HealthLink: What Consumers Look for on Food Labels
Canadians now have access to more nutrition information on more food products since Health Canada announced mandatory nutrition labelling a year ago. A recent U.S. report in the November 2003 issue of Food Technology highlights consumer opinion on food labels, new products, convenience, health, food safety and terms such as "fresh" and "pure". Two-thirds of those surveyed said that it is important for their stores to carry foods and beverages that are naturally high in vitamins and minerals. It is clear that macronutrient avoidance and nutritional enhancement also play an important role in food selection.
With 71% of food shoppers trying to reduce the risk of developing a health condition and 68% trying to treat some problem, consumers look for positive health benefits and claims. Sales of "lean", "lite" and "less of" products are rebounding with weight-loss/dieting as the major driver, while sales of "reduced fat content" and "fat free" brands are in decline. Sixty-three percent of consumers used fortified foods in 2003, up from 50% in 2000; and 58% used functional foods, up from 31%. Taste continues to top the list of factors important to consumers when trying a new product, with fresh and cooking convenience also high on the list.
Consumer Tip:
To learn how you can use the new Nutrition Facts table to make healthy food choices, take the virtual shopping tour. Healthy Eating is In Store for You(TM) is brought to you by Dietitians of Canada and the Canadian Diabetes Association along with 9 supporting organizations.
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Healthy Eating is In Store for You(TM)
What Consumers Want and Don't Want on Food and Beverage Labels
Convenient Nutrition Helping Canadians Strike a Balance
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