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Wisdom, Jessica,
Julie S. Downs, and
George Loewenstein. 2010. "Promoting Healthy Choices: Information versus Convenience."
,
2(2): 164-78.
Show Article Details
DOI: 10.1257/app.2.2.164
Abstract:Success in slowing obesity trends would benefit from policies aimed
at reducing calorie consumption. In a field experiment at a fast-food
sandwich chain, we address the effects of providing calorie information,
mimicking recent legislation, and test an alternative approach
that makes ordering healthier slightly more convenient. We find that
calorie information reduces calorie intake. Providing a daily calorie
target does as well, but only for non-overweight individuals. Making
healthy choices convenient reduces intake when the intervention is
strong. However, a milder implementation reduces sandwich calories,
but does not reduce total calories due to compensatory effects
on side orders and drinks. (JEL I12, I18, L81)
Additional links:
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Authors:
Wisdom, Jessica (Carnegie Mellon U)
Downs, Julie S. (Carnegie Mellon U)
Loewenstein, George (Carnegie Mellon U)
JEL Classifications:
I12: Health Production
I18: Health: Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
L81: Retail and Wholesale Trade; e-Commerce
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