Branding Food Packages with Licensed Characters

An interesting study out of this month's Journal of Pediatrics looked at how putting characters (Mickey Mouse, Scooby-Doo, etc) onto food packages influenced the taste preferences of children between 4-6 years old. Not surprisingly, these characters substantially influenced the children, who showed a preference to the foods labeled with characters. The attraction was strongest when it came to energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods (such as fruit snacks). Two things seem pretty clear here, first, the FDA needs to restrict character branding of foods, especially junk foods. Second, if you are grocery shopping for your children, it may be best to avoid purchasing these types of foods, as it's clear a great majority of them are unhealthy.