Front-of-package product labels: influences of varying nutritional food labels on parental decisions

Abstract

Purpose

This research aims to examine the effects of varying front-of-package (FOP) nutrition information type on parents' food product choices for children.

Design/methodology/approach

A 3(FOP nutrition information: nutrient specific system vs food group information system vs summary indicator system) × 3(Perceived healthiness of the product: high vs moderate vs low) mixed-design experiment and content analysis were conducted to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Findings suggest that summary indicator systems were effective in positively impacting parents' choices for healthier food options, however not as effective as food group information systems – which includes specific nutrient content claims complementing less familiar health nutrient symbols.

Originality/value

Implications for marketers, consumer welfare advocates and product brand managers are provided.

Citation

Bui, M., D. Kaltcheva, V., Patino, A. and C. Leventhal, R. (2013), "Front-of-package product labels: influences of varying nutritional food labels on parental decisions", Journal of Product & Brand Management, Vol. 22 No. 5/6, pp. 352-361. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPBM-05-2013-0298