Quantitative information processing of nutrition facts panels

Abstract

Purpose – Quantitative information on nutrition labels (nutrition facts panels (NFPs)) is often conveyed in the form of absolute weights (i.e. milligrams or grams) and reference values (i.e. per cent daily values (%DVs)) which provide information regarding nutrient levels within the context of a total daily diet. Some evidence suggests that %DVs are preferred over the weights and may be better at communicating nutrition information. However, age differences are often neglected in past work, thus limiting the understanding how effectively NFPs communicate quantitative information across adulthood. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – Using eye tracking methodology, the present study examined age and preference differences in attention to weights and %DVs on NFPs during two healthfulness judgement tasks. The extent to which attention predicted judgement accuracy was explored and findings were compared to two additional predictors, prior knowledge and NFP numeracy skills. Findings – Although individuals paid attention to both types of quantitative information, attention to %DVs, but not weights, predicted accuracy, on both tasks. For older adults only, preferences for %DVs were related to %DV attention, and this in turn supported accuracy on the single-NFP task. Originality/value – These data show that %DVs are important for healthfulness judgements across age but that preferences for %DVs, together with attention to %DVs, are particularly important for older adults.

The efficacy of sugar labeling formats: Implications for labeling policy

“…Previous research from Health Canada suggests that Canadians struggle with using the %DV to compare across food products to choose healthier products, and only around half of consumers report looking at the %DV information when purchasing products . Conversely, recent eye‐tracking research found that consumers who pay more attention to the %DV values are better able to evaluate the healthfulness of food products . Although the inclusion of a %DV for sugars is not perfect, it does provide some context for consumers.…”