Nutrition Labels Research Articles

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Lebanese patients with type II diabetes towards the use and abuse of dietary supplements: A cross-sectional study.

Dietary supplements (DS) use among Lebanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) increased widely due to the country's economic and financial situation. This study was conducted (1) to estimate the prevalence of DS use among persons with T2DM amid the escalating economic crisis in Lebanon; (2) to explore the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of DS use; and (3) to determine any significant association between socio-economic and socio-demographic factors and the use of DS modality. A cross-sectional study was conducted during the worst episode of the economic crisis between October and April 2022 on 460 adult patients with T2DM of both sexes. Patients were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaire. Almost 4 out of 10 patients with T2DM in our study were found to be using DS, where 27.6% take multivitamins frequently. One-third of the participants agreed that nutritional supplements are necessary to control diabetes symptoms and complications. Around 41.1% of the participants complained about hypoglycemia and used DS to control their blood sugar levels (56.4%), while the rest used it to improve their health (35.5%) and control their diet (2.2%). The predictors of DS usage were the patient's level of education [OR=3.9, CI=1.5-10, p=0.003), self-monitoring of blood sugars (OR=4.9, CI=1.68-14.6; p=0.004) and reading the nutrition label [OR=59.3, CI=6.3-55.8, p=0.000]. This study estimated the prevalence of DS use and abuse, among persons with diabetes type II and found three significant predictors of DS use among patients with T2DM. Public health experts should encourage healthy discussions and awareness with their patients to comprehend their views regarding DS use.

Between dissonance and confusion: When the Nutri-Score as a nutritional signal is misinterpreted

The introduction of a mandatory front-of-package nutrition label across the European Union is generating fierce controversy. Specifically, the Nutri-Score has been under debate, which has been reflected in the media. Drawing on signaling theory, this article aims to investigate how some consumers make sense of the Nutri-Score as a signal of nutritional quality in this noisy environment. First, a study analyzes how the media communicates about the Nutri-Score. Second, 15 semi-structured interviews examine how women with children interpret and use the Nutri-Score. Our findings show that media coverage of the Nutri-Score becomes ambiguous over time and that these women experience confusion due to cognitive dissonance and lack of knowledge. This article contributes to the literature on nutrition labeling and highlights the risks of confusion in interpreting this signal of nutritional quality. It suggests implications for policymakers and economic actors to promote the use of the Nutri-Score while reducing information asymmetry.

Innovation of Processed Baronang Fish as One of The Local Food Products in Gebang Village, Pesawaran

Gebang Pesawaran Village is an area that occupies a coastal area and has quite abundant marine products, but the potential for utilization is less than optimal and there is no food made from any of the existing marine products. This research aims to explore the potential of rabbitfish itself and to create local food products that are losng-lasting but still nutritious in Gebang Pesawaran Village. It is also an effort to create a variety of food dishes that do not only depend on one type of ingredient, but also utilize a variety of food ingredients. The product made in this research was serundeng with coconut and rabbitfish as the basic ingredients, which was named Seronang. The method used in this research is qualitative with a descriptive approach. The results of the research show that the baronang fish serundeng product is a new food innovation in Gebang Village. This product has passed food chemical test analysis and has a nutritional value information label to make it easier for consumers to consume the product. From the results of chemical food tests, it is known that the nutritional content contained in baronang fish serundeng products includes air content of 5.4481%, glucose 6.1474%, fat 32.8965%, carbohydrates 31.8109%, protein 23.6970%, and vitamins 8.8597%.

