Comparison of government recommendations for healthy eating habits in visual representations of food-based dietary guidelines in Latin America

Author(s)

da Silva Oliveira, Mayara Sanay ; Arceno, Mark Anthony ; Sato, Priscila de Morais ; Scagliusi, Fernanda Baeza

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Cadernos de Saúde Pública; v. 35, n. 12, p. 22-pg., 2019-01-01.

Abstract

Visual representations of food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) express diverse dietary and sociocultural norms, especially as they relate to healthy eating habits. This article investigates government recommendations for healthy eating habits expressed in the visual representation of Latin American FBDGs. Drawing on 15 images published between 1991 and 2017 we conducted an anthropological visual analysis guided by the methodology proposed by James Collier and Malcolm Collier: unstructured analyses, open viewing analyses, structured analyses and microanalyses. Here, we explore government recommendations based on visual representation shapes, food classification systems, lifestyle recommendations and embedded sociocultural elements. Our main findings relate to how dietary and sociocultural norms are used to promote eating practices considered healthy. Dietary norms focus on variety, proportionality, and moderation, as expressed in terms of food classification and food standards considered healthy. Sociocultural norms are referenced by the use of cultural symbols as strategies to promote traditional foods, cooking practices, commensality, water consumption and physical activity. Ultimately, we argue that FBDG visual representations contain embedded messages that counsel individuals to plan, buy, prepare and consume food with family; to consume foods considered healthy; to pay full attention to their meals, without distractions, such as television and cell phones; and to celebrate traditional, local and/or native foods and culinary preparations. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/17424-9 - Health and Well-Being in Obesity: evaluation of an interdisciplinary intervention based on the "Health at every size" approach for obese women.
• Grantee: Fernanda Baeza Scagliusi
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• FAPESP's process: 17/05651-0 - Ultra processed food consumption and feeding practices of mothers in Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre: a mixed-methods approach
• Grantee: Priscila de Morais Sato
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral