Public Health: Private Lies

n this episode of Public Health, Private Lies, Us, (the co-hosts) Ricardo Calderon and Alondra Arroyo investigate how everyday food labels use persuasive language to mislead consumers about health and nutrition. With guest contributions from Patrick, Maria, and Renata, the episode unpacks common buzzwords like “all-natural,” “low-fat,” and “high-protein,” exposing how these terms often mask high sugar content, poor nutritional value, and misleading claims. Through a mix of casual spontaneous conversation, personal anecdotes, and research-based insights, the we want to introduce concepts like health-washing and the health halo effect, showing how marketing can distort public perception. Drawing from academic sources, we discuss the lack of regulatory oversight and the public's difficulty understanding food labels, emphasizing the need for greater transparency and media literacy. The episode calls on listeners—especially young consumers—to think critically, ask the right questions, and not fall for the polished front of a product box.