Communicating effectively with consumers about the harms of ultra-processed foods...

Communicating effectively with consumers about the harms of ultra-processed foods to promote heart health

Dr Priscila Pereira Machado, Deakin University

2023 Vanguard Grant - One Year

Years funded: 2024 - 2025

Almost half of Australians’ diet comprises ultra-processed foods (UPFs). UPFs have been linked to increased risk of obesity, type-2 diabetes and heart diseases. People are eating more UPFs each year, many without being aware of their harms. This project aims to explore consumers' understanding of health risks associated with UPFs, and co-design and test with consumers a framework for developing tailored messages to reduce UPF consumption. This project will generate new knowledge on best approaches for communication about UPFs, particularly tailored to different priority groups. This has potential to increase nutrition literacy of the Australian population to reduce UPF consumption, and public support for policy actions targeting UPFs.