The role of cognitive biases involving selective interrogation of taste-based information in sugar-sweetened beverage consumption

Background and objectivesConsumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is a global public health issue. Consequently, there is strong interest in advancing understanding of the cognitive mechanisms that underpin excessive SSB consumption. This work proposes that selective interrogation of taste-based characteristics (e.g., flavour), rather than health-based characteristics (e.g., sugar content), of beverages is associated with greater SSB choice and consumption. MethodsTo evaluate this novel hypothesis, undergraduate students (n = 210) were recruited to complete self-report measures of SSB consumption, motivation and success in reducing SSB consumption and unhealthy eating more broadly, as well as a novel selective interrogation assessment task. This task provided participants with the opportunity to selectively interrogate taste-based and health-based characteristics of various mystery beverages. ResultsResults supported the hypothesis that greater selective interrogation of taste-based characteristics, rather than health-based characteristics, of beverages is associated with greater SSB choice and consumption. Additionally, results revealed that greater selective interrogation of taste-based characteristics was associated with decreased motivation to reduce SSB consumption and decreased motivation and success to reduce unhealthy consumption more broadly. LimitationsThe current study did not evaluate whether selective interrogation of taste-based characteristics of beverages predicted actual SSB consumption. ConclusionThese findings provide novel evidence for the potential role of selective interrogation of taste-based characteristics of beverages in SSB choice and consumption. An important implication of these findings is that in order for interventions focusing on front-of-package nutrition labels to be effective in reducing unhealthy consumption, it is necessary that individuals are selectively interrogating this ‘health-based’ information.

Becoming Healthier without Paying More? Experimental Evidence from the Impact of Multiple Traffic Lights on Chinese College Students.

The prevalence of overweight and obesity among Chinese residents has become a pressing public health concern. The UK Multiple Traffic Light labeling system, known for its user-friendly design, has demonstrated success in promoting healthier food choices. This paper presents novel findings from a randomized controlled experiment assessing the impact of traffic light labeling on Chinese consumers' food choices. Results indicate that the label significantly reduces the intake of calories, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium without increasing the economic costs of food choices. This study contributes empirical evidence to the effectiveness of traffic light labeling in China, with implications for the country's approach to front-of-pack nutrition labeling.

Nutritional Assessment of Protein and Sodium Contents in Commercial Senior-Friendly Foods.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutritional adequacy of senior-friendly foods sold in Korea, focusing on protein and sodium. This study examined the nutritional content of 170 products with nutritional labels that were sold in online stores in Korea and categorized the products into 93 staple foods (cooked rice, porridge, and mousse) and 77 side-dish and snack foods (braized·steam·roast products, broth, sauces, and snacks). Then, the adequacy of the nutritional content of these foods, focusing on protein and sodium, was evaluated according to product type. The 93 staple products and 77 side-dish products had average serving sizes of 163.27 g and 127.92 g, prices of $3.25 and $2.72, and energy contents of 295.25 kcal and 141.95 kcal, respectively. For staple foods, the energy content was significantly greater in cooked rice, but the protein content and index of nutrition quality (INQ) were significantly greater in mousse. There were no significant differences in sodium content or contribution to adequate intake (AI) by product type, but the sodium INQ was significantly greater in the mousse and porridge. For side-dish foods and snack products, the protein content, contribution to the recommended intake, and INQ were all significantly greater for the braized·steam·roast products. Sauces and braized·steam·roast products were significantly higher in sodium content and contribution to the AI, while broth was significantly higher in sodium INQ. These findings can be used to guide proper product selection and nutritional management that considers the health characteristics of health-vulnerable and elderly people.

