Two New Public Service Announcements Highlight Vegetarian Diets

Two new PCRM public service announcements (PSAs) are delivering important messages about healthy diets to two specific groups: Hispanic-Americans and parents.

First, award-winning investigative journalist Geraldo Rivera narrates “El Poder de la Alimentación” ("The Power of Nutrition"), PCRM’s first Spanish-language PSA. Heart disease and cancer are the top killers of Hispanic-Americans. The new PSA, which has been distributed to radio and TV stations across the country, relays the good news that these illnesses can be largely prevented or managed through a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber vegetarian foods.

The TV spot features real-life doctors in a hospital setting. Beginning with a look at impressive state-of-the-art technology, “El Poder de la Alimentación” segues to a hospital cafeteria, where the physicians are enjoying a healthful lunch, as Rivera announces: “And today, doctors are talking about what might be the most important weapon of all: the food we eat.”

This PSA offers a toll-free number (staffed by Spanish-speaking representatives) through which viewers or listeners can order a free Vegetarian Starter Kit, which includes prevention information, nutrition advice, and healthful, easy-to-prepare recipes. For more information on our Spanish-language booklet, please visit www.HazteVegetariano.org.

Meanwhile, The Cancer Project has just released “Protective Gear,” a humorous spot that features children weighed down with awkward padding and other safety gear. The message to parents: A lot goes into protecting children from harm, but we should not overlook one of the best protections of all—a healthy vegetarian diet.

The spot promotes a toll-free number and a Web site through which parents can order Nutrition for Your Kids, a free booklet packed with kid-friendly, healthy recipes and nutrition information. “Protective Gear” was immediately picked up by the country’s largest CBS affiliate—New York City—and is already airing nationwide.