LONDON—Consumers continue to see health and wellness as an important issue and will pay more for foods that display health benefits on their labels, according to Tate & Lyle’s latest European consumer research.
The survey, conducted in July 2009, polled 1,565 people in Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Spain and Italy about their attitudes toward labeling, ingredients and shopping habits. Research revealed that across Europe, 53 percent of consumers often check nutritional information on-pack, and 57 percent check the ingredient list at the back of a packaging, confirming their interest in labeling to determine if a product is healthy.
The research also revealed at least half of consumers see less fat and sugar as important benefits. Additionally, approximately 80 percent noted they would be prepared to spend more on specific claims such as “improving cardiovascular health” and “helps to control cholesterol.”