Half of Belgian Consumers Say Food Labels Lack Key Information, Study Finds
Survey Highlights Growing Demand for Transparency in Food Labeling
A new study has found that half of Belgian consumers do not believe current food labels provide enough information to make informed purchasing decisions. The research, conducted by NSF, surveyed 1,000 Belgian adults and examined the role of food labeling in consumer decision-making and public health.
The findings indicate that while food labels influence purchasing behavior, many consumers feel they lack clarity and key details. According to the study, 73% of Belgian adults read food labels before buying products, a figure that rises to 83% among those aged 18 to 34. However, only 50% believe that labels provide sufficient information, and 38% feel they adequately address sustainability concerns.
Most Commonly Read Food Label Information
- Expiration dates: 63% (higher among over-55s at 77% vs. 44% of 18-34-year-olds).
- Ingredient lists: 45% (slightly higher among over-55s at 48% vs. 41% of younger adults).
- Nutritional information: 38%.
- Country of origin: 32%.
- Allergen warnings: 23% (more important to younger consumers at 29% vs. 18% of over-55s).
- Health claims: 22% (higher among younger adults at 28% vs. 20% of over-55s).
Katie Glover, EMEA Manager of Regulatory Affairs and Trading Law at NSF, said the results highlight a disconnect between consumer expectations and current industry practices.
“This research underscores the need for greater transparency and comprehensiveness in food labeling,” Glover said. “The food industry must take action to ensure labels meet the evolving needs of Belgian consumers.”
The study also found that allergen and processing information are among the top concerns for consumers. Three-quarters of respondents (75%) said they would like more detailed allergen information on labels, while 72% want clearer details on food processing. Sustainability is another key issue, with 65% of consumers considering environmental impact scores a useful addition to food packaging.
Consumer Preferences for Additional Labeling Information
- 75% want comprehensive allergen information.
- 72% want detailed food processing information.
- 65% want an environmental impact score.
- 63% want ethical sourcing information.
- 59% want scannable QR codes for extra information.
- Younger adults (18-34) favor environmental impact scores (77%), while over-55s prioritize allergen information (75%).
The report also suggests that clearer labeling could influence purchasing behavior. Nearly half (47%) of respondents said they would be willing to pay more for products with comprehensive and transparent labeling, with an average price increase of 10-12%.
Glover said the findings present both challenges and opportunities for the food industry.
“The fact that half of Belgian consumers feel inadequately informed by current labels is a clear call to action,” she said. “By prioritizing clarity, standardization, and transparency, the industry can help consumers make better-informed choices while building trust and supporting public health.”
The full whitepaper, which provides further insights and recommendations, is available here.