Do food labels shape food choices? Insights from Medical Students of a medical college in western India

Abstract

Background: Food labels are a simple yet powerful tool to guide healthier food choices. While awareness of labels is increasing, their consistent use remains limited, particularly among young adults who are at risk of adopting unhealthy dietary behaviours that contribute to non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Objectives: This study aimed to (1) assess awareness regarding nutrition/food labels among medical students and (2) examine the impact of this awareness on their food and snack choices.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 172 MBBS students from a university medical college in Western India, selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a pre-tested, validated questionnaire covering label awareness, usage practices, and snacking behaviour. Descriptive statistics and proportions were calculated using IBM SPSS 25. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.

Results: Awareness of basic label components such as expiry date (100%), vegetarian/non-vegetarian logo (100%), and FSSAI mark (92%) was high. However, awareness of specialized logos like fortified food (49%) and Jaivik Bharat (23%) was limited. While 75% reported that reading labels influenced their food choices, only 17% regularly read them. Key barriers included lack of time (59%), reliance on brand trust (60%), and difficulty understanding labels (8%). Snacking was guided mainly by taste (66%) and brand (76%), with minimal influence from celebrity endorsements (11%).

Conclusion: Although medical students demonstrated high awareness of food labels, their practical use was inconsistent. Strengthening label literacy through education, clearer labelling standards, and supportive public health initiatives is essential to bridge this knowledge–practice gap and reduce diet-related NCD risks.