Linguistically Tailored Health Messages to Encourage Plant-Based Food Choices in Adolescents
This research is trying to find out the best way to help young people (aged 11-16) in the UK and Ireland eat more plant-based foods. They are testing whether daily messages, especially those designed to match a person's own way of speaking, are more effective than standard messages or no messages at all. Participants will get daily messages and answer short surveys about their food choices for two weeks. The goal is to understand if these specially designed messages can make a real difference in healthy and sustainable eating habits for teenagers. If successful, this could be a new way to promote healthier food choices in a relatable way.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study wants to learn how to encourage young people aged 11 to 16 in the UK and Ireland to choose more plant-based foods. Plant-based eating is not only good for our health but also better for the planet, so finding effective ways to promote it is important. The main idea behind this research is to see if everyday messages, when made to sound more like how a person naturally talks, are better at encouraging them to try these foods.
To do this, the researchers will divide participants into different groups. Some will receive daily messages that are specially designed for their personal chat style (these are called 'linguistically tailored messages'). Others will get general messages that aren't personalised, and some will receive no messages at all. Over two weeks, participants will get messages from Monday to Friday and then answer short questions about what they ate and what they thought of the messages. By comparing these groups, the study hopes to figure out if personalised messages are a strong tool for helping teenagers make healthier and more sustainable food choices.
The findings from this study could help health organisations and schools create more effective ways to talk to young people about healthy eating. If personalised messages work well, it might mean we can connect with teenagers better and help them make food choices that are good for them and the environment.
Key takeaways
- Study tests special messages to encourage plant-based eating in teens.
- Aims to see if messages matching your chat style are more effective.
- Runs for two weeks with daily messages and short surveys.
- Open to 11-16 year olds in UK/Ireland who can access plant-based foods.
- Excludes those already strict vegetarians/vegans.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for young people aged between 11 and 16 years old. To take part, you need to live in the United Kingdom or Ireland.
It's important that you have the option to choose plant-based foods during school hours. This could mean your school offers them, you buy them, or you bring them from home or a shop.
However, if you already follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet, this study isn't for you. This is because the study is trying to encourage people to try more plant-based foods, and you're already doing that!
- Are you between 11 and 16 years old?
- Do you live in the UK or Ireland?
- Can you easily choose plant-based foods for lunch at school?
- Are you not already a strict vegetarian or vegan?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, it will last for a total of two weeks. Before the main part starts, you'll play a short 'chat game' to help the researchers understand your unique way of talking. Then, you'll complete an initial survey to gather information about your usual food choices.
For two weeks, if you are in one of the message groups, you will receive daily messages promoting plant-based eating on weekdays (Monday to Friday) through a special app called Avicenna. All participants, including those who don't receive messages, will complete a short daily survey about what they ate for lunch. If you receive messages, you'll also answer questions about what you thought of them. At the end of each week, you'll complete a longer survey. All surveys will be completed on the app. There are no in-person visits required.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Norstat UK Ltd. (Online Research Panel)London, Ireland
- Norstat UK Ltd. (Online Research Panel)London, United Kingdom
Common questions
What are 'plant-based foods'?
Plant-based foods come mainly from plants, like fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and beans, rather than from animals.
What does 'linguistically tailored messages' mean?
It means the messages are designed to sound like the way you normally text or chat, making them more personal and relatable.
How long will I be in the study?
The study lasts for just two weeks, with a few surveys before and after.
Do I have to become fully vegetarian or vegan?
No, the study is just about encouraging you to try more plant-based options, not to change your whole diet permanently.
Will my parents know what I'm doing?
Your parents or guardians will need to give permission for you to take part in the study.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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