What is significant about the "Supersize" phenomenon mentioned in Schlosser's critique?

What is significant about the "Supersize" phenomenon mentioned in Schlosser's critique?

• A. It demonstrates a shift to healthier meal options
• B. It underscores marketing strategies promoting larger portion sizes
• C. It indicates a decline in fast-food sales
• D. It relates to the introduction of vegan options

Answer: (B)

The "Supersize" phenomenon is significant because it illustrates how marketing strategies in the fast-food industry have increasingly promoted larger portion sizes as desirable. This trend not only reflects a cultural shift towards expecting more food for less money but also highlights the role of advertising in influencing consumer behavior. By marketing larger sizes, fast-food chains effectively increased their sales volume and profitability. This strategy caters to the appeal of getting a better value, which often leads customers to choose larger portions than they actually need. This emphasis on size over nutrition also supports a broader critique of how the fast-food industry has contributed to unhealthy eating habits and obesity, as larger serving sizes generally contain more calories and fats. While the other options touch on related issues, they do not address the pivotal role that marketing plays in promoting larger sizes, which is the primary focus of Schlosser's critique.

The "Supersize" phenomenon is significant because it illustrates how marketing strategies in the fast-food industry have increasingly promoted larger portion sizes as desirable. This trend not only reflects a cultural shift towards expecting more food for less money but also highlights the role of advertising in influencing consumer behavior. By marketing larger sizes, fast-food chains effectively increased their sales volume and profitability. This strategy caters to the appeal of getting a better value, which often leads customers to choose larger portions than they actually need. This emphasis on size over nutrition also supports a broader critique of how the fast-food industry has contributed to unhealthy eating habits and obesity, as larger serving sizes generally contain more calories and fats. While the other options touch on related issues, they do not address the pivotal role that marketing plays in promoting larger sizes, which is the primary focus of Schlosser's critique.