family bonding. Just what products get promoted to parents more than others, and just how much this advertising can influence unhealthy eating choices by parents for their children, make for a most interesting discussion section of this article and leaves you with much food for thought—even if that food could be healthier than advertised. If you haven’t noticed children’s food advertising directed toward parents, you will after reading this study and digesting its findings. Stayed tuned into the journal and learn more.
