Children are targeted by big food pushing packaged foods high in sugar
Children Are Targeted By Big Food Pushing Packaged Foods High in Sugar

A recent study focuses on the fact that packaged foods marketed to kids are significantly higher in sugar and lower in other nutrients than other products. This is alarming because it shows how the food industry is exploiting children’s vulnerability and preferences for sweet and salty foods, and potentially contributing to their addiction to these foods.

The study, Child-appealing packaged food and beverage products in Canada–Prevalence, power, and nutritional quality, published in the journal Nutrients, analyzed over 3,000 packaged foods sold in Canada and found that those marketed to children had 36% more sugar, 10% more sodium, 8% less protein, and 9% less fiber than those marketed to adults or not marketed by age group. The researchers also found that foods marketed to children were more likely to have cartoon characters, bright colors, and claims like “fun” or “made for kids” on their packaging.

These findings are concerning because they suggest that children are being exposed to unhealthy foods that can trigger their reward system and make them crave more of these foods. This can lead to overeating, obesity, diabetes, and other health problems later in life. It can also make it harder for them to develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.

So what can we do as parents, caregivers, educators, and advocates to protect our children from these harmful foods?

Here are some suggestions:

        • Educate ourselves and our children about the dangers of food addiction and how to recognize the signs and symptoms.
        • Avoid buying packaged foods that are marketed to children and opt for fresh, whole foods instead.
        • Read the nutrition labels and ingredient lists of packaged foods and look for added sugars, sodium, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
        • Limit the exposure of children to food advertisements on TV, social media, and other platforms.
        • Support policies and initiatives that regulate the marketing of unhealthy foods to children and promote healthy eating environments in schools and communities.

By taking these steps, we can help our children develop a healthy and balanced diet that nourishes their bodies and minds, rather than leads to a progressive food addiction. We can also prevent them from becoming addicted to foods that harm their future well being.

Download the recent article by Christopher Curly for Medical News Today, May 3, 2023

Free Webinar: Discover the Certified Food Addiction Professional Program – May 24

Dear INFACT Community,

I’m excited to invite you to a free online introduction to the INFACT School’s Certified Food Addiction Professional (CFAP) Training Program on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time.

In this 1-hour session, you'll gain a clear overview of our internationally recognized certification and learn how you can:

  • Support individuals in recovery from food addiction
  • Apply a substance use disorder model to your counseling practice
  • Become part of a growing network of professionals working to address this urgent public health issue

Whether you're a healthcare provider, counselor, or simply passionate about helping others, this is a great opportunity to learn how you can make a difference.

We’d love to see you there!

Sign up today!

We’re thrilled to share that Euro Health Leaders Magazine has published a powerful cover story featuring our very own Esther Helga Gudmundsdottir, Founder and Director of the INFACT School and MFM Center in Iceland.

In this deeply personal and insightful piece, Esther opens up about her decades-long battle with food addiction—and how that journey led her to develop one of the world’s first outpatient food addiction treatment centers and the only international certification school for food addiction professionals.

Her story is a testament to the strength of recovery, the need for proper education, and the importance of recognizing food addiction as a serious and treatable condition.

📖 Read the full article and discover how one woman’s vision is shaping the global conversation on food addiction treatment.

Read Now!

We are excited to announce new training options for 2025—designed to offer even more flexibility, accessibility, and global reach for aspiring professionals in the field of food addiction recovery.

📅 Next Certification Cohort Begins:

  • September 19, 2025

🎓 What to Expect from the Program:

  • 170 hours of dynamic and interactive virtual learning
  • Access to our exclusive student platform filled with tools, community support, and essential resources
  • A complete package of comprehensive lectures, a detailed teaching manual, and downloadable course materials
  • Earn the prestigious Certified Food Addiction Professional (CFAP) designation, recognized by the European Certification Board

Whether you're a clinician, counselor, or someone passionate about helping others recover from food addiction, this program is your next step toward making a meaningful impact.

💥 Let’s change lives—starting with yours.

Sign up today!

