Sweet Lies: Influence of Food Marketing on Childrens’ Health and the Need for Reform

Author

Mollie M. Warrington, University of MississippiFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2-26-2025

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Integrated Marketing Communication

First Advisor

Erin Holmes

Second Advisor

Stephanie Goodwiller

Third Advisor

Ellen Ossorio

Relational Format

Marketing policies

Abstract

Markedly, there is heavy marketing of unhealthy food to children. This has become a significant public health concern because of escalating rates of child obesity, which have long-term consequences for physical health and severe mental health repercussions, such as body image concerns and low self-esteem. This thesis explores how food marketing strategies, historically rooted in television ads and evolving through digital platforms, are linked to children's dietary choices and broader public health implications. It analyzes various manipulative tactics, such as digital advertising, influencer endorsement, and gamification, showing how companies take advantage of the cognitive vulnerabilities of children to propagate unhealthy consumption habits. By putting a historical perspective on the evolution of food marketing to children, the research underlines how these strategies have adapted over decades to maximize influence. The analysis draws from international case studies from Chile, the United Kingdom, and Canada, highlighting successes with regulatory measures and public health interventions to reduce the impacts of food marketing. These successes bring valuable lessons for addressing gaps in U.S. policies, where self-regulation by food companies has been unsuccessful in protecting children's health. Thus, the thesis proposes a more comprehensive approach that includes more rigid advertising regulations, mandatory media literacy and nutrition education, and community-based programs to develop healthier lifestyles, thereby reducing public health burdens and improving wellness for all future generations.

Recommended Citation

Warrington, Mollie M., "Sweet Lies: Influence of Food Marketing on Childrens’ Health and the Need for Reform" (2025). Honors Theses. 3209.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3209