The understanding and usage of food labels among supermarket clients

Abstract

This study was carried out, to measure the level of understanding and usage of food labels among supermarket clients. Studies found in the literature, demonstrate that the majority of the clients understood the information found on the food labels and clients had the necessary nutritional knowledge to understand the information found on the food label. Past studies have shown that clients considered food labels as an important source of information. In fact, studies found in the literature showed that the majority of clients used the food labels/ Nutritional Information Panels. In this study, a quantitative approach was taken. The data collection tools used for this study were: a structured direct observation and a structured interview. This combination was deemed necessary, to fulfill the aims and objectives of the study. The findings of this study showed that the majority of the clients have almost understood all the information found on the food label. Most of the interviewed clients did not have the nutritional knowledge that is necessary to understand the information found on the food label. With regards to food label usage, this study showed that almost all food labels of those food products that were chosen by the clients were used. On the other hand, this study showed that only one fifth of the Nutritional Information Panels were used while clients were doing their shopping. As a result of this study, recommendations for nutrition educational campaigns are given. For example, an educational campaign about the information found on the food labels can be conducted. Furthermore, suggestions for further research are given.