Now, new University of Otago research has called for stronger scrutiny of marketing practices linked to harmful products. Study leaders University of Otago Business School marketing researchers Associate Prof Leah Watkins and Prof Rob Aitken said marketing practices normalised the consumption of products that are known to be harmful to public health and social wellbeing. ‘‘Clearly, the marketing of products like tobacco, alcohol and ultra-processed foods contributes to harm. ‘‘This requires a re-evaluation of both the tactics and strategies employed by marketing, as well as the systemic role that marketing plays in affecting public health and social wellbeing. The research findings come amid growing concern about public health crises, rising inequality and accelerating climate change.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 08, 2026 17:35 UTC