Examining Front-of-Package Product Names and Ingredient Lists of Infant and Toddler Food Containing Vegetables

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the alignment between vegetables and fruits listed in the ingredients of commercially produced infant and toddler food (ITF) and inclusion in front-of-package product names. DesignA database of commercial ITF containing vegetables (n = 548) was created. Inclusion of each vegetable or fruit in the product name (yes/no), form (ie, whole/puree, juice/juice concentrate, etc), and ingredient list position (ie, first, second) were recorded. Vegetables were classified per US Department of Agriculture categories; fruits were classified into 2 categories. AnalysisChi-square tests of association tested associations between product name inclusion and (1) vegetable and fruit category, (2) form, and (3) form by category. ResultsAssociations were observed between vegetable and fruit categories and inclusion in product names [χ2 (6, N = 1,462) = 70.3, P < 0.001]. Vegetables in the US Department of Agriculture dark green category were more likely to appear in product names (94%; standardized residual [SR] = 2.1), as were other vegetables (62%; SR = 4.9). Vegetable and fruit forms were associated with inclusion in product name [χ2 (4, N = 1,462) = 206.6, P < 0.001]. Juice/juice concentrates were less likely to be included in names (32.4%; SR = −5.4). Conclusions and ImplicationsSubstantial discrepancies exist between ITF ingredient lists and front-of-package product names. When only front-of-package information informs purchases, caregivers may not be purchasing products that facilitate children's building of vegetable preferences.