Impact of altering the available food options on selection: Potential mediation by social norms.

ABSTRACT: Increasing the availability of lower-energy foods increases their selection. The current studies examine the extent to which this effect could be mediated by social norms - assessed by perceived popularity of foods - which may be implied by their relative availability. Study 1 (Online): 2340 UK adults estimated the perceived popularity of products. Participants were randomised to see photos of cafeteria shelves varying in the availability of lower-energy options (¹/₄ lower-energy; ¹/₂ lower-energy; ³/₄ lower-energy) and fullness of shelves (fuller; emptier). Study 2 (Laboratory): 139 English adults were asked to select a snack. Participants were randomised to select from trays varying in the availability of the lower-energy

SUBMITTER: Pechey R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8214103 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature