This article explores the popularity of food programs and whether or not this genre could
be used as a health communication tool to disseminate healthy eating advice. Surprisingly little
academic research has been conducted on the public’s attraction to food programming, what it
says about the role of food in society, and whether or not its viewing audience would be
interested in consuming healthy food recommendations. The study investigates these topics
through a combination of social science theories; a review of popular media; and, a survey of
food show viewers. The results suggest that the more one watches food programs and develops
an affinity for favorite shows and chefs, the more open that individual is to receiving healthy
eating recommendations from those shows and chefs. This has important implications for
promoting wellness and nutrition through popular media content. |