RESUMO
This study investigated the presence of front-of-package labeling on food products in major retailers in Brazil after its implementation in 2022. Carried out from May to October 2023, we analyzed 2145 products of brands present in five Brazilian states. A total of 541 products presented front-of-package warnings. The categories varied in their adherence to front-of-package labeling, highlighting a prevalence of combined warnings, such as high in added sugar and high in saturated fat on sweet biscuits and chocolates. Sausages showed a high prevalence of high in sodium and high in saturated fat warnings. Beverages stood out as high in added sugar, while fats, dairy products, frozen preparations, seasonings, and sauces presented diversity in the warnings. Other products, such as panettone, showed a high presence of alerts. The study demonstrated the widespread presence of front-of-package labeling on ultra-processed products highly consumed by the Brazilian population. Considering the alarming presence of these foods in the Brazilian diet, it is concluded that front-of-package nutrition labeling is crucial to inform and raise awareness among consumers, allowing healthier choices and potentially contributing to a reduction in chronic diseases and the costs associated with treatment in the health system.
Assuntos
Bebidas , Rotulagem de Alimentos , Brasil , Açúcares , Laticínios , Valor Nutritivo , Comportamento do ConsumidorRESUMO
Introduction: In 2020, Brazil approved the introduction of a new front-of-package nutrition labeling (FoPNL) in the format of a magnifying glass (MG) after years of discussion. There is currently a lack of understanding of the role of the food industry in that process. This study aimed to describe the corporate political activity (CPA) of the food industry and conflicts of interest situations, as they happened during the development and approval of a new FoPNL system in Brazil. Materials and methods: We undertook bibliographical and documentary searches using material from food companies, trade associations and front groups involved in the regulatory process. We (1) collected information about the case study context, (2) collected data from documentary sources, and (3) prepared a synthesis of the results and a timeline of key events. Results/Discussion: During the FoPNL regulatory process in Brazil, the food industry opposed the introduction of warning labels, a model supported by health authorities and implemented with success in other countries in Latin America. The food industry rather promoted a traffic-light labeling system, known to be less effective at guiding individuals to make healthier food choices. Later in the process, when it was evident that its preferred model would not be used, and a MG would rather be introduced, the food industry argued for the use of a different version of this FoPNL model. We found that the food industry, all along the process, was directly involved in and influenced the development of the FoPNL, by providing technical support, advising and lobbying policymakers. The food industry also established relationships with a consumer non-governmental organization and nutrition professional societies. The food industry also produced and disseminated information supporting its position in order to influence public opinion and high-level decision makers, and used the legal system to delay the process. Conclusion: The FoPNL in Brazil is neither aligned with the recommendations of international health organizations nor with existing independent scientific evidence. The new FoPNL, as adopted in Brazil, reflects some of the preferences of the industry; it is likely that the influence of that sector during the legislative process was pivotal, even if its initial proposal was not adopted.
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Front-of-package warning label (FOPWL) policies incentivize the food industry to reduce the content of regulated nutrients in products. We explored changes in the content of nutrients of concern (sugar, saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium) and the percentage of products in the Peruvian food supply that would carry a FOPWL before and after Peru's implementation of FOPWLs. Longitudinal data on the top-selling foods and beverages (n = 94) were collected at three time points: three months before the implementation of the policy, four months after, and two years after. Using the nutritional information declared on products' labels, we compared quantities of nutrients of concern and the percentage of foods that would carry a FOPWL at each time point. Between the first and the third data collection, a decrease in the median sugar content of beverages was observed (from 9.0 to 5.9 g/100 mL, p = 0.005), accompanied by an increase in the use of nonnutritive sweeteners. This change drove the reduction of the percentage of beverages that would carry a FOPWL (from 59 to 31%, p = 0.011). Among foods, decreases were observed in saturated fat (from 6.7 to 5.9 g/100 g, p = 0.002). The percentage of foods that would carry a FOPWL according to their nutritional profile declined from before to after implementation of the policy (from 82 to 62%, p < 0.001). The study shows that the industry reformulated products in Peru after implementation of its FOPWL policy.
