Processed food makers capitalize on ‘anti-diet’ trend, finds report

The “anti-diet” trend has grown in popularity online, encouraging people to stop dieting and start listening to their “mental hunger.” Processed food companies like General Mills have co-opted it to promote their sugary products, finds a joint investigation by the Washington Post and The Examination.

Experts warn that following such online trends can cause obese patients to regain their weight, which can often lead to health complications.

Analysis of more than 6,000 social media posts by 68 registered dietitians with at least 10,000 followers showed that roughly 40% of these influencers, with a combined reach of over 9 million followers, repeatedly used anti-diet language, including #NoBadFoods, #FoodFreedom and #DitchTheDiet.

And most of the diet influencers were paid to promote products from food, beverage, and supplement companies.

Last fall’s Food & Nutrition Conference Expo in Denver saw several registered dietitians.

The “anti-diet” movement began as an effort to combat anorexia and weight stigma and promote body positivity while staying healthy.

Critics, including Senator Richard Blumenthal, have raised concerns about food companies exploiting vulnerable populations and promoting unhealthy eating habits.

They also argue that the anti-diet movement shifts the blame away from the food industry’s role in creating unhealthy products.