Front-of-Package Labeling for Nutrition

This trial aims to determine which type of front-of-package labeling best helps people in Indonesia make healthier food choices. It compares two label types: nutrient warning labels, which highlight high levels of sugar, salt, or fat, and Nutri-Level labels, which summarize a product's overall nutrition. The goal is to identify which label more effectively helps consumers spot unhealthy products. The trial seeks participants in Indonesia who can read and write in Indonesian and have purchased processed foods in the last month. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the opportunity to contribute to important research that could enhance public health in Indonesia.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that front-of-package labels, such as the Nutrient Warning Label and Nutri-Level, are safe because they don't alter the product physically. These labels are placed on food packaging to provide information. Studies have found that they can help people make healthier food choices by highlighting high levels of sugar, salt, and fat. Other countries have used this method to promote better eating habits. Reports of negative effects from these labels do not exist, as they only provide information. Consequently, people generally accept them well.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about this trial because it's exploring two innovative labeling strategies to help consumers make healthier food choices. The Nutrient Warning Label stands out by directly alerting consumers when products are high in sugar, salt, or fat, aiming to prompt healthier decisions quickly. On the other hand, the Nutri-Level label provides a summary score of the overall nutritional quality, making it easier for shoppers to compare products at a glance. These approaches are different from current nutrition labels, which often provide detailed but less intuitive information, and researchers hope these new methods will lead to more informed and healthier consumer choices.

This trial will compare two types of front-of-package labeling systems: the Nutrient Warning Label and the Nutri-Level label. Research has shown that front-of-package labels can help people make healthier choices by clearly indicating products high in sugar, salt, and fat. Participants in this trial may view food products displaying Nutrient Warning Labels, which studies have shown make people less likely to choose items high in these nutrients. One study demonstrated that these labels led to purchasing foods with fewer calories, sugar, and saturated fat. Meanwhile, participants may also view products with Nutri-Level labels, similar to systems used in other countries, which have had mixed results. While they can guide people to healthier options, their effectiveness varies. Overall, warning labels appear more effective in helping people identify and avoid less healthy products.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