Menu to Meal (M2M): Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Digital Nutritional Labeling Intervention in Hispanic Restaurant Settings
Texas A&M University
Summary
This study evaluates the impact of culturally tailored menu labeling interventions on psychosocial factors and ordering behavior among customers in two independently owned Hispanic restaurants in East-Central Texas. Participants will be exposed to one of three sequential menu conditions at each restaurant: (1) a standard menu without nutrition information, (2) a paper menu with bilingual nutrition labels, or (3) a digital menu app enhanced with Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) providing interactive nutrition guidance. The study will assess whether menu formats influence nutrition literacy, decision-making confidence, self-efficacy, attitudes, behavioral intentions, and actual ordering behavior. Data will be collected through surveys, purchase receipts, and app interaction logs.
Description
Detailed Description: This study aims to design and evaluate a culturally tailored, bilingual menu labeling intervention incorporating AR and AI features in small, independently owned Hispanic restaurants. The intervention seeks to promote informed food ordering by targeting psychosocial constructs known to influence food choice. Three sequential conditions will be implemented: (1) baseline with standard menus and no nutrition labels, (2) paper menus with visible bilingual nutrition labels, and (3) a digital AR/AI-enhanced menu. Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Cognitive T…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18 years or older * Patrons dining at participating Hispanic restaurants during designated study hours * Able to read and speak English or Spanish * Willing and able to provide informed consent * Pregnant women are eligible to participate, as the study procedures pose minimal risk Exclusion Criteria: * Minors under 18 years of age * Individuals with visual or cognitive impairments that prevent interaction with the menu formats or AR/AI technology * Individuals who have participated in a prior phase of the study * Restaurant staff involved in study implement…
Interventions
- BehavioralPaper menu
Paper menu with bilingual nutrition labels
- BehavioralDigital menu condition
AR/AI-enhanced digital menu giving interactive nutrition guidance
Location
- Local Restaurant SiteBryan, Texas