The provision of trans fat information and its interaction with consumer knowledge

Abstract

The first significant change to the Nutrition Facts panel since its inception is the addition of trans fat information. This research examines whether this modification may have a significant effect on consumers' disease risk perceptions and on the perceived importance of trans fat information. The results of an experiment that varied exposure to induced trans fat knowledge, trans fat levels, and Nutrition Facts Panel formats indicate that without consumer education efforts that enhance consumers' knowledge and understanding of trans fat, effects of the new labeling regulations on consumers may be limited. Copyright 2006 by The American Council on Consumer Interests.