Background
The Nutrition Facts label can facilitate healthy dietary practices. There is a dearth of research on Latinos’ utilization and comprehension of the Nutrition Facts label.
Objective
To measure Nutrition Facts label use and comprehension and to identify their correlates among Latinos in East Los Angeles.
Design
Cross-sectional interviewer-administered survey using a computer assisted personal interview (CAPI) software conducted in either English or Spanish in the participant’s home.
Participants/Setting
Eligibility criteria were: living in a household within the block clusters identified, being age 18 or over, speaking English or Spanish, identifying as Latino and as the household’s main food purchaser and preparer. Analyses were based on 269 eligible respondents.
Statistical analyses performed
Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis assessed the association between the main outcomes and demographics. Multiple imputation addressed missing data.
Results
Sixty percent reported using the label; only 13% showed adequate comprehension of the label. Utilization was associated with being female, speaking Spanish and being below the poverty line. Comprehension was associated with younger age, not being married, and higher education. Utilization was not associated with comprehension.
Conclusions
Latinos who are using the Nutrition Facts label are not correctly interpreting the available information. Targeted education is needed to improve Nutrition Facts label use and comprehension, to directly improve diet, particularly among males, older Latinos, and those with less than a high school education.