Innovation for Healthy Eating: Front-of-Package Labeling as a Behavioral Change Tool in Jalisco, Mexico
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55965/setp.5.09.a2Abstract
Context. The rise in non-communicable diseases in Mexico, partly due to the consumption of energy-dense foods, has led to public policies modifying eating habits. Among them, front-of-package warning labeling (FOP) stands out as a low cognitive-cost strategy aligned with nudge theory and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG3) of the 2030 Agenda.
Problem. There is uncertainty about the effectiveness of the front-of-package warning label (FOP) in reducing unhealthy food consumption, especially in regions like Jalisco. Moreover, few empirical evaluations assess its economic impact on consumer behavior.
Purpose. To estimate the effect of front-of-package labeling on quarterly spending by urban households in Jalisco on energy-dense foods from 2016 to 2022.
Methodology. A quasi-experimental design with the “difference-in-differences” method was used through STATA19 software, based on National Household Income and Expenditure Survey (NHICS) data for 2016, 2020, and 2022. Urban (treatment) and rural (control) households were compared regarding their spending on twelve energy-dense products, according to NOM-051.
Theoretical and practical findings. FOP warning labeling effectively reduced spending on 10 of 12 evaluated products. However, the effect was null or adverse for sugary drinks and salty crackers. Theoretically, the visual nudge approach was validated as a public policy tool, though limited for culturally embedded foods.
Originality. This study adopts a multidisciplinary perspective integrating behavioral economics, public nutrition, and policy, promoting innovation for sustainable development. It supports SDG3 by identifying where labeling works or fails and suggests evidence-based policy refinements.
Conclusions and limitations. Labeling is useful but insufficient alone. It should be reinforced by fiscal measures (e.g., taxes on sugary drinks) and more accessible visual designs. This study is limited to Jalisco and the early FOP warning labeling phase, which constrains its generalizability. Broader studies in other states and later policy phases are advised.
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