Nutri-Score versus NutriInform research on the perception of nutritional food labelling

In the Laboratory of Consumer Studies at the SPU FEM in Nitra, we conducted quantitative research aimed at comparing two models of nutrition labelling – Nutri-Score and NutriInform. The aim of the research was to identify how Slovak consumers (n=1000) perceive these formats, to what extent they understand them and what impact the presence of these labels has on their purchasing decisions. The research was conducted through an online survey on a representative sample of respondents. We focused not only on how the different models influence the choice of specific foods in different categories, but also on how consumers engage with nutrition information – whether they trust it, whether they find it useful and to what extent it influences their purchasing behaviour. The results showed that nutrition labelling can play an important role in food choice, but the level of understanding and trust varies depending on the visual presentation, clarity and the actual working principle of the labelling. The findings also showed that many consumers are interested in clear, quick-to-understand labelling to help them make quick purchasing decisions, but they also want transparency and the possibility of additional information.  This research has once again confirmed that well-designed and expertly communicated nutrition education can have a direct societal impact – in the form of more informed choices and support for healthier lifestyles. The project is an example of the application of a scientific approach to consumer practice and an important input to the debate on the introduction of nutrition labelling in Slovakia.