Potential nutrition messages in magazines read by college students

Advertisements in magazines read by 12% or more of college students enrolled in an introductory nutrition class were surveyed for hidden food and nutrition messages. Meanings were identified by categories of activities, products, and people. Less than 10% of the ads featuring people fell into food categories. Of these, more were for alcohol and supplements; fewer were for basic or extra-calorie foods. Hidden messages for females could imply beauty through fashion products, beauty aids, and supplements but with a nutrition slimming plan. Males may be receiving a subtle message that food choices do not matter, and that alcohol and supplements are desirable in everyday life.