Abstract

Introduction The aim was to describe changes on the reading, knowledge and interpretation of the nutritional labeling of foods among consumers of a supermarket in Valparaiso, before and after the entry into force of Law 20,606, during June and December of 2016. Material and Methods Descriptive, non-experimental study, with a quantitative-qualitative approach. A convenience sample of 200 consumers who attended the same supermarket was surveyed using a questionnaire. The survey mode was an interview before and after the entry into force of the Law. The questionnaire included questions aimed to evaluate the knowledge and interpretation of the labels "HIGH IN". Responses were categorized as: i) It contains a great amount of the nutrient/is high in the nutrient; ii) The amount represents a risk for health; iii) It contains more than necessary/above the allowed level; iv) It has such nutrient added; v) I don't know/don't understand; vi) Other responses. Changes were assessed taking into account difference between proportions and confidence interval was set to 95%. Results There was no significant increase in the reading of the nutritional labeling (11%). Respecting the knowledge and interpretation of the labels, knowledge increased significantly regarding the label "HIGH IN CALORIES" in i and iii; regarding "HIGH IN SODIUM" in i, ii and v; regarding "HIGH IN SUGARS" in ii and iii; and regarding "HIGH IN SATURATED FATS" in i. Responses showed that 62% stated they have stopped consuming a certain food because of the number of stamps that the label contained and 34% indicated the need for more education on the new labeling. Conclusions There were changes in the consumers' understanding of labels indicating "HIGH IN" of the new labeling system; reading of the labels and food choice were also modified. Consumers indicated that food and nutritional education is required. At the health policy level, qualitative studies and indicators are required to assess the understanding and interpretation of the seals in the medium and long term and food and nutrition education.