This study examines perceived healthiness and social norms surrounding sugary drinks across five countries (Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Mexico) using data from the International Food Policy Study (2018–2021). The research investigates how perceptions and norms influence sugary drink consumption trends.
Key findings:
Energy drinks, regular soft drinks, and diet soft drinks were most frequently perceived as unhealthy across all countries.
Mexico showed the largest shift in perceptions, with increasing odds of perceiving 100% juice, chocolate milk, and iced tea as unhealthy from 2018 to 2021.
Social norms discouraging sugary drink consumption were strongest in Mexico, where public health campaigns and policies have been more aggressive.
Individuals who perceived sugary drinks as unhealthy were less likely to consume them, though associations varied across countries.
The study underscores the role of social norms and health perceptions in shaping sugary drink consumption, suggesting policy-driven interventions can influence dietary behaviors.
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