Knowledge of Recommended Calorie Intake and Influence of Calories on Food Selection Among Canadians.

OBJECTIVE

To examine knowledge of recommended daily calorie intake, use of calorie information, and sociodemographic correlates between knowledge and use.

DESIGN

Population-based, random digit-dialed phone surveys.

PARTICIPANTS

Canadian adults (n = 1,543) surveyed between October and December, 2012.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Knowledge of recommended calorie intake and use of calorie information when purchasing food.

ANALYSIS

Regression models, adjusting for sociodemographics and diet-related measures.

RESULTS

Overall, 24% of participants correctly stated their recommended daily calorie intake; the majority (63%) underestimated it, whereas few (4%) overestimated it. Females, younger participants, those with a higher income and more education, and those who consumed fruits and vegetables at least 5 times daily were significantly more likely to state recommended intake correctly. Most respondents (82%) reported considering calories when selecting foods. Respondents considered calories more often if they were female, had a higher income and more education, perceived themselves to be overweight, were actively trying to control their weight, reported a healthier diet, or consumed fruits and vegetables at least 5 times daily.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Although most Canadians reported using calorie information to guide their food choices, few knew their daily recommended calorie intake. To promote healthy weights, policy initiatives, including education regarding daily calorie intake and changes to the Nutrition Facts table, may help consumers make better choices about food.