Constructing healthy food names: On the sound symbolism of healthy food

• We studied the role of sound symbolism on constructing healthy food names. Phonemic sounds with higher (vs. lower) frequencies are perceived to be healthier. Higher frequency change health perception savoury food. The is not observed in sweet interest has grown rapidly amongst both consumers and manufacturers recent years. However, which foods should considered sometimes ambiguous. Identifying those factors that influence healthfulness manufacturers. Previous research shown product-intrinsic (e.g., nutrition) product-extrinsic colour packaging) can shape consumers’ it less clear how brand names, one important factors, Relying theory symbolism, we investigated whether present fictitious names would expected Across four studies, demonstrate phonemic /f, s, i, e/ vs. /b, d, g, o, u/) Studies 1 2 phenomenon using general categories “healthy” “unhealthy” foods, whereas 3 4 conceptually replicate results (or descriptions) products “vegetable beef sandwich”) a different study design (within-participants for Study between-participants 4). also explore boundary conditions this symbolic effect, demonstrating products, but ones (Studies These findings provide actionable insights wanting develop reveal its link consumers' perceptions