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Interesting Reads. Industry news that you may have missed.

Dark chocolate is now a health food. Here’s how that happened. – Vox

It is not uncommon for businesses to make boldface claims in favor of their products — however, Mars and other chocolate companies are controlling its research agendas to provide falsified evidence in support of their goods. Praying on a new niche of nutrition science that emerged amid the obesity epidemic, the candy company funded hundreds of research studies to build a solid aura of health around chocolate — and increase consumer demand. The studies’ results inevitably attract media attention and yielded an apparent shift in the public perception of the products, leaving many believing chocolate is a modern-day health food.

Source: Vox

 

Netflix Tests Promotional Videos but Users See ‘Commercials’  – The New York Times

Netflix conducts hundreds of trial programs of which many users are unaware; however, the streaming service’s newest test is receiving less than ecstatic reviews from customers. Netflix is testing the addition of personalized, promotional recommendations that are to be displayed between episodes of shows users are currently binge watching. Customers feedback seems to be negative. However, users display frustration that their used-to-be seamless transition from episode to episode is now being interrupted by commercials.

Source: The New York Times

 

A millennial who left her 6-figure job at Google to be a full-time social media influencer explains why she was willing to take the risk – Business Insider

Influencer marketing is experiencing an influx of advertising dollars, causing some to leave their steady careers for a more personal business opportunity. That was the case for Krystal Bick who left her six-figure job at Google three years ago to pursue her side hustle: being an influencer. To those considering following in Bick’s footsteps, she offers advice: build a business model, be patient, and set goals for yourself, just as you would with any business.

Source: Business Insider

 

What Your Car Knows About You – The Wall Street Journal

Modern cars have built-in connectivity, allowing auto companies access to unprecedented amounts of real-time data: your car’s location, whether or not the windshield wipers are on, your blinker status, even your tire pressure levels. Major car makers are hoping these connected-car services will generate a new source of revenue. Plan to monetize this information includes crafting targeted in-car advertisements and selling it to mapping firms looking to provide more accurate traffic information. The collection of such information, however, has many concerned with privacy.