Phosphorus Content of Several Plant-Based Yogurts

ObjectiveIn people with chronic kidney disease (CKD), hyperphosphatemia is an independent risk factor for mortality in observational studies. Despite not having proven benefit, dietary control of phosphorus is thought to be essential in CKD. Though dietary and serum phosphorus are correlated, ingested phosphate is less bioavailable from plant-foods rich in phytate than from animal and processed foods. Yogurt is considered a useful food due to its relatively low phosphorus and high protein content but may be detrimental since the protein content is from animal sources. Instead, plant-based yogurts (PBYs) may offer similar benefits without the associated downsides of animal protein in kidney disease, but little is known about the phosphorus contents of PBYs. Design and MethodsProtein contents and phosphorus additives were obtained from nutrition labels of several, widely available PBYs of almond, cashew, oat, coconut, and soy substrates. Phosphorus content was measured via emission spectrometry by Eurofins (Madison, WI). Based on these data, phosphorus-to-protein ratio (PPR) for each PBY was calculated. ResultsPhosphorus was highest in Silk Soy Strawberry, then Silk Almond Strawberry and Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries. Phosphorus was lowest in So Delicious Coconut Strawberry, then Oatly Oat Strawberry, Forager Cashew Strawberry, and Kite Hill Almond Strawberry. According to the ingredient labels, Silk Soy Strawberry, Silk Almond Strawberry, and Oatly Oat Strawberry contained phosphorus additives while Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries contained pea protein additives. Of PBYs from the same substrate class, So Delicious Coconut Strawberry and Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries had the largest differences in their phosphorus and protein contents. These seven samples’ PPR ratios were higher than that of dairy yogurt values reported from the literature, including Stonyfield Organic Oikos Strawberry, Chobani Nonfat Strawberry, and Yoplait Greek Strawberry. ConclusionLow phosphorus-to-protein ratio (PPR) foods are emphasized for people with CKD. Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries had the lowest PPR. However, So Delicious Coconut Strawberry had the highest ratio which underscores product variability despite both using the same PBY substrate. Of the samples analyzed, Siggi’s Coconut Mixed Berries may be the most desirable for patients with CKD because its PPR was the lowest.

Traffic light nutrition labelling policy: A path to promoting healthier eating habits in Pakistan.

Dear Editor, While the global burden of diet-related diseases continues to escalate1, it is disheartening to see that Pakistan, like many other Lower-Middle Income Countries (LMICs)2, has not yet ultimately adopted the system that can significantly assist consumers in making healthier food decisions. In Pakistan, the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and other non-communicable disease conditions is on the rise, posing a substantial economic and health burden on individuals and the healthcare system2. Many countries like the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom use the traffic light nutrition labeling system, which is a valuable tool for empowering consumers to make informed food choices quickly 3. It provides a simple way for people to quickly assess the nutritional value of a product using a color-coding system3. Green labels indicate healthier options, amber labels suggest moderate consumption and red labels highlight food that should be consumed sparingly4. The simple color-coding system empowers consumers to make healthier decisions and can contribute to a reduction in diet-related diseases4. The traffic light system works particularly well in settings with high illiteracy rates, as is prevalent in Pakistan since it relies on simple color coding rather than textual information5. As consumers, we lack a clear and uniform method for evaluating the nutritional components of the food we buy. This deficiency not only obstructs the capacity to make healthy food choices but also sustains the prevalence of diet-related issues. Color-coded labeling would help people with low literacy levels to understand the nutrition information available on food products easily. However, Traffic Light nutrition labelling has not been adopted in Pakistan. To confront this challenge, policymakers, health organizations, and government authorities should take swift and decisive action. The government must take the lead in implementing clear regulations that mandate the use of traffic light nutrition labels on packaged food items. These regulations should accompany strict enforcement measures. Launching public awareness campaigns about the benefits of the traffic light system can help familiarize consumers with this approach and generate demand for healthier food products. Collaboration and engagement with food manufacturers and retailers to ensure a smooth transition to the traffic light system is imperative to encourage the production of healthier food consumption. Implement a system of periodic reviews and updates of the labeling system to ensure its collective effectiveness and relevance to the evolving nutritional landscape. ---Continue

Impact of Nutrition Labeling on Food Choices and Diet Quality in France

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of nutrition labeling on food choices and diet quality in France. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In France, the Nutri-Score labeling system has been found to significantly influence food choices towards healthier options by providing clear nutritional information on packaged foods. Studies indicate that consumers are more likely to select products with higher Nutri-Score ratings, indicative of healthier nutritional profiles, leading to improved overall diet quality and potentially reducing the risk of diet-related health issues. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Health belief model (HBM), theory of planned behavior (TPB) & social cognitive theory (SCT) may be used to anchor future studies on impact of nutrition labeling on food choices and diet quality in France. Emphasize interpretive labels that simplify complex nutritional information and facilitate quick comprehension across diverse demographic and cultural groups. Advocate for harmonized nutrition labeling regulations at national and international levels to ensure consistency and comparability across products and regions.

