Changing how mothers view kids' food choices

Dismantling the U.S. Social Norm of the "Kids' Food" Archetype That Includes Ultra-processed Foods Such as Chicken Nuggets and Fries in the Newark, NJ Community

Not applicable Interventional Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey · NCT06266533

This study is trying to see if teaching mothers about ultra-processed foods in creative ways can change how they view their kids' food choices.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment38 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexFemale
SponsorRutgers, The State University of New Jersey Academic / other
Locations1 site (Newark, New Jersey)
Trial IDNCT06266533 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to shift social norms regarding the marketing and consumption of ultra-processed foods among preschool-age children. It involves a longitudinal ethnographic study where mothers will be randomly assigned to receive either arts-based or traditional education about ultra-processed foods. The study will assess mothers' perceptions of food environments and their knowledge of nutrition before and after the educational interventions. Focus group discussions will further explore these perceptions using photographs taken by the mothers.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are English-speaking African American or Black mothers who are legal guardians of preschool-age children enrolled in Head Start programs.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit from this study include non-English speaking individuals and fathers.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this initiative could empower mothers to make healthier food choices for their children, ultimately improving children's nutrition.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in changing food perceptions and behaviors through educational interventions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* English-speaking
* African American or Black or bi-racial or multi-racial African American and Black mothers
* \>18 years
* Female
* Legal guardian of a preschool-age child (3-5 years) participating in the Leaguers, Inc.

Head Start programming.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Spanish-speaking
* Other racial and ethnic groups
* Fathers

Where this trial is running

Newark, New Jersey

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Food SelectionEnvironmental Exposure
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.