The Impact of Technological Advancement, Digitalization and Economic Transformation on Food Advertisement and Children’s Food Habits in Malakand Division

Abstract

In this postmodern world, technological innovations and digitalization are recognized as fundamental forces for economic growth and development across the globe. Technological innovation is recognized as a prerequisite for economic growth, production of variety of goods and services, and reduction of costs of different goods and services available in the market. It is evident that technologically advanced countries of the world are economically stable and high competitor in the global economic market with highest per capita income, however; in many parts, the poor countries highly pay for this development. This paper analyzes the process of technological innovations, digitalization and economic transformation and attempts to know food advertisement impacts children’s dietary habits and health, huge marketing and advertising campaign are lunched to attract children as consumers, and the consequences of food advertising on the health and wellbeing of future generation. This study critically investigates digitalization, economic change and the impact of food advertisement and marketing on children’s food habits and health. Primary data was collected from a sample of 45 conveniently selected participants from District Dir Lower of Malakand Division. Further, data was collected from different categories of respondents including parents, children and general community, while 15 respondents were selected from each category. The study concludes that economic growth often narrowly focuses on increasing the production of goods and services and does not always reflect the quality of life. In constant pursuit to accumulate profit, excessive advertising is made that usually focuses on children and results in different behavioral and health related issues in children with dire consequences on the overall living standard and well-being.