title: The association between nutrition facts label utilization and comprehension among Latinos in two east Los Angeles neighborhoods.
abstract: 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 use and comprehension of the Nutrition Facts label and to identify correlates among Latinos in East Los Angeles, CA.
  
  
  METHODS
  Cross-sectional interviewer-administered survey using computer-assisted personal interview software, conducted in either English or Spanish in the participant's home.
  
  
  METHODS
  Eligibility criteria were: living in a household within the block clusters identified, being age 18 years or older, speaking English or Spanish, identifying as Latino and as the household's main food purchaser and preparer. Analyses were based on 269 eligible respondents.
  
  
  METHODS
  χ(2) test and multivariate logistic regression analysis assessed the associations among the main outcomes and demographics. Multiple imputations 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 use and comprehension of the Nutrition Facts label to directly improve diet, particularly among males, older Latinos, and those with less than a high school education.
authors: Mienah Z
authors: MZ
authors: Sharif
authors: Shemra
authors: S
authors: Rizzo
authors: Michael L
authors: ML
authors: Prelip
authors: Deborah C
authors: DC
authors: Glik
authors: Thomas R
authors: TR
authors: Belin
authors: Brent A
authors: BA
authors: Langellier
authors: Alice A
authors: AA
authors: Kuo
authors: Jeremiah R
authors: JR
authors: Garza
authors: Alexander N
authors: AN
authors: Ortega
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D032882:Comprehension; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D005515:Food Labeling; D015438:Health Behavior; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006630:Hispanic or Latino; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D015141:Los Angeles; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Health disparities; Latinos; Newest Vital Sign; Nutrition Facts label comprehension; Nutrition Facts label utilization