Abstract

VALVERDE-AGUILAR, Mariana; ESPADIN-ALEMAN, Carlo C; TORRES- RAMOS, Nancy E  and  LIRIA-DOMINGUEZ, Reyna. Preferred nutrition facts labeling: Octagon versus GDA semaphore in markets in Lima, Peru. Acta méd. Peru [online]. 2018, vol.35, n.3, pp.145-152. ISSN 1728-5917.

Objective: To determine preferences when choosing two designs for nutrition facts labeling in food products (octagon vs. GDA semaphore). Material and methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study that was performed in clients form markets in some Lima districts (Chorrillos, Breña, La Victoria, and La Molina). A previously validated questionnaire was used, which included 4 questions based in pictures showing options for nutrition facts labeling: Which one of these products do you consider is the healthiest?", "Why did you choose this one?", "Which one of these labels do you consider is the easiest to understand?", and "Which one of the two labels do you like the most?". Data were presented as percentages and medians (interquartile ranges), and differences between groups were assessed using Fisher's exact test (categorical data). Results: Ninety-three persons were interviewed, and the GDA semaphore was chosen as the healthiest nutrition facts labeling (74.3%), and it also was the most liked option. However, the octagon was deemed as the easiest to understand (58.4%). Most users considered the GDA semaphore as the healthiest choice, since "it shows more green signs on the label", which may confound the purpose of this nutritional warning system, minimizing the impact of the red and/or yellow symbols because they may be less frequently present. Conclusions: The interviewed persons mentioned that the octagon was easier to read and understand; the green symbols on the GDA semaphore may influence in considering the product as a healthier choice.

Keywords : Nutritional labeling; Health food; Nutritive value.

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