Published in the Istanbul Gelisim University Journal of Health Sciences, the study evaluated the food label literacy levels of 403 participants aged between 18 and 64. Findings revealed that only 25% of the participants had previously received nutrition education, and this group performed significantly better in interpreting food labels correctly.
The study also showed that demographic factors such as age, educational level, and marital status were associated with label comprehension. Participants under the age of 35, those with higher education, and single individuals scored higher. Additionally, those who examined labels not only while shopping but also afterward demonstrated better literacy levels.
Participants stated that they paid the most attention to claims such as “trans-fat-free,” “source of fiber,” and “vitamin and mineral content.” However, many had difficulty with interpreting portion sizes, ranking ingredients, and calculating energy values.
The researchers emphasized that simply having access to food labels is not enough—being able to accurately read and interpret them requires educational support. They highlight that initiatives to improve label literacy, particularly for individuals with lower educational backgrounds, hold great importance in terms of public health.
We sincerely congratulate the researchers for their valuable contribution.
📄 Access the full article: https://doi.org/10.38079/igusabder.1645418
