Validation of a restaurant app for healthy eating
Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Food Policies to Promote Healthier Choices at Restaurants
NA · University of Pennsylvania · NCT06868056
This study is testing a new app that helps low-income adults make healthier choices when ordering fast food to see how it works alongside healthy food policies like taxes and warning labels.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT06868056 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to develop and validate an online fast food restaurant ordering application that simulates a real fast-food experience. It will also conduct a feasibility study to prepare for a larger trial that tests the impact of healthy food policies, such as taxes on ultra-processed foods and warning labels, on consumer purchasing behavior. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a control group or a group exposed to healthy food policies over a three-week period. The study will recruit 60 low-income adults from the Philadelphia area who regularly consume fast food.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are low-income adults aged 18 and older who live in the Philadelphia area and consume fast food at least once a month.
Not a fit: Patients who do not meet the income criteria or do not regularly consume fast food may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved dietary choices among low-income individuals, potentially reducing the incidence of chronic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have explored the impact of food policies on dietary choices, this specific approach using an online ordering application is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years old. Can adhere to the study schedule (e.g., receive a lunch on a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday). Household income approximately \<200% of the federal poverty level (the same eligibility criterion as SNAP). Reports consuming food from McDonald's or a similar fast-food chain at least once a month Has regular internet access. Has a smart phone that can take pictures. Can travel to a McDonald's location to buy a meal with the study debit card Exclusion Criteria: Does not meet all of the inclusion criteria Unable to provide consent non-English speaker Cognitive impairment; per PIs discretion Participant is under 18 years old Doesn't in the greater Philadelphia area.
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Christina Roberto, PhD — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Eva Fabian, MPH
- Email: eva.fabian@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: 760-791-2633
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Chronic Disease, chronic disease, sugar-sweetened beverages, warning labels, beverage tax