title: Knowledge and practices of using food label information among adolescents attending schools in Kolkata, India.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To assess knowledge and use of label information among adolescents.
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescents (N = 316) from 6 schools selected randomly using cluster sampling. A pre-coded questionnaire was used to assess frequently consumed packaged foods, whether label information was read, knowledge of symbols, and usefulness of nutrition information display. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Although 88% of adolescents read food labels, many read only date of manufacture (79%), expiration (74%) or best used before dates (65%). Fewer adolescents read ingredients (50%) and nutrition information (20%). Their knowledge about quality symbols was low. Many of them (over 60%) recognized the symbols but had no knowledge of what they indicated. About 66% believed that nutrition information on labels was too complex to understand.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There is a need to provide education on different aspects of label information to promote label use. The effectiveness of alternative methods of nutrition information display should also be investigated.
authors.affiliation: Extension and Training Division, National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India.
authors.forename: Snehasree
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Saha
authors.forename: Sudershan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: R Vemula
authors.forename: Vishnu Vardhana Rao
authors.initials: VV
authors.lastname: Mendu
authors.forename: SubbaRao M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Gavaravarapu
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D005515:Food Labeling; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D008297:Male; D009753:Nutritive Value; D010290:Parents; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
keywords: adolescents; food labels; nutrition