Study: Colorful graphics can benefit food labels

It’s no surprise that loud colors and eye-catching designs can bring attention on the fashion runways. When it comes to choosing one food product over another, often the same rules hold true, according to a recent study. The type of food labels placed on different nutrients can affect whether or not a customer chooses it.

A new literature review published in the journal Nutrition Reviews revealed that the more colorful and graphic the nutrition information put on labels is, the more positively users will respond. Specifically, consumers can make more informed decisions and are more likely to understand the posted nutritional facts.

Researchers at RTI International found that when labels incorporated text and color to indicate “high” or “low” levels of nutrients, they were easier for consumers to interpret than those that used only numbers – like grams per serving.

“As standards for nutrition front-of-package and shelf-labeling systems are considered, it is important to know what is most effective in conveying scientifically accurate and useful information to consumers,” Dr. James Hersey, lead author of the study said in a press release.

For better or worse, food labels will impact consumers

Not all food labels are appreciated or wanted. As reported by the Seattle Times, a legislative initiative requiring food companies to label products containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is set to be filed Thursday at Washington’s Secretary of State office.

California defeated a similar proposal last fall, when big and small businesses faced off against one another. Larger companies claimed that labeling would raise food prices and hurt farmers. Proponents of the measure, though, argued that by labeling which products had GMOs, consumers would benefit.

For businesses that want to ensure their products are designed in a way that captures the attention of shoppers, investing in a Primera LX900 color label printer will be advantageous. That way, companies can rest assured that labels for natural foods are unique and customized.