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Calorie Counts Mislead Consumers on Food Healthiness

5/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A recent study in the Journal of Retailing uncovers a surprising truth: calorie counts can distort our perception of food healthiness. Participants deemed unhealthy foods as less harmful when focusing on calories, creating confusion and eroding their confidence in making healthy choices. The findings urge for clearer labeling to empower consumers in their dietary decisions.

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Story summary

A recent study in the Journal of Retailing uncovers a surprising truth: calorie counts can distort our perception of food healthiness. Participants deemed unhealthy foods as less harmful when focusing on calories, creating confusion and eroding their confidence in making healthy choices. The findings urge for clearer labeling to empower consumers in their dietary decisions.