Assessing 'fun foods': nutritional content and analysis of supermarket foods targeted at children

Obes Rev. 2008 Jul;9(4):368-77. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-789X.2007.00418.x. Epub 2007 Oct 24.

Abstract

This article provides a nutritional profile of foods targeted specifically at children in the Canadian supermarket. Excluding confectionery, soft drinks and bakery items, 367 products were assessed for their nutritional composition. The article examines the relationship between 'fun food' images/messages, product claims and actual product nutrition. Among other findings, it concludes that approximately 89% of the products analysed could be classified as of poor nutritional quality owing to high levels of sugar, fat and/or sodium. Policy considerations need to be made in light of the fact that 'fun food' is a unique category that poses special challenges; as such, recommendations regarding food labelling and packaging are presented.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Advertising*
  • Child
  • Child Nutrition Sciences*
  • Commerce*
  • Female
  • Food Analysis / methods*
  • Food Labeling
  • Food Packaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nutritive Value*
  • Persuasive Communication
  • Social Marketing
  • Television