Nutrition labeling and value size pricing at fast-food restaurants: A consumer perspective

Purpose. This pilot study examined nutrition-related attitudes that may affect food choices at fast-food restaurants, including consumer attitudes toward nutrition labeling of fast foods and elimination of value size pricing. Methods. A convenience sample of 79 fast-food restaurant patrons aged 16 and above (78.5% white, 55% female, mean age 41.2 [17.1]) selected meals from fast-food restaurant menus that varied as to whether nutrition information was provided and value pricing included and computed a survey and interview on nutrition-related attitudes. Results. Only 57.9% of participants rated nutrition as important when buying fast food. Almost two thirds (62 %) supported a law requiring nutrition labeling on restaurant menus. One third (34 %) supported a law requiring restaurants to offer lower prices on smaller instead of bigger-sized portions. Conclusion. This convenience sample of fast-food patrons supported nutrition labels on menus. More research is needed with larger samples on whether point-of-purchase nutrition labeling at fast-food restaurants raises perceived importance of nutrition when eating out.