Misleading nutrition claims on cracker packages prior to and following implementation of the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990.

OBJECTIVES

This study compared patterns in selected health claims on snack cracker packaging and fat content prior to and following enforcement of the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990 (NLEA).

METHODS

Through observations at supermarkets in 1991 and 1995, the prevalence on packages of health claims that consumers associate with heart disease prevention was evaluated. The fat content of each product also was recorded. Criteria for potentially misleading claims were developed.

RESULTS

Analysis of both cross-sectional data and products that were available in both years showed that fat content, as well as the number of products containing target claims, had significantly decreased by 1995. The prevalence of potentially misleading claims also declined significantly, from 77% in 1991 to 49% in 1995.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the data regarding the changes from 1991 to 1995 are encouraging, the prevalence of potentially misleading health claims for this food category continues to be high.