This study explores consumer awareness regarding health issues caused by the consumption of cold drinks in Ahmedabad city. The research examines associations between age, reasons for cold drink consumption (e.g., taste, habit, socializing), and the occurrence of health problems such as diabetes, digestive issues, and dental problems. It also investigates how consumers gather information about the health impacts of cold drinks, with a focus on sources such as social media, family/friends, schools, and health professionals. The findings reveal weak associations between age and reasons for consumption, suggesting that cold drink preferences are not strongly age-dependent. However, digestive issues are more significantly associated with cold drink consumption compared to other health risks like diabetes and dental problems.The study also highlights the importance of labeling and natural ingredients in influencing consumer choices, as well as the role of government campaigns in raising health awareness. Practical implications include the need for targeted public health campaigns, clearer product labeling, and promoting healthier beverage alternatives. The findings suggest that age-specific interventions, especially leveraging social media for younger consumers, can be effective in raising awareness and promoting healthier behaviors. Future research should explore psychological and behavioral drivers, evaluate the effectiveness of public health interventions, and investigate long-term health impacts to provide deeper insights into cold drink consumption patterns and their health consequences
Read full abstract