Calgary Researchers Unmask Cartoon Influence on Kids' Unhealthy Eating

Calgary Study Reveals Unhealthy Truth

A new study led by University of Calgary communications professor Dr. Charlene Elliott reveals a concerning truth: cartoon characters prominently featured on food packaging are overwhelmingly promoting unhealthy snacks to children. Transmitted by PR Newswire on November 25, 2025, the research, funded by Heart & Stroke, highlights the pervasive influence of these child-friendly appeals.

A Pervasive Problem on Store Shelves

Auditing 16 stores, the study identified 2,737 child-targeted products with cartoon appeals. Alarmingly, only 1% of these were fresh vegetables or fruit. Dr. Elliott's assessment using Health Canada's 2023 proposed nutrition criteria found over 92% of cartoon-featured products exceeded nutrient thresholds for advertising to children. This widespread marketing impacts kids' preferences and 'pester power'.

Local Initiatives Pushing Back

These findings resonate deeply within Alberta, where childhood obesity affects a significant 19.1% of children aged 12-19. Calgary and provincial efforts are already in motion. The Alberta Nutrition Guidelines for Children and Youth (ANGCY) set standards for healthy food in schools and childcare. A recent Canada-Alberta National School Food Program Agreement allocates over $42 million federal funding and $20 million provincial annually for nutritious school meals, adhering to ANGCY. Alberta Health Services and the Calgary Board of Education also champion programs like "Healthy Kids, Healthy Bodies" and align school food offerings with ANGCY.

Advocacy for Healthier Futures

Heart & Stroke, established in 1952, emphasizes the urgency. Manuel Arango, VP of Policy and Advocacy, and CEO Doug Roth urge Health Canada to advance proposed restrictions on marketing unhealthy foods to children, stressing the need to protect kids from manipulative tactics that shape long-term eating habits and contribute to future healthcare burdens.