Commercial food advertising on the campus of Ghana’s largest University

Abstract

Background

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of death globally. NCD mortality attributable to unhealthy food environments (FEs) is significant. Heavy marketing of unhealthy foods is an important contributor to unhealthy FEs.

Aims

We examined the extent of commercial food advertising, messaging, and signage on the campus of Ghana’s oldest and largest university.

Methods

We cross-sectionally collected data on all sighted advertisements. Advertisements/signage were categorised as food or non-food adverts, and as healthy or unhealthy (if they were food).

Results

Of 503 advertisements recorded, 238 (47.3%) were food ads. Advertised food products were categorised as healthy (38.7%), unhealthy (57.6%), or other/miscellaneous (3.8%).  The most advertised food product was sugar-sweetened drinks (37.0%).   Different promotional techniques deployed included the use of claim pronouncement, promotional characters, emotional appeal, premium offer, and price promotion.

Conclusions

The preponderance of unhealthy food advertising on the campus of Ghana’s largest university has public health implications. Advertising may influence purchasing behaviour and consumption of unhealthy foods. Publicity and advocacy that motivate development of local policies to regulate various food promotion activities within this, and other Ghanaian food environments are urgently needed.