Consumer understanding and use of food labels in Ghana: A review of the evidence

Abstract

Background Creating a supportive environment can help manage the growing burden of obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases (DR-NCDs) through informed diet choices. Food labelling is a typical approach that helps consumers make informed choices when shopping. However, studies on the understanding and use of food labels by consumers in Ghana are limited. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first review to assess the consumer understanding and use of food labels in Ghana. Methods This scoping review was conducted up to the end of December 2021 and included both published and unpublished literature on consumer understanding and use of food labels in Ghana. Results Eight (8) studies were identified. All, except two, assessed self-reported understanding and use of food labels. Although self-reported understanding of food labels was high, actual understanding through objective measurements was low. The study sheds light on the drivers and challenges of the consumer's use of labels, both of which tend to relate to practical issues (examples include health or religious issues in the former case and time constraints in the latter). Conclusions The Government of Ghana and the food industry need to explore new ways to improve consumer understanding of food labels and how they are used.