Restaurant rewards program steers kids toward healthier meals

NCT ID NCT04334525

Completed Prevention Sponsor: State University of New York at Buffalo Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using special placemats that promote healthy kids' meals, combined with a reward card that offers a free meal after six healthy purchases, could encourage children ages 4-8 to choose healthier options at quick-service restaurants. Over 550 families participated across six restaurant locations. The goal was to see if these simple, low-cost strategies could improve children's meal choices and reduce calories, fat, and sugar ordered.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Choice architecture and repeated exposure (behavioral intervention using placemats and reward cards)
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could help families make healthier choices when eating out, potentially reducing childhood obesity and improving long-term eating habits.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study in just six restaurant locations, so results may not apply everywhere. The intervention is behavioral, so lasting change depends on continued use and family motivation.

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

DIET, HEALTHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

State University of New York at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York, 14214, United States

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