Safe, sustainable, and nutritious food labels: A market segmentation of fresh vegetables consumers

Food labels can help consumers make choices by providing information regarding the nutritional content, food safety, and environmental footprint of a product. As the number of food labels in the marketplace increases, and so does the information overload, food retailers are continuously challenged to assess consumers' choices for labels. In addition, consumer heterogeneity and changing regulations and demand have yielded inconsistent findings on consumers’ preferences for food labels. This study used a three-step approach to identify the market segments of fresh vegetables (FVs) consumers based on their preferences for a comprehensive list of labels conveying food safety, nutritional benefits, and pro-environmental attributes. A principal component analysis yielded three factors that grouped FVs labels. The cluster analysis yielded four segments of consumers that were identified with statistically different concerns and priorities. The Label Conscious highly valued all the food safety, nutritional, and pro-environmental labels when buying fresh vegetables, the Wellness Enthusiasts mainly valued nutritional and pro-environmental labels, the Safe Veggies searched for FVs that are free of harmful chemicals with a focus on traceability and safety inspections, and the DIYers reported the lowest valuation for all food labels, especially those conveying FVs are pre-washed and ready-to-eat. Lastly, a multinomial probit model showed that cluster membership was driven by education, consumption of FVs, information sources, and perceptions. Findings can help policymakers, researchers, and retailers tailor food labels more effectively when marketing FVs to specific consumer segments.

Effectiveness of front-of-pack nutritional labels: evidence from Sugar-sweetened beverages in China

ABSTRACT This study investigates the effectiveness of various front-of-pack labels in influencing individuals’ healthy food valuations, in the context of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption in China. Using a between-subject design and an online discrete choice experiment, we test six nutrition labels categorized as nutrient-specific FOP labels (traffic light label, warning label, nutrition claims) and summary FOP labels (health-tick label, physical activity labels), and non-interpretative labels (nutrition facts panel). Empirical results from a sample of 1,800 urban Chinese consumers revealed that the most effective front-of-pack nutrition label is the warning label, followed by traffic light labels and health-tick labels. Warning label treatment yields the greatest decline in consumer willingness to pay for both high-sugar and excessive-sugar beverage products. In contrast, physical-activity labels and nutrition claims have lower effectiveness in discouraging the valuation of high-sugar beverages, but the two labels still outperform the conventional and back-of-pack nutrition facts panels. Policy implications for promoting healthy food choices are discussed in light of these findings.

Effects of Genotype and Growing Year on the Nutritional Composition and Pasting Properties of Glabrous Canary Seed (Phalaris canariensis L.) Groat Flours.

Canary seed flour is a new food ingredient that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada recently granted Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) status. Stability in nutritional composition and functional properties is an essential characteristic of food ingredients for consistency in nutritional quality and performance in processing. This work assessed the effect of genotypic and environmental variation on the nutritional (protein, starch, amylose, oil, dietary fiber, minerals and fat-soluble vitamins) and pasting (as measured in viscosity (peak, trough, breakdown, final, and setback), peak time, and pasting temperatures) properties of Canary seed. The samples included four Canary seed varieties grown in randomized complete block design experiments at one location for two growing seasons. In general, the nutritional composition of Canary seed flour was not affected by genotype, growing year, and their interaction except for starch content, which was significantly affected by the growing year (p < 0.0001), and iron content, which was affected by genotypic variation (p < 0.0001). The pasting properties of Canary seed flour were significantly (p < 0.001) affected by both genotypic and growing year variation but not their interaction. Our results suggest that the food industry should measure starch and iron content prior to processing to ensure consistency in nutritional labeling. Also, for those applications where starch pasting properties are essential, the manufacturer should consider measuring the RVA pasting viscosities for every batch of raw material. The results have provided the baseline knowledge of which nutritional or functional properties of Canary seed flour can be improved through breeding and agronomy programs to ensure the reliability of Canary seed as an ingredient.

