A comprehensive study conducted by NSF, a global leader in food safety and quality, has revealed that only 50% of Belgian consumers believe current food labels provide sufficient information to make informed food choices. The study, which surveyed 1,000 Belgian adults, sheds light on the critical role of food labeling in shaping consumer decisions and promoting public health in Belgium.
According to the study, 73% of Belgian adults read food labels before making a purchase decision, with this figure rising to 83% among 18-34-year-olds. However, the research also found that only 38% of respondents believe current labels adequately address sustainability concerns, highlighting a significant gap in consumer expectations.
Katie Glover, EMEA Manager, Regulatory Affairs and Trading Law at NSF, commented on the findings, stating that “this research underscores a significant gap between consumer expectations and current labeling practices.” She added, “It’s clear that the food industry must take decisive action to enhance transparency and comprehensiveness in food labeling to meet the evolving needs of Belgian consumers.”
The study also revealed that 75% of respondents consider more detailed allergen information the most valuable addition to food labels, followed by comprehensive processing information at 72%. Additionally, 47% of Belgian consumers are willing to pay more for products with comprehensive and transparent labeling, with an average premium of 10-12%.
The growing concerns about sustainability among consumers were also reflected in the study, with 65% of respondents considering environmental impact scores a useful addition to food labeling.
While these gaps present challenges to the food industry, they also offer significant opportunities for innovation, relevance, and growth. As the Belgian food landscape continues to evolve to cater to consumers who are increasingly motivated by personal health concerns and broader environmental considerations, food manufacturers must address this call for greater transparency.
Glover emphasized the need for the industry to take action, stating that “the fact that half of Belgian consumers feel inadequately informed by current food labels is a clear call to action for the industry.” She added, “By prioritizing clarity, standardization, and transparency in food labeling, we can empower consumers to make more informed decisions about their food choices. This not only contributes to better public health outcomes but also fosters a more sustainable food system and builds greater trust between food manufacturers and the Belgian public.”
NSF remains committed to working with the food industry to develop innovative solutions that meet evolving consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. The full whitepaper, offering detailed insights and recommendations, is available on the NSF website.
For more information about food labeling requirements and NSF’s services, visit nsf.org.
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About NSF:
NSF is a global leader in food safety and quality, providing services across the entire supply chain, from farm to fork. With over 75 years of experience, NSF works with food manufacturers, retailers, restaurants, and regulatory agencies to ensure food safety, quality, and sustainability. For more information, visit nsf.org.
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/
