Perception of Sugar Content in Food Labels among Supermarket Consumers in Chennai City � A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to assess the knowledge on sugar content in food labels among the super market users in Chennai city. Material and Methods: A study was designed as a descriptive cross-sectional study which was conducted among a sampled population of supermarket consumers in Chennai city. Chennai city was divided into 3 zones based on the parliamentary assembly constituencies and from each zone two supermarkets were randomly selected. Data was collected using a closed ended questionnaire. Data collected was tabulated and analyzed using SPSS software package version 16. Results: Majority (71%) were not aware of the rules guiding the display of contents in the food products which they purchased. 46.5% of the participants were more interested in the carbohydrate and protein content of the food products while only 13.2% were interested in the sugar content. About 65% were aware of the positive association between excessive sugar consumption of sugar and incidence of various diseases. Mere 51% of the study participants expressed their interest to know more information regarding the risk benefit of sugar consumption. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the majority of the supermarket consumers in Chennai city were not aware of the display of contents in their purchased products, including its sugar content. Though majority of them were aware of the association between sugar consumption and disease, they did not perceive sugar in the purchased food products as a potential risk factor.