Food, nutrition, and related policy issues: Evidence-based policy and the credibility crisis

Abstract In recent years, the push for evidence-based policy has gained momentum, particularly in the field of food and nutrition, where the stakes for public health are high, underscoring the need for aligning policy with robust scientific evidence. This paper examines the credibility crisis in evidence-based policymaking, highlighting challenges such as conflicts of interest and misuse of scientific findings. We delve into the complexities of food policies, including nutrition labeling and food assistance programs, and discuss the limitations of relying on single studies and short-term impacts for policymaking. The paper explores perverse incentives within the policy research ecosystem and illustrates potential bias and the lack of equipoise in research design. We conclude with recommendations for enhancing the credibility of evidence-based policy, emphasizing the importance of independence, relevance, and transparency in research citations and the need for dynamic policy responses informed by ongoing scientific developments.

The Relation between Consumer Perception and Objective Understanding of Front-of-Package Nutrition Labels (FOPNLs); Results from an Online Representative Survey.

This study investigates the efficacy of Front-of-Pack Nutrition Labels (FOPNLs) as a cost-effective tool for improving dietary choices among Greek consumers. The purpose of the study was to investigate Greek customers' preferences and comprehension of commonly used European FOPNL schemes. The Hellenic Food Authority and the Agricultural University of Athens performed a representative online survey in March 2022, titled "The Role of Nutritional Labelling in Public Perception and Food Procurement." Consumers responded to a questionnaire separated into two parts. Part one included (i) personal, sociodemographic information, and (ii) subjective opinions on the FOPNL schemes, and part two comprised (iii) an objective understanding of NutriScore and NutrInform Battery, using 15 different foods. Participants were randomly allocated to these groups, and general mixed models were used for analysis. A total of 1389 adults completed the first part of the survey, and 74.8% completed the second part. The Multiple Traffic Lights scheme was the preferred FOPNL, chosen by 48.4% of respondents, compared to 19.7% for NutrInform Battery and 12.3% for NutriScore. However, the mean objective assessment score was highest for NutriScore (5.8 ± 2.3) compared to NutrInform Battery (5.4 ± 1.9). The results highlight the necessity for comprehensive nutrition education programs by showing a considerable gap between subjective preferences and an objective understanding of nutrition labels.

A Survey on Nutrition Labeling for Sodium, Potassium, and Phosphorus of Packaged Food and Beverages

Nutrition labeling is important to guide patients with chronic kidney disease to make informed choices. This study aimed to evaluate the extent and accessibility of nutrition labeling for sodium, potassium, and phosphorus on food and beverage products in a supermarket. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in a Malaysian supermarket. Information on sodium, potassium, and phosphorus contents was collected from the nutrition fact panel, while information on food additives containing sodium, potassium, and phosphorus was collected from the ingredient list. The survey included 2,577 foods and beverages, and 79.4% of the products included sodium information in nutrition fact panels, but only 11.7% and 2.0% disclosed potassium and phosphorus content, respectively. Sodium-containing additives were found in 78.6% of products; potassium- and phosphorus-containing additives were reported in 28.5% and 46.9% of products, respectively. Sodium-containing additives were typically listed as "salt," potassium-containing additives as "alternative names," and phosphorus-containing additives as "starch" and "E numbers." Imported products were more likely to include sodium (P<.001) and phosphorus (p=.036) contents, while more locally manufactured products reported sodium- (p=.003) and phosphorus- (P=.004) containing additives. There is limited availability of potassium and phosphorus information on nutrition labels in Malaysia food and beverage products, which presents significant challenges for individuals with chronic kidney disease in choosing appropriate products for their dietary needs.

Digital native students using nutritional apps: are they more adherent to a mediterranean diet model? Results from the good APPetite survey

Reading and understanding food labels are crucial steps in healthy dietary choices. Nutrition-related applications (n-apps) have increased in the recent years and the aim of this study was to assess the use and the perception of n-apps among a population of university students, also investigating the attitude and relationship with reading food labels and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (Medi-Lite score).In 2023, 316 students, mainly attending the courses of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dietetics at the University of Brescia, Italy, completed an anonymous and specifically designed survey. 33.9% of the students stated that they use or have used n-apps. The most used apps were Yuka, MyFitnessPal, Fat Secret and Yazio, especially for the ease of use, speed, nutritional values estimation and barcode reading. 53.2% and 53.5% of the students declared to be food information and nutrition label readers respectively and the Medi-Lite mean value was 9.98 ± 2.46. N-app-users were significantly more attentive to food information and nutrition label than app not-users (both p < 0.0001) and recorded a Medi-Lite score significantly higher (p = 0.0131).The present study found for the first time an extensive correlation between the use of n-apps, the food labels awareness and healthy eating habits in a digitally native population.

