Coverage of sugar-sweetened beverages in the British media: an analysis of public health advocacy versus pro-industry messaging

Abstract

BackgroundSugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are an increasing contributor to rising rates of diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. The media has an important role in framing perceptions of these products and therefore has substantial potential to influence public health policy. We assessed the extent of media-based public health advocacy versus pro-industry messaging about SSBs. MethodsWe conducted a systematic analysis to identify and examine all articles about SSBs published in all mainstream British print newspapers and their online news websites from Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2014. English language articles were sourced via the Nexis database with the following search terms: Sugar* W/5 beverage* (Sugar* followed by beverage maximum of five words later); Sugar* W/p soft drink* (Sugar* within the same paragraph soft drink*); Fizz* Drink*; Sugar* drink*. We conducted a brief literature search to develop appropriate search terms and categorisations for grouping and analysing articles. Articles were coded according to the publishing newspaper, article type, topic, prominence, and slant (pro-SSB or anti-SSB). A contextual analysis was undertaken to examine key messages in the articles. FindingsWe identified 374 articles published during 2014. 303 articles (81%) suggested that SSBs are unhealthy. Messaging from experts, campaign groups, and health organisations was fairly consistent about the detrimental effects of these beverages on health (ie, advocating a 30% reduction in sugar intake). 135 articles (36%) did not suggest any solutions to potentially combat the problems associated with SSBs, 116 (31%) advocated individual responsibility, 90 (24%) policy changes, and 34 (9%) other approaches. 57 articles were about the food industry and they produced consistent messages emphasising consumer choice and individual responsibility for making choices about consumption of SSBs, and promoting and advertising their products. The food industry thus managed to avoid association with the negative press that their products were receiving. InterpretationSSBs were frequently published in mainstream British print newspapers and their online news websites during 2014. Public health media advocacy was prominent throughout, with a growing consensus that SSBs are bad for health. However, the challenge for public health will be to mobilise supportive public opinion to help implement effective regulatory policies. FundingNone.