Leaner Choices? The Potential Influence of the Inclusion of Nutrition Facts Panels on Consumer Evaluations and Choices of Ground Beef Products

Abstract

In March 2012, retailers were required to disclose nutrition information on packaging for all ground and chopped products (e.g., ground beef, turkey) and hamburger. Drawing from this legislation, the authors develop and test hypotheses based on internal reference points and assimilation of external values. The results of three studies (a cross-sectional survey and two between-subjects experiments) indicate that the inclusion of a Nutrition Facts panel (NFP) on ground beef packaging moderates the effects of the lean-to-fat ratio on consumers' product evaluations. Because consumers' internal reference points are higher than the relatively low level of calories, fat, and saturated fat found in lean ground beef, nutrition information disclosure improves attribute evaluations. In addition, for the fattier options, provision of the NFP increases diet-related disease risk perceptions and decreases both perceived healthfulness and purchase intentions. The results also show that inclusion of the NFP has a favorable effect on the choice of leaner ground beef options and diminishes the choice of options with higher calories and fat levels. The authors offer potential implications of the findings for policy and consumer welfare.