What are kids watching online? How digital food marketing shapes children’s and adolescents’ diets

What do children and teens see when they scroll through Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube? Beyond viral videos, livestreams, and influencer content, food and beverage marketing has become increasingly common on social media. Unlike traditional print or television advertisements, digital marketing is highly personalized, allowing brands to create interactive experiences that are especially appealing to young audiences. Much of this marketing is subtle, blending seamlessly into other content so that people are often targeted without being aware. As screentime surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, engagement with digital marketing increased. This trend has persisted, raising important concerns about the impact of these marketing strategies on children and adolescents.