Assuntos
Rotulagem de Alimentos , Alimento Processado , Peru , Bebidas , Abastecimento de Alimentos , Açúcares , Edulcorantes , Ácidos Graxos , Valor NutritivoRESUMO
Chile recently implemented a food labeling law that requires packaged foods with sugar, saturated fats, sodium, and/or calorie content that exceeds government-defined thresholds to carry a front-of-package warning for each excessive nutrient. This law does not prohibit the use of nutrient content (NC) marketing claims on packages, as long as the claims do not directly contradict the warnings. Yet, having NC claims alongside nutrient warnings might send mixed messages confusing consumers about the overall healthiness of a product. The present study tests the co-occurrence of warning labels and NC claims in breakfast cereal packages on product perceptions and behavioral intentions of Chilean adults in a 3 (warnings: none, high calorie, high calorie/high sugar) × 3 (NC claims: none, fiber/wholegrain, low fat/cholesterol-free) mixed-measures experiment. Fiber-related claims had a main effect leading to more positive ratings of the product, compared to having no NC claims or fat-related claims. These positive ratings extended beyond perceptions of the fiber content to perceptions of overall healthiness, naturalness, quality, vitamin content, and intentions to purchase and recommend the product-a health halo effect. No significant interaction between warnings and NC claims was found. However, warnings had a main effect on perceptions irrespective of the presence of NC claims, with one warning significantly reducing ratings, dampening any halo effects, and two warnings further dampening any effects. These findings indicate that warning labels can mitigate, but not eliminate the influences of NC claims on consumer perceptions of product healthiness.
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Desjejum , Grão Comestível , Adulto , Chile , Modificador do Efeito Epidemiológico , Rotulagem de Alimentos , Humanos , Nutrientes , Valor NutritivoRESUMO
The Objective is to determine the stages of change in the behavior of university students regarding the purchase of ultra-processed snacks consumed. Multi-center study (14 Chilean universities). The participants (4,807 students)evaluated were applied a survey to determine the stage of change of behavior regarding the purchase of foods with warning signs. The students were evaluated and classified as (a) Nutrition Students, (b) Healthcare-related Students and (c) Other degree Students. More than 90% of the students were aware of the food regulation and knew the warning signs. More than 60% of Healthcare-related and Other degree students are in the stage of pre-contemplation or contemplation regarding purchase intent of sugary drinks, juices, cookies, sweet snacks and potato chips; this value is twice the percentage of Nutrition students in this stages ( Chi2, p<0.001). In conclusion there is a high proportion of pre-contemplation and contemplation with respect to purchase intent among the students(AU)
Determinar las etapas de cambio en el comportamiento de los estudiantes universitarios con respecto a la compra de colaciones ultraprocesadas. Estudio Multicéntrico (14 universidades chilenas). A los participantes (4.807 estudiantes) se les aplicó una encuesta para determinar el cambio en el comportamiento con respecto a la compra de alimentos con sellos de advertencia. Los estudiantes se clasificaron como (a) estudiantes de nutrición, (b) estudiantes del área de la salud y (c) estudiantes de otras carreras. Se evaluaron. Más del 90% de los estudiantes conocían la regulación alimentaria y conocían las señales de advertencia. Más del 60% de los estudiantes de la salud y de otras carreras se encuentran en la etapa de pre-contemplación o contemplación con respecto a la intención de compra de bebidas azucaradas, jugos, galletas, bocadillos dulces y papas fritas; Este valor es el doble del porcentaje de estudiantes de nutrición en estas etapas ( Chi2, p <0,001). Se concluye que existe una alta proporción de pre-contemplación y contemplación con respecto a la intención de compra entre los estudiantes universitarios(AU)
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Feminino , Adulto , Sobrepeso , Comportamento Alimentar , Lanches , Manipulação de Alimentos , Açúcares da Dieta , Universidades , Saúde do Estudante , Doenças não TransmissíveisRESUMO
Policies to require warnings on the front of food and drinks high in nutrients of concern (e.g., added sugar, sodium, or saturated fat) are becoming increasingly common as an obesity prevention strategy. Colombia, a country with growing prevalence of obesity, is considering implementing a similar policy. The objective of this study was to assess perceptions and reactions to different warning designs. We conducted a randomized experiment in an online panel of adults age > 18y (n = 1997). Participants were randomized to view one of four labels: a control label (barcode), an octagon warning, a circle warning, and a triangle warning. Participants viewed their randomly assigned label on a series of products and answered questions (continuous outcomes ranged from 1-4). Compared to the control, all warnings led to higher perceived message effectiveness (increase in mean from 1.79 in the control to 2.59-2.65 in the warning conditions, p < 0.001), a higher percentage of participants who correctly identified products high in nutrients of concern (from 48% in the control condition to 84-89% in the warning conditions, p < 0.001), and reduced intentions to purchases these products (decrease in mean from 2.59 to 1.99-2.01 in the warning conditions, p < 0.001). Relative to the control, warnings performed similarly across education levels, suggesting this policy would be equitable in Colombia. Looking at differences by warning type, the pattern of results suggested that the octagon warnings performed best. After viewing all label types, 49% of participants selected the octagon warning as the one that most discouraged them from consuming products high in nutrients of concern, while 21% and 27% selected the circle and triangle warning. Colombian policymakers should consider the octagon warning as part of a front-of-package labeling policy to help consumers identify and reduce consumption of foods and drinks high in nutrients of concern.
