IMPACT OF NUTRITION LABELING ON CONSUMERS' FOOD CHOICES

Abstract

Nutritional labeling is a key communication tool between the food industry and consumers, enabling more conscious food choices and contributing to the promotion of public health. However, its actual impact remains limited by factors such as educational level, income, and clarity of information. This study aims to analyze how nutritional labeling influences Brazilian consumers’ purchasing decisions, considering different socioeconomic profiles and international experiences. It is a bibliographical research with a qualitative approach, based on the analysis of scientific articles, legislations, and institutional reports published between 2003 and 2024. The results indicate that although many consumers report reading food labels, their understanding and practical use of the information remain low, especially among groups with lower food literacy. Simplified front-of-pack labeling models, such as the magnifying glass system adopted by RDC No. 429/2020, have been shown to improve the identification of critical nutrients and to encourage healthier food choices. It is concluded that nutritional labeling, when combined with educational policies and clear visual communication, has the potential to reduce information asymmetry and to contribute to the prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases.