Knowledge and misconceptions about the food label among women with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

ABSTRACT

Women on restricted diets are reportedly among the most frequent readers of nutrition information on food labels. However, the specific label information that women with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) comprehend and use has not been determined. The purpose of this study was to explore the attitude toward, use, and knowledge of information on the food label among rural women with NIDDM age 40 to 60 years. Focus groups and in-depth interviews were conducted. Participants reported that they referred to the nutrition information on the label when grocery shopping and preferred the newly revised format. Yet, comprehension of the terms and percentages on the label was poor (eg, the majority of participants could not explain the difference between total carbohydrate and sugars). Misconceptions also were noted about nutrients listed on the label and the percent daily value. Further education is needed to help people with NIDDM understand and apply the nutrition information on food labels to meet their individual needs.