CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Overview

Food labelling is a vital component of the food industry that provides consumers with

essential information about the nutritional content, ingredients, and potential health benefits

or risks associated with food products (Kanter et al., 2018). Awareness and interpretation of

food labels can significantly influence consumer choices and overall health outcomes

(Cawley et al., 2015). According to a recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of

Nutrition and Dietetics, food labels can influence consumers’ purchasing decisions, with 62%

of consumers reporting that they use food labels to make informed choices (Neuhouser et al.,

2019).

1.2 Background of the Study

Food labelling is a critical component of the food industry that provides consumers

with essential information about the nutritional content, ingredients, and potential health

benefits or risks associated with food products (Kanter et al., 2018). The importance of food

labeling has been globally recognized, with many countries implementing regulations and

guidelines to ensure that food labels provide accurate and reliable information to consumers.

Evolution of Food Labeling

The concept of food labelling has evolved significantly over the years. In the early days,

food labels primarily provided basic information, such as the name of the product,

ingredients, and price. However, with increasing awareness of the importance of nutrition and

health, food labels have begun to include more detailed information about the nutritional

content of food products.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards Front-of-Pack Nutrition

Labeling (FOPNL), which involves providing simplified nutrition information on the front of

food packaging (Vandevijvere et al., 2019). FOPNL has been shown to be effective in

promoting healthier food choices and reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases

(NCDs) such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Global Initiatives in Food Labeling

Several global initiatives have been aimed at promoting standardized food labeling

practices. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed guidelines for

the implementation of FOPNL, whereas the Codex Alimentarius Commission has established

international standards for food labeling.

Food Labeling in Ghana

In Ghana, food labeling is regulated by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), which

is responsible for ensuring that food labels comply with national and international standards.

Despite these regulations, there is still a need to educate consumers about the importance of

food labeling and how to use food labels to make informed choices.

Importance of Food Labeling for Young Learners

Food labeling is particularly important for young learners who develop eating habits

and preferences. By understanding food labels, young learners can make informed choices

about the foods they eat, which can help them maintain a healthy diet and reduce the risk of
developing NCDs. World Health Organisation. (2018). Noncommunicable diseases.

Retrieved from (link unavailable)

1.3 Statement of the Problem

Despite the importance of food labeling in promoting healthier food choices and

reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), many consumers, particularly

young learners, may not fully understand or utilize this information when making food

choices. This lack of understanding can lead to poor dietary habits and an increased risk of

NCDs.

Lack of Awareness and Understanding of Food Labels

Research has shown that many consumers, including young learners, have limited

awareness and understanding of food labels (Krukowski et al. 2018). This lack of awareness

and understanding can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of food label information,

which can ultimately influence food choice.

Inadequate Nutrition Knowledge

Young learners may also lack adequate nutritional knowledge, which can make it

difficult for them to make informed food choices (Lichtenstein et al., 2014). Without a basic

understanding of nutrition principles, young learners may not be able to effectively use food

labels to make healthy choices.

Influence of Food Marketing on Food Choices

The food industry spends billions of dollars in marketing and advertising, which can

influence food choices and contribute to the development of unhealthy eating habits (Harris
et al. 2018). Young learners may be particularly vulnerable to the influence of food

marketing, making it difficult for them to make informed food choices.

Limited Access to Healthy Food Options

In some communities, access to healthy food options may be limited, which can

make it difficult for young learners to make healthy food choices (Walker et al., 2010). This

can be particularly challenging in low-income communities, where access to grocery stores

and other sources of healthy food may be limited.

Consequences of Poor Food Choices

Poor food choices can have serious consequences for young learners, including an

increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and other NCDs (World Health Organization 2018). These

health problems can have long-term consequences, including a reduced quality of life and

increased healthcare costs.

1.4 Significance of the Study

Contribution to Existing Knowledge

This study contributes to existing knowledge on food labeling and its impact on

consumer behavior, particularly among young learners. The findings of this study will

provide insights into the awareness and understanding of food labels among seven basic

learners and how this influences their food choices and health outcomes.

Informing Policy and Practice

The findings of this study will inform policies and practices in the areas of food

labeling, nutrition education, and public health. The results will provide evidence-based
recommendations for policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals to promote

healthier food choices and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among

young learners.

