The Role of Processing-Related Labels in Consumer Identification and Choice of Ultra-Processed Foods

Pierrick Gomez ()
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Pierrick Gomez: NEOMA Business School, Chair in Bioeconomy and Sustainable Development

Journal of Consumer Policy, 2025, vol. 48, issue 4, No 3, 444 pages

Abstract: Abstract Currently, the ingredient list is the only labelling information allowing consumers to identify ultra-processed foods objectively. However, little is known about what determines ingredient list use and its potential to guide consumer choice toward less processed foods. Study 1 reveals that subjective ingredient knowledge, cooking skills, preferences for natural foods, and health consciousness predict self-reported ingredient list use. Study 2 finds that ingredient list content (but not length) helps consumers discriminate food products according to their levels of processing but influences purchase intentions only indirectly through perceived processing. Study 3 demonstrates that warning labels have an incremental effect and significantly increase the choice of less processed foods from 39.6% to 62.7% compared to the ingredient list. These findings provide insights for policymakers to enhance consumer awareness of food processing and design effective labelling systems to address the issue of ultra-processed food overconsumption.

Keywords: Front-of-package labelling; Food additives; Ingredient list; Ultra-processed food; Food policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10603-025-09595-0

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