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A cognitive dissonance-based intervention to reduce ultra-processed food intake: Protocol for a pilot randomized
Charlotte Hagerman1, Danny Choo-Kang1, Erica LaFata1
1Oregon Research Institute, 3800 Sports Way, Springfield, OR 97477, USA; Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Drexel University, 3201 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Contemporary Clinical Trials
|April 24, 2026
Summary
This study investigates strategies to reduce ultra-processed food (UPF) intake. Cognitive dissonance techniques show promise in motivating individuals to decrease consumption of these harmful foods.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Behavioral Psychology
Background:
- Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are prevalent in the US despite known health risks.
- The UPF industry actively promotes hyperpalatable products and influences policy to avoid regulation.
- High motivation is crucial for individuals to reduce UPF consumption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of standard dietary change strategies and dissonance-based strategies in reducing UPF intake.
- To explore the synergistic effects of combined interventions.
- To assess the potential of dissonance strategies in mitigating disparities for individuals facing socio-structural barriers to healthy eating.
Main Methods:
- A 2x2 factorial design study involving 60 adults with overweight/obesity.
- Random assignment to standard dietary change (ON/OFF) and dissonance-based strategies (ON/OFF).
- All participants receive an educational workshop; intervention groups attend weekly sessions for 8 weeks.
Main Results:
- Expected meaningful reductions in UPF intake with either strategy.
- Anticipated improvements in dietary quality and weight reduction.
- Hypothesized synergistic effects when strategies are combined.
Conclusions:
- Both standard and dissonance-based strategies are expected to reduce UPF intake, improve diet, and aid weight loss.
- Dissonance strategies may help equalize outcomes for individuals with socio-structural barriers.
- Successful outcomes may lead to larger trials with longer follow-up periods.
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