Hiring: SHiFT Recovery is looking for a virtual Accountability Coach / House Manager

SHiFT Recovery is hiring a hybrid contractor to support clients in food addiction recovery. The role includes virtual 1:1 coaching, leading groups, and a few in-person Florida-based intensives per year. Candidates with food addiction recovery experience—either professional or lived—are strongly encouraged to apply. This is a part-time, flexible position with strong pay and deep purpose.

  • Job Opportunity: Accountability Coach / House Manager – SHiFT Recovery
  • Contract Position | Remote + Travel (Florida-based Intensives)
  • SHiFT Recovery, a leading program in food addiction treatment, is hiring a grounded, organized, and compassionate Accountability Coach / House Manager. This hybrid contractor role includes virtual coaching and client support, as well as in-person leadership at our Florida-based residential intensives.
 
About the Role
This role has two main areas of responsibility:
1. Virtual Coaching & Client Support (majority of the role):
  • Facilitate weekly 1:1 coaching sessions via Zoom or phone call
  • Lead or co-lead group programs and accountability calls
  • Hold consultations with prospective clients to share information about SHiFT, offer education about food addiction, and support them in identifying next steps in recovery (whether with SHiFT or another path)
  • Help current clients stay connected to their food recovery, structure, and emotional sobriety commitments
  • Collaborate with the SHiFT team to support continuity of care
2. In-Person House Manager Duties (3–4 intensives/year, 10–14 days each):
  • Travel to Florida to support our live-in treatment intensives
  • Welcome and orient participants on arrival
  • Lead or co-lead evening groups and daily check-ins
  • Manage room and chore assignments, coordinate with the cook, and ensure a structured, supportive environment
  • Assist with house setup before the event and clean-up/inventory afterward
  • Be present for morning and evening support and provide emergency overnight coverage
 
 Who We’re Looking For
  • Experience with food addiction recovery—either professional or lived (If in recovery, we ask for 3+ years of solid abstinence with a strong program foundation)
  • Emotionally mature, self-directed, and highly organized
  • Strong boundaries and comfort in a professional support role (especially important for SHiFT alumni applicants)
  • Able to work independently from home and switch into hands-on, physical leadership during intensives
  • Willing and able to travel several times per year
 
Compensation
  • $35–$55 per hour
  • $1,500–$1,800 per in-person intensive
    (includes travel, meals, and accommodation)
 
Note for SHiFT Alumni: If you’re a SHiFT alumni, we welcome your application. Please note that this role involves stepping into a professional identity—you would no longer participate in SHiFT support programming as a peer or client. Supervision and guidance are provided to help with this transition.
 

To Apply: Email Amanda at amanda@foodaddiction.com with an introduction, your relevant experience, and a  resume. Let us know why this work matters to you. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Our Sponsors

SHiFT: Recovery by Acorn

For over three decades, SHiFT: Recovery by Acorn has been a beacon for individuals struggling with food addiction, guiding countless people toward the freedom of a life without food dependency. As a trailblazer in the field of food addiction treatment, SHiFT commits to uplifting clients from the deep grips of food addiction through innovative and comprehensive treatment programs. Whether it's the fixation on food, weight concerns, or the physical and mental burdens of addiction, SHiFT understands these challenges and offers effective solutions. Their 12-week treatment program, supplemented by extensive alumni support, fosters a profound transformation in participants' relationship with food and their bodies. If you are ready to begin a new chapter in your life, free from food dependency, contact SHiFT to schedule a free 30-minute consultation. Visit their website at foodaddiction.com or call them at 941-378-2122.

Milestones in Recovery

Milestones in Recovery stands as a pivotal resource for individuals battling eating disorders and food addiction, offering both residential and outpatient treatment options. Nestled in the scenic region of southeast Florida, Milestones boasts a modern facility where highly skilled professionals deliver top-tier treatment and support. Patients receive tailored recovery plans that include guided nutritional counseling and strategies to overcome compulsive eating behaviors. With services spanning various eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia, and binge-eating disorder, Milestones ensures comprehensive care. Most health insurance plans are accepted, making it accessible for many seeking help. Take the first step toward a fulfilling and liberated life; contact Milestones to learn more about their programs and how they can assist in your recovery journey. Visit their website at milestonesprogram.org or call 1-800-347-2364 today.

Learn more about SHiFT!
Learn more about Milestones!
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