Beyond the Label Campaign: An Integrated Marketing and Communications Campaign to Educate and Empower Low-Income Communities in the Southern United States

Authors

Erica Napuli, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Dr. Dane Kiambi

Second Advisor

Dr. Adam Wagler

Date of this Version

Spring 5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

Napuli, E. 2025. Beyond the Label Campaign: An Integrated Marketing and Communications Campaign to Educate and Empower Low-Income Communities in the Southern United States. Undergraduate Honors Thesis. University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

Copyright Erica Napuli 2025

Abstract

The Beyond the Label campaign is an Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) initiative designed to educate and empower low-income consumers about food additives, labeling regulations and the impact of making educated food choices on long-term health. This campaign is based on research on current U.S. food labeling and regulations, health risks associated with current ingredients and additives approved through regulations, the disproportionate impact of food policy on low-income communities with a focus on the Southern U.S., as well as further exploration of strategies for multi-channel marketing for targeted audiences. This project proposes a hypothetical partnership with the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Beyond the Label strategically targets low-income communities in economically diverse areas of the Southern U.S., specifically Black and Hispanic populations, who are disproportionately affected by food insecurity and misleading food marketing practices, implemented by current food policy and regulations. By utilizing a multi-channel approach, including in-person events, digital content and interactive resources, the campaign seeks to increase awareness, understanding and accessibility to food label transparency.

Through digital platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, this campaign strives to deliver engaging and digestible content, including educational short-form videos, infographics and other interactive tools that simplify food labeling and the comprehension of posed health risks. Additionally, in-person opportunities will provide direct engagement, allowing consumers to participate in guided label-reading activities, receive budget-friendly grocery tips and access EWG’s resources for real-time product evaluations. The campaign’s measurable objectives include increasing EWG’s social media engagement, event attendance, growing petition signatures and expanding resource access through SMS and email subscriptions.