In the previous post, we focussed on the barriers of label use. We assessed the crucial factors that posit challenges on the use of a label. In this post, we will now look at what promotes label usage.
Prior nutrition knowledge-Nutrition knowledge is regarded as one of the most critical factors necessary in the facilitation of healthy dietary approaches. In addition, the associated beliefs and attitudes towards food and health coincide with label usage. Consumers who are well-versed with nutrition information are more likely to utilize the label. They are aware that the nutritional information on the label is useful as it informs the nutrition contents of a package they may wish to purchase. These individuals may also understand the label and can interpret it.
Media-Whereas not much healthy eating is advocated by media platforms, these tools can influence the use of nutrition labels if they encourage their use. If media sources and social network platforms endorse healthy eating practises such as the reading of nutrition labels, there is high likelihood for customers using them. Moreover, consumers are likely to be inspired by their role models, whom they observe from media networks.
Dietary restrictions or health conditions -Persons with particular dietary restrictions such as allergies, food intolerances are likely to prioritize label use. For example, if someone is required to lower their fat intake, they will use the label to obtain this information when intending to purchase food items.
Peer influence-When you have peers who reinforce healthy dietary priorities i.e. using the nutrition label, you are highly likely to emulate them. As such, if those around you use the nutrition label, they may influence you too, and you may find yourself adopting the practise of using labels in making purchasing decisions.