Evaluating the Quality of Smartphone Apps for Overeating, Stress, and Craving-Related Eating Using the Mobile Application Rating Scale

Abstract

Food overconsumption is a major public health issue worldwide where obesity-related conditions are a leading cause of preventable death. The purpose of this study is to rate the quality of mobile apps aimed at improving eating behavior by targeting food and stress-related eating using the Mobile Application Rating Scale. There are few published studies evaluating the effectiveness of smartphone apps targeting the addiction model to improve eating behavior. Although pilot studies have indicated that this approach is promising, no randomized controlled trials have been published. This study included 19 apps, and app quality scores ranged from 2.58 to 4.87, with a mean score of 3.52 out of 5. The large discrepancy in quality is a concern given that these apps are aimed at addressing eating-related behaviors and influence health outcomes. As a result, a high burden is put on consumers to vigilantly screen apps to determine if information provided is based on scientific evidence.