As standards are considered for nutrition front-of-package (FOP) and shelf-labeling systems in the United States, it is important to know what types of systems are most effective in conveying scientifically accurate and useful information to consumers. A systematic literature review identified 38 empirical studies on consumer response to FOP nutrition labeling and shelf labeling. Studies indicate that consumers can more easily interpret and select healthier products with nutrient-specific FOP nutrition labels that incorporate text and symbolic color to indicate nutrient levels rather than nutrient-specific labels that only emphasize numeric information, such as Guideline Daily Amounts expressed as percentages and/or grams. Summary systems may influence consumers to purchase healthier products. However, more research is needed to assess the influence of nutrient-specific labels on consumers’ purchases. This review identified few studies that compared consumers’ ability to select healthier products using nutrient-specific systems that incorporate text and color codes with multiple-level summary icons. More research is needed to determine the effects of FOP nutrition labeling on consumers’ actual shopping behaviors and dietary intakes.
Effects of front-of-package and shelf nutrition labeling systems on consumers
Hersey, J., Wohlgenant, K., Arsenault, J., Kosa, K., & Muth, M. (2013). Effects of front-of-package and shelf nutrition labeling systems on consumers. Nutrition Reviews, 71(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1111/nure.12000
Abstract
Publications Info
To contact an RTI author, request a report, or for additional information about publications by our experts, send us your request.
Meet the Experts
View All ExpertsRecent Publications
OCCASIONAL PAPER
The Preschool Entitlement
OCCASIONAL PAPER
Culturally informed community engagement
Article
Does the relationship between alcohol retail environment and alcohol outcomes vary by depressive symptoms? Findings from a US Survey of Black, Hispanic and White drinkers
Article