International K-Pop sensation Psy is the only major pop star who is endorsing a healthy food brand, according to a study by New York University (NYU) researchers that evaluated recent celebrity endorsements.
The study stated that "there were no endorsements for fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, but [Psy] endorsed Wonderful Pistachio, which was the only food product with a healthy score."
Psy appeared in a 2013 Super Bowl commercial for Wonderful Pistachios.
Ironically, earlier this year, Wonderful recalled pistachios in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Peru due to a Salmonella scare.
The NYU study showed that pop stars mostly endorse high-calorie consumables, such as soft drinks and fast food.
The "Gangnam Style" singer appeared on a list of musicians the NYU researchers determined to be relevant by comparing music charts and advertising databases. Other artists include Justin Timberlake, Maroon 5, and One Direction.
The only other musician on the list who endorsed a natural food was Chris Brown, who was a spokesperson for a Got Milk? campaign.
The researchers evaluated each artist's food and drink endorsements and calculated their mean Nutrient Profile Index (NPI), with 1 being the lowest nutritional value and 100 the highest.
According to the study, an NPI below 64 "is considered the threshold for products that can be advertised to children in the United Kingdom."
Despite his pistachios, Psy's NPI average was 48, well below the UK's cutoff point.
The other food product that Psy endorsed is Nongshim Shin Ramyun Black Cup.
Researchers urged pop stars to use their status for good, asking them to "leverage their influence to promote more healthful messages."
The study also called on brands to "reduce the exposure of children and adolescents to marketing, particularly for unhealthy food and nonalcoholic beverages."
