Randomized trial evaluating the effectiveness of within versus across-category front-of-package lower-calorie labelling on food demand.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Several front-of-pack (FOP) labels identify healthier options by comparing foods within product categories. Alternative approaches label healthier options by comparing across categories. Which approach is superior remains unknown. The objective of this study was to test the effect of a within-category versus across-category FOP lower calorie label on 1) the percentage of labeled products purchased, 2) several measures of calories purchased (total, per dollar and per serving), and 3) total spending. We also tested the moderating effects of hunger and mood on purchasing patterns.

Methods

Using an online grocery store, we conducted a 3 × 3 crossover trial involving actual purchases with 146 participants randomly exposed to: 1) no labeling control; 2) within-category

SUBMITTER: Finkelstein EA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7068974 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature