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Trigger Foods: The Influence of “Irrelevant” Alternatives in School Lunchrooms

Author

Listed:
  • Andrew S. Hanks

    (Cornell University)

  • David R. Just

    (Cornell University Author Name: Brian Wansink
    Cornell University)

Abstract

Rational choice theory commonly assumes that the presence of unselected choices cannot impact which among the remaining choices is selected-often referred to as independence of irrelevant alternatives. We show that such seemingly irrelevant alternatives influence choice in a school lunch setting. In these lunchrooms, we provide evidence that the presence of specific side dishes - trigger foods - can strongly increase the sales of unhealthy a la carte options, even when the trigger foods are not selected. This behavioral anomaly can be exploited to lead children to healthier choices. We also offer a method that can be used to identify such foods.

Suggested Citation

  • Andrew S. Hanks & David R. Just, 2012. "Trigger Foods: The Influence of “Irrelevant” Alternatives in School Lunchrooms," Working Papers 2012-08, Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs.
  • Handle: RePEc:dys:benwps:2012-08
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