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Abstract
Chronic diseases are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the United States (U.S.). For most chronic diseases, obesity is a risk factor. Because approximately one in three adults in the U.S. has chronic disease, addressing the obesity epidemic with a population-based policy intervention is the most effective public health strategy. This study evaluates the federal menu-labeling policy to understand better the usefulness of the policy and the implications for addressing chronic disease and obesity rates. Using libertarian paternalism, I conducted an examination of the menu-labeling policy by analyzing the use of choice architecture and nudges to improve consumer purchase behavior when eating food away from home (FAFH).
Responses from 12,286 participants in the 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were used from Mississippi and West Virginia. Logistic regression models and chi-square tests indicated that individuals with diabetes and obesity were more likely to use menu-labeling than those with heart disease, had a heart attack, or stroke. Findings also indicated age, education, income and race/ethnicity were significant indicators of menu-labeling use.
The evaluation of the menu-labeling policy informs policymakers of the benefit of nudging policies as an intervention method to combat public health concerns. The results further highlight how this study can be used to inform modifications and development of future food policies, and guide intervention efforts aiming at addressing chronic disease and obesity rates.
INDEX WORDS: food away from home (FAFH), food policy, obesity, chronic disease, menu-labeling
Responses from 12,286 participants in the 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were used from Mississippi and West Virginia. Logistic regression models and chi-square tests indicated that individuals with diabetes and obesity were more likely to use menu-labeling than those with heart disease, had a heart attack, or stroke. Findings also indicated age, education, income and race/ethnicity were significant indicators of menu-labeling use.
The evaluation of the menu-labeling policy informs policymakers of the benefit of nudging policies as an intervention method to combat public health concerns. The results further highlight how this study can be used to inform modifications and development of future food policies, and guide intervention efforts aiming at addressing chronic disease and obesity rates.
INDEX WORDS: food away from home (FAFH), food policy, obesity, chronic disease, menu-labeling