Question

Determine whether the given source has the potential to create a bias in a statistical study.

Chocolate: An article in the Journal of Nutrition (Vol. 130, No. 8) noted that chocolate is rich in flavonoids. The article notes “regular consumption of foods rich in flavonoids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.” The study received funding from Mars, Inc., the candy company, and the Chocolate Manufacturers Association.

Short answer

Yes, the source mentioned in the study has the potential to create biasedness.

Step-by-step solution

Given information

As mentioned in the article, if flavonoid-rich food is consumed regularly, the probability of being affected by coronary heart disease might be reduced.

It is known that chocolates are rich in flavonoids, also that the study is funded by a candy company and an association of chocolate manufacturers.

Explain the bias at the source

Yes, there is a chance of bias in the study.

A chocolate business provided the funding for the investigation of a component in chocolates. Consequently, there is a strong probability that the study will be prejudiced.

Due to the source of finances, the outcomes are likely to be skewed in favor of the investor’s items, namely chocolates and candies.

Thus, there is a potential for creating a bias in the study