Improving Nutrition Education

This study highlights the importance of nutrition education for promoting healthier

food choices among young learners. The study's findings will inform the development of

effective nutrition education programs that consider the needs and preferences of young

learners.

Reducing the Risk of NCDs

The findings of this study will contribute to reducing the risk of NCDs among young

learners. By promoting healthier food choices and improving nutrition knowledge, this study

aims to reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other NCDs among young learners.

Enhancing Food Labeling Practices

This study will provide insights into the effectiveness of current food labeling

practices and identify areas for improvement. The study's findings will inform the

development of more effective food labeling practices that promote healthier food choices

among young learners.

Supporting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This study supports the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),

particularly Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) and Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). By promoting
healthier food choices and reducing the risk of NCDs, this study aims to contribute to the

achievement of these SDGs.

1.5 Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework for this study integrates key theories and models from the

fields of consumer behavior, nutrition education, and public health to explore the awareness

and understanding of food labels among Basic Seven learners at Atonkor M/A JHS, and how

this awareness influences their food choices and health outcomes.

1. Behavioural Theories:

o Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB): This theory posits that an individual's

behavior is influenced by their attitude towards the behavior, subjective

norms, and perceived behavioural control (Ajzen, 1991). In this context, the

TPB explains how young learners' attitudes toward food labeling, societal

influences (e.g., peers, family), and their confidence in interpreting labels may

impact their food choices.

o Social Cognitive Theory (SCT): Bandura's SCT emphasizes the role of

observational learning, self-efficacy, and environmental factors in shaping

behavior. Here, it supports understanding how young learners' exposure to

nutrition education, food marketing, and access to healthy food options affect

their use of food labels.

2. Cognitive and Educational Theories:

o Constructivist Learning Theory: This theory highlights how individuals

construct knowledge through experiences and interactions (Piaget, 1950).

Applying this, young learners’ understanding of food labels may be enhanced

through interactive and experiential nutrition education programs.

skills such as reading, interpreting, and applying health information. It

provides a lens to assess the role of food labeling in fostering nutrition

knowledge and informed decision-making among learners.

3. Public Health Models:

o Ecological Model of Health Behavior: This model considers multiple levels

of influence on health behavior, including individual, interpersonal,

organizational, community, and policy factors (McLeroy et al., 1988). It aligns

with the study's focus on how broader systems (e.g., school policies, food

regulations, and marketing) interact with individual learners' behaviour’s

regarding food labeling.

Conceptual Linkages:

 Independent Variable: Awareness and understanding of food labels.

 Mediating Variables: Nutritional knowledge, interpretation skills, and external

influences (e.g., marketing, education, peers).

 Dependent Variable: Food choices and health outcomes (e.g., risk of NCDs, dietary

habits).

1.6 Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study was to explore the awareness and understanding of food

labels among seven basic learners at Atonkor M/A JHS, and how this influences their food

choices and health outcomes.

The research objectives of this study are as follows:

1. To assess the awareness and understanding of food labels among seven basic learners at

Atonkor M/A JHS.

2. To evaluate the influence of food labels on food choices among seven basic learners.

3. To analyze the impact of food label awareness and understanding on the health outcomes

of seven basic learners.

1.8 Research Questions

The research questions guiding this study are as follows:

1. What is the level of awareness and understanding of food labels among the seven basic

learners at Atonkor M/A JHS?

2. How do food labels influence the food choices of the seven basic learners?

3. What is the impact of food label awareness and understanding of the health outcomes of

the Basic Seven learners?

1.9 Delimitation of the Study.

The study is delimited to Basic Seven learners at Atonkor M/A JHS. The study focuses

on the awareness and understanding of food labels among this specific population and how

this influences their food choices and health outcomes.

This study has several limitations. First, the study relies on self-reported data, which

may be subject to biases and limitations. Second, the study focuses on a specific population,

which may not be representative of all young learners. Finally, the study's findings may not

be generalizable to other contexts.

1.11 Organization of the Study

This study is organized into five chapters. Chapter one provides an introduction to the

study, including the background, problem statement, purpose, objectives, research questions,

significance, delimitation, and limitations. Chapter two reviews the literature on food labeling

and its impact on consumer behavior. Chapter three presents the methodology used in the

study, including the research design, population, sample, data collection instruments, and data

analysis procedures. Chapter four presents the results of the study, including the findings on

the awareness and understanding of food labels, the influence of food labels on food choices,

and the impact of food label awareness and understanding on health outcomes.