Scientists are increasingly worried that the food-related content we see on social media will shape our views on food. Algorithms on social media platforms tend to promote the content that users interact with the most, so seeing more unhealthy foods means seeing more of them on our feeds. It's no surprise that many of us are tempted to try out the latest food trends we see on TikTok. Food and beverage companies are taking advantage of this by marketing their products to teens through social media.
This review aimed to explore the role of food and beverage advertisements on social networks in influencing adolescents' food choices by analyzing published literature. Tina Tessitore, Associate Professor of Marketing at the School of Management of the Institut d'Économie Scientifique Et de Gestion (IESEG) in Lille (France), points out that healthier foods are often seen as boring compared to processed foods, which are considered great. This is why bright, fun and exciting food and drink options can stand out on social media; influencers can easily alter public perceptions and drive trends.
