Ab. Marietta et al., Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of college students regarding the 1990Nutrition Labeling Education Act food labels, J AM DIET A, 99(4), 1999, pp. 445-449
Objectives This study examined the influence of 1990 Nutrition Labeling and
Education Act food labels on college students. The purposes of the study w
ere to examine knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of college students rega
rding labels and relationships among these factors, and whether educational
experience with labels was associated with label-reading knowledge, attitu
des, and behaviors.
Design A descriptive, nonexperimental research design was used. Data were g
athered using a survey designed for the study.
Subjects The study surveyed 208 undergraduate students enrolled in general
education classes at a midwestern university.
Statistical analysis Descriptive statistics analyzed knowledge, attitudes,
and behaviors of college students regarding food labels. The Student t test
and chi(2) analysis evaluated specific measures of behavior. Pearson corre
lation coefficients and multiple regression analysis examined relationships
among variables and identified factors associated with label use.
Results Students' mean knowledge score was 48%. Knowledge store was positiv
ely correlated with attitudes toward labels (r=.14, P=.04) and use of label
s (r=.87, P=.0001). Previous education in reading labels was associated wit
h higher knowledge scores (P=.04). Ninety-five percent of participants perc
eived the label to be useful, but many distrusted nutrition claims. Seventy
percent looked at the Nutrition Facts label when purchasing a product for
the first time. The single best predictor of general label use was a positi
ve attitude toward labels (P<.001), followed by being a woman (P<.01).
Conclusions The 1990 National Labeling and Education Act food label has inf
luenced college students. Labeling education efforts are associated with gr
eater knowledge about labels, more favorable attitudes toward them, and inc
reased label use in making food choices. Special attention should be direct
ed toward explaining terms and phrases on labels and the guidelines that en
sure truthfulness of nutrition claims. College students need to understand
their need for numerous nutrients instead of merely focusing on the fat and
caloric content of foods.