UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health

A county-wide campaign targeting sugary drinks was associated with overall decreases in youth consumption, according to a new study from researchers at the UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity. However, the neighborhood food environment was found to be especially important for Black and Hispanic youth. Black and Hispanic students who live near large numbers of fast-food restaurants and convenience stores did not report significant decreases in calories from sugary drinks between 2012 and 2017, while those who live in healthier food environments did.