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Comportamento do Consumidor , Gorduras na Dieta/efeitos adversos , Gorduras na Dieta/análise , Açúcares da Dieta/administração & dosagem , Açúcares da Dieta/efeitos adversos , Ácidos Graxos/administração & dosagem , Ácidos Graxos/efeitos adversos , Comportamento Alimentar/psicologia , Análise de Alimentos , Rotulagem de Alimentos/legislação & jurisprudência , Rotulagem de Alimentos/métodos , Alimentos , Legislação sobre Alimentos , Política Nutricional/legislação & jurisprudência , Obesidade/prevenção & controle , Bebidas Adoçadas com Açúcar/efeitos adversos , Bebidas Adoçadas com Açúcar/análise , Adulto , Colômbia/epidemiologia , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Obesidade/epidemiologia , Prevalência , Adulto JovemRESUMO
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. CONCLUSIONS: 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.
OBJETIVO: Explorar la percepción sobre el uso y la comprensión del etiquetado de alimentos (GDA, NFT, NS) y sobre las declaraciones de alimentos empaquetados entre diferentes niveles socioeconómicos (NSE). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio cualitativo en el que se formaron 12 grupos focales en cuatro ciudades de México. Los participantes fueron reclutados afuera de supermercados y fueron seleccionados por nivel socioeconómico, a partir de Áreas Geoestadísticas Básicas. El número total de participantes fue 78. RESULTADOS: Los participantes percibieron barreras para el uso y comprensión del GDA como términos técnicos utilizados, fuente pequeña y porcentajes numéricos. Se reportó desconfianza hacia las declaraciones en alimentos empaquetados. Los participantes del NSE alto perciben que las declaraciones son estrategia de marketing. CONCLUSIONES: Este estudio muestra las dificultades para entender el etiquetado de alimentos actual entre diferentes NSE. Estos datos enfatizan la necesidad de implementar un etiquetado que sea comprendido entre NSE.
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Atitude , Compreensão , Grupos Focais , Rotulagem de Alimentos , Classe Social , Adulto , Cidades , Comportamento do Consumidor , Feminino , Grupos Focais/estatística & dados numéricos , Humanos , Masculino , México , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Política Nutricional , Impressão/normas , Pesquisa Qualitativa , Terminologia como AssuntoRESUMO
Abstract: Objectiv: 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.
Resumen: Objetivo: Explorar la percepción sobre el uso y la comprensión del etiquetado de alimentos (GDA, NFT, NS) y sobre las declaraciones de alimentos empaquetados entre diferentes niveles socioeconómicos (NSE). Material y métodos: Estudio cualitativo en el que se formaron 12 grupos focales en cuatro ciudades de México. Los participantes fueron reclutados afuera de supermercados y fueron seleccionados por nivel socioeconómico, a partir de Áreas Geoestadísticas Básicas. El número total de participantes fue 78. Resultados: Los participantes percibieron barreras para el uso y comprensión del GDA como términos técnicos utilizados, fuente pequeña y porcentajes numéricos. Se reportó desconfianza hacia las declaraciones en alimentos empaquetados. Los participantes del NSE alto perciben que las declaraciones son estrategia de marketing. Conclusión: Este estudio muestra las dificultades para entender el etiquetado de alimentos actual entre diferentes NSE. Estos datos enfatizan la necesidad de implementar un etiquetado que sea comprendido entre NSE.
