Consumers' knowledge, attitude and practice about information on food labels

Results showed that the mean scores of the respondents in the knowledge test were 7.9 (fair), 7.0 (moderate) for attitude test, and 63.2 (fair) in the practice. As to the knowledge about food label, highest scores were on the importance of food labels and lowest scores were on truthfulness of food labels and role of the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) as a food regulatory agency. Regarding usefulness of food labels, most consumers reported that they used the information of foods stated on labels as nutrition guide. In the assessment of attitude, favorable attitudes were shown towards inclusion of vitamin and mineral content on the food label. Unfavorable or skeptical attitudes were ascribed toward the truthfulness and accuracy of food labels with Vitamin A claims. According to the consumers surveys the kind of nutrient printed on food labels should be limited to nutrients associated with diseases like fat, sugar, salt and cholesterol. With regards to practice, the top five items of information most read by the respondents on food labels were: price, expiry date, brand, taste/flavor and nutrition facts. Regarding nutrition facts on label, less than half of the respondents said that they were "sometimes" or "never" aware of these information stated in food labels. Those who were aware commented that the food package label is the chief source of nutrient information, while doctors and nutritionists were the least consulted about the matter. Also, information mostly sought in nutrition facts labels were: Vitamin C, salt, fat, calcium and Vitamin A content. More than half (55%) said they buy foods with nutrition labels. Only 20% were aware of the "Sangkap Pinoy" seal, 51% were "sometimes" and 29% are "never" aware. For those who are aware, their chief information source were TV commercials or programs and a small portion (10%) said from doctors and nutritionists. Less than 30 percent (28%) actually bought foods with "Sangkap Pinoy" seal. Results of analysis of vaiance on KAP scores with selected consumers characteristics revealed no relationship on consumer KAP with age, household size or health status. However, some significant relationship was observed with the other variables. Knowledge was related to civil status. Attitude was related to office type (government or private employee), education, nature of occupation and food budget. Practice was related to office type and sex. Corelation analyses revealed significant positive relationship between knowledge and attitude, attitude and practice and knowledge and practice