Traffic lights or GDAs? Jury still out, reveals new EUFIC study

EUFIC reveals a new study of European consumer research on nutrition labelling on food. The review compiles consumer opinions from 58 different European studies carried out since 2003, sourced from industry, academia, retailers, non-governmental organisations, consumer groups and national governments.

Consumer attitudes to nutrition information & food labelling

The long-term goal of EUFIC is to contribute to a behavioural change of consumers towards healthier and more balanced eating habits by communicating science-based information on food in an understandable and effective way. In that context it is important to understand the contribution and potential of nutrition labels in consumers' decisions of choosing a healthy and balanced diet.

An energy-based approach to nutrition labelling

The nutrition label is an important vehicle through which food manufacturers can communicate essential information about the nutritional value and composition of their product. Potentially, this represents a valuable tool to help consumers make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle. However, it appears that nutrition labels are not always effective in getting the mesage across.

Do our nutrition labels work?

Labels on food are supposed to help us make informed choices about what we eat. Knwoledge about the nutrient composition of our foods is an essential element for choosing a healthy diet. New research by EUFIC suggests, however, that labels are not giving the consumer what they want and are consequently often ignored. Do the current nutrition labelling requirements need to change? Are consumers being listened to? And what do people want from their nutrition labels?

Children's views on food & nutrition

This pan-European study concerning children's views on food and nutrition was commissioned to obtain a basic understanding of the perceptions of European children on food- and drink-related issues. Field work was carried out in December 1994, January 1995 and May 1995.

Global Consumer attitudes to nutrition information on food labels and packaging

Following a workshop held during the First World Congress on Public Health Nutrition, global food information organisations agreed to share their insights into consumer attitudes on nutrition information on food labels and packaging in different parts of the world.

This podcast debate is moderated by Dr. E. Tee Siong, Nutrition Society of Malaysia (Malaysia) and Dr. Jonathan Back, Strategy and Analysis Unit, Health and Consumer Protection Directorate General (DG SANCO), European Commission (Belgium)