Abstract
Objective. To explore the perception of the use and comprehension of the nutrition labeling (GDA, NFT, NS) and claims in packaged foods among different socio economic-status (SES). Materials and methods. This was a qualitative study, 12 focus groups were performed in four cities of Mexico. Participants were recruited outside the supermarkets, which were selected according to SES using Basic Geostatistical Areas. The focus groups had a total of 78 participants. Results. Participants perceived several barriers to the use and understanding of the GDA; like technicalities of the terms used, and the format (small font size and percentages). Claims are mistrusted in general. Participants from the high SES believed that the claims are just a marketing strategy. Conclusion. This study shows the consumers' difficulties to understand the current nutrition labeling system regardless SES. These data might call attention in order to implement a simpler nutrition labeling system that is understood regardless of SES.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 10793 |
| Pages (from-to) | 288-297 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Journal | Salud Publica de Mexico |
| Volume | 62 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 8 May 2020 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:This research project was possible due to the generosity of the International Development Research Centre, which funded the grant 106885-001. The authors would like to acknowledge Alejandra, Maria Jose, and Tatiana, for their help with recruitment of participants and data collection.
Publisher Copyright:
© 2020, Instituto Nacional de Salud Publica.
Keywords
- Claims
- Food labeling
- Front of package labeling
- Mexico
- Qualitative research
- Socioeconomic status
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
