Signposting
The Agency has agreed its recommendation for a consistent approach to front of pack labelling that will provide 'at a glance' information on labels about the nutritional content of foods.
To underpin these recommendations, a series of consumer research projects have been undertaken to explore people's understanding of and preferences for a range of signposting concepts. Signposting aims to make it easier for people to choose a healthy diet.
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Independent signpost evaluation study
At its meeting on 9 March 2006, the Agency's Board agreed that it would be important to assess independently the impact of its recommended approach to front-of-pack signpost labelling, and other front of pack key nutrient schemes that are in use, on consumer behaviour.
Supporters of FSA's approach to signpost labelling
A large number of consumer, health, medical and other groups support the FSA's recommended approach to signpost labelling. The signposting supporters range from Netmums to the Royal College of Physicians.
Retailers, manufacturers, importers/suppliers and service providers that use signpost labelling
The majority of large retailers, many manufacturers and a number of service providers now use the Food Standards Agency's recommended approach to front-of-pack signpost labelling.
Breakfast cereal research
In January 2007, the Agency agreed the nutritional criteria for its traffic light labelling approach. This covered six out of the seven food categories where consumers said they would find front-of-pack labels most useful.
Timeline of signposting scheme development
To ensure that the signposting scheme is practical and workable, the Agency undertook extensive work with stakeholders throughout its development.
Signpost labelling research
The Agency has carried out a programme of research in its work to develop the front of pack signpost labelling scheme. The main findings of the research are summarised here.
Board agrees principles for front of pack labelling
The Food Standards Agency Board has agreed its recommendation for a consistent approach to front of pack labelling that will help make it easier for people to choose a healthier diet.
Technical guidance
This is Issue 2 of the technical guidance for the Agency's front-of-pack nutritional signpost labelling approach.
Front of label tracking survey
As part of a regular tracking survey that the Food Standards Agency carries out, we recently did a small piece of additional consumer research to provide a snapshot of how shoppers are currently interpreting signpost labelling.
Signposting policy review
In March 2006, following extensive published consumer research and consultation with stakeholders, the Agency recommended voluntary use of a front-of-pack 'traffic light' labelling approach in the UK based on four core principles.