Can exposing food marketing tricks on instagram make young adults eat healthier?

NCT ID NCT07768488

NEW Not yet recruiting Prevention Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 17, 2026 · Last updated Aug 17, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether social media campaigns can improve diet quality in young adults aged 18-29 who frequently consume sugary drinks and snacks. Participants will see one of three Instagram campaigns: counter-marketing that exposes deceptive food industry practices, health education about sugary drinks and snacks, or neutral messages about safety. Researchers will measure changes in diet quality using 24-hour dietary recalls to see if these campaigns encourage healthier eating.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Counter-marketing campaign delivered via Instagram posts
What this could lead to: If effective, this approach could offer a scalable, low-cost way to improve eating habits and reduce chronic disease risk in young adults.
What could go wrong: The trial is early-stage and relies on self-reported diet recalls, which may not reflect actual intake. Effects may be short-lived or not generalize beyond this age group.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Communication nutritional disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

COMMUNICATION DIET INTERVENTION DIET QUALITY NUTRITION SOCIAL MEDIA YOUNG ADULTS

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