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Adulto , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Classe Social , Atitude , Grupos Focais , Compreensão , Rotulagem de Alimentos , Impressão/normas , Cidades , Grupos Focais/estatística & dados numéricos , Política Nutricional , Comportamento do Consumidor , Pesquisa Qualitativa , México , Terminologia como AssuntoRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, can be prevented and treated through a balanced nutrient-rich diet. Nutrition labels have been recognized as crucial to preventing obesity and non-communicable diseases through a healthier diet. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to examine the association between nutrition label use and chronic conditions (overweight, obesity, previously diagnosed diabetes, and hypertension) among an adult Mexican population. DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional study that used data from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey of 2016 (ENSANUT MC 2016). PARTICIPANTS/SETTING: The participants were 5,013 adults aged 20 to 70 years old. Older adults (>70 years), illiterate participants, pregnant women, and participants with implausible blood pressure data were excluded from the sample. The survey was conducted from May to August 2016 in the participants' households. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: We measured chronic conditions (overweight, obesity, previously diagnosed diabetes, and hypertension). STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED: Pearson χ2 test was used to examine the associations among the use of nutrition labels and sociodemographic characteristics and chronic conditions. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the association between nutrition label use and chronic conditions adjusting for the effect of confounding variables like sex, age, body mass index, education level, marital status, ethnicity, residence area, region, and socioeconomic status. RESULTS: From the total sample, 40.9% (95% CI 38.4% to 43.8%) reported using nutrition labeling. Respondents with overweight or obesity were less likely to use nutrition labels (odds ratio 0.74; P<0.05). Participants who self-reported diabetes had significantly lower odds of nutrition label use than participants who did not report to have diabetes (odds ratio 0.66; P<0.05). Participants having 3 chronic conditions had lower odds of nutrition label use (odds ratio 0.34; P<0.01) relative to having zero chronic conditions. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests an association between nutrition label use and chronic conditions (obesity and diabetes). These findings demonstrate that people with obesity, diabetes, and a combination of chronic conditions were less likely to use nutrition labels than people without these conditions.
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Doença Crônica/psicologia , Dieta Saudável/psicologia , Rotulagem de Alimentos/estatística & dados numéricos , Preferências Alimentares/psicologia , Comportamentos Relacionados com a Saúde/etnologia , Adulto , Idoso , Doença Crônica/epidemiologia , Doença Crônica/etnologia , Estudos Transversais , Diabetes Mellitus/etnologia , Diabetes Mellitus/psicologia , Dieta Saudável/etnologia , Feminino , Preferências Alimentares/etnologia , Humanos , Modelos Logísticos , Masculino , México/epidemiologia , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Inquéritos Nutricionais , Obesidade/etnologia , Obesidade/psicologia , Razão de Chances , Sobrepeso/etnologia , Sobrepeso/psicologia , Adulto JovemRESUMO
A Mexican Committee of Nutrition Experts (MCNE) from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), free from conflict of interest, established food content standards to place the front-of-package (FOP) logo on foods that meet these nutrition criteria. The objectives were to simulate the effect on nutrient intake in the Mexican adult population (20-59 years old) after replacing commonly consumed processed foods with those that meet the FOP nutrition-labeling criteria. Twenty-four hour dietary recalls were collected from the 2012 Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey (n = 2164 adults). A food database from the INSP was used. Weighted medians and 25-75 inter-quartile ranges (IQR) of energy and nutrient intake were calculated for all subjects by sociodemographic characteristics before and after replacing foods. Significant decreases were observed in energy (-5.4%), saturated fatty acids (-18.9%), trans-fatty acids (-20%), total sugar (-36.8%) and sodium (-10.7%) intake and a significant increase in fiber intake (+15.5%) after replacing foods, using the MCNE nutrition criteria. Replacing commonly consumed processed foods in the diet with foods that meet the FOP nutrition-labeling criteria set by the MCNE can lead to improvements in energy and nutrient intake in the Mexican adult population.