Health warning labels similar to those found on tobacco products may have a powerful effect on whether parents purchase sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) for their children, according to a new study in Pediatrics led by the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. The study is the first of its kind to examine the influence of SSBs warning labels. Results show that regardless of a parent's level of education, they may be significantly less likely to purchase an SSBs when a label warning that consuming beverages with added sugar may contribute to obesity, diabetes and tooth decay is present, compared to a label that only bears the calorie count of the beverage, or no label at all.
Poll Question:
Do you agree that warning labels about the contribution of sugar-sweetened beverages to disease and tooth decay can effectively discourage consumers from buying these products?
Yes
136
No
84