Minerals and dietary fibre source snack made from Moringa leaves enriched with ginger

The findings from the 2021 Indonesian Nutritional Status Study reveal a substantial 24.4% prevalence of child stunting, emphasizing the need for diverse strategies to achieve the desired target. One such strategy involves ensuring the nutritional well-being of expectant mothers to prevent stunting. Moringa leaves are a rich source of essential nutrients. Incorporating Moringa leaf powder into catfish flour-based snacks can boost their protein and mineral content while overcoming any undesirable odors, though this application is currently limited to crackers. This study aimed to create snack products using Moringa leaves, such as tea, brownies, and pudding, with the addition of ginger to enhance dietary fiber and mineral content for pregnant women. The top formulations identified through sensory assessment are F1 tea, F1 brownies, and F2 pudding. These specific tea, brownies, and pudding variations boast dietary fiber content exceeding 3 grams and meet or exceed 15% of the recommended daily intake levels for iron and zinc for pregnant women, as stipulated by the nutrition label reference. As a result, they can be classified as wholesome snacks rich in dietary fiber, iron, and zinc.

Thinking fast, not slow: intuitive nutrition labels increase healthier food preferences under time pressure

PurposeFront-of-pack (FOP) nutrition labeling has attracted considerable attention in a wide range of communities. However, the limited effects of FOP nutrition labels on healthier food preferences have been reported. Drawing on the dual system theory, this study aimed to investigate which FOP nutrition labels increase healthier food preferences and when. Drawing on the dual-process theory, this study aimed to investigate the effects of Nutri-Scores on healthy food preferences under time pressure.Design/methodology/approachParticipants saw two food packages (healthier and less healthy) with either intuitive (nutrient score) or numeric FOP labels. They then had to choose one of their preferred products with or without time pressure.FindingsAcross two studies (including one pre-registered replication), the results consistently demonstrated that the Nutri-Score (vs numeric labels) increases healthier food preferences under time pressure. No significant difference in the likelihood of choosing healthier food was found between the labels under non-time pressure.Originality/valueTogether, our results suggest that intuitive FOP labeling (i.e. Nutri-Score) enhances healthier food preferences during Type 1 processing and provides practical implications for promoting healthy eating.

The Impact of Food Nutrition Labels on Consumer Behavior: A Cross-national Survey and Quantitative Analysis

The Impact of Food Nutrition Labels on Consumer Behavior: A Cross-national Survey and Quantitative Analysis

In vitro protein digestibility to replace in vivo digestibility for purposes of nutrient content claim substantiation in North America's context

The reliance by North American regulatory authorities on in vivo rodent bioassays—Protein Correct-Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) in the U.S. and Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) in Canada—to measure the protein quality for protein content claim substantiation represents a major barrier for innovation in the development and marketing of protein foods. Although FAO in 2013 proposed a new method (Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score, DIAAS), it is still not used for protein content claim substantiation in any jurisdiction. Together with public health efforts to increase the consumption of plant-based foods, removing hurdles is key to incentivizing the food industry to measure protein digestibility in making food formulation decisions as well as in claiming protein content on product labels. To address this issue, a pathway has been proposed to position alternative methods for in vitro protein digestibility in collaborative studies to generate the data necessary for method approval by a certifying body. The latter is critical to the potential recognition of these methods by both Health Canada and the US FDA. The purpose of this article is to briefly summarize the state-of-the-art in the field, to inform the research community of next steps, and to describe the path engaging collaborative laboratories in a proficiency test as the first step in moving forward toward acceptance of in vitro digestibility methods. Throughout, a consultative and iterative process will be utilized to ensure the program goals are met. Success will be achieved when the proposed path results in the acceptance of an in vitro methods for protein digestibility used for PDCAAS determinations, which will enable increased protein analyses and improved nutrition labeling of protein foods.