FOOD shoppers should be confronted by graphic images of tooth decay and bowel cancer on sweets and red meat to encourage them to make healthier choices, it has been suggested.

Emma Kenny, a behavioural psychologist who has commentated on television shows such as Celebrity Big Brother, also said it was “dangerous and incorrect” to send a message to people that being overweight can be beautiful or healthy.

She said: “If, when you went to buy red meat, you were confronted with pictures of bowel cancer, or were confronted with pictures of tooth decay when you picked up those sweets for your kids, the chances are that you would think twice about buying them.”

Ms Kenny has been consulting with Food Standards Scotland as part of the agency’s new obesity campaign against upsizing, which warns consumers against “go large” options.

Ms Kenny said: “The truth is that upsizing is based on a great deal of research regarding consumer behaviour. The basis involves making the customer feel they are being advised of a better offer, and promotes a fear of missing out, which is turn leads to more impulsive behaviour.

“This results in a meal choice that is bigger and more calorific than they require.”