Impacts of Sugar Warnings on Weight Bias
Start Date
2/16/2026
Completion Date
12/1/2027
Summary
This study aims to examine the effects of added sugar warning labels for sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) on explicit weight bias and body weight attributional judgements. Participants will be assigned to view either control labels or added sugar warning labels applied on SSBs in an experimental store. Participants will shop for beverages in the store and take a computer survey during four visits to the store, spaced approximately one week apart.
Detailed Description
This study aims to determine whether applying added sugar warnings on sugary drinks impacts explicit weight bias and body weight attributional judgements. Approximately 543 adults (ages 18 and older) who have bought at least one SSB in the past week will attend four in-person visits at an experimental store, spaced approximately one week apart. Participants will be randomized to see either neutral control labels or added sugar labels on SSB containers during their visits to the experimental store. At each study visit, participants will shop for beverages in the store and take a computer survey. Explicit weight bias and attribution of responsibility for body weight will be assessed via the computer surveys at the first and last visit.
Eligibility Criteria
Age Range: 18 years to No maximum
Interventions
Control label
Added sugar warning
Conditions
Locations
UNC MiniMart Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514
United States