Grocery Buyers Face Widespread Misleading Claims on Processed Food Labels
Public health experts warn that deceptive packaging tactics are leading consumers to mistake ultra-processed junk food for nutritious options.
By Foodie Pundit Newsroom - Published - Updated - Section: Grocery Cpg

Key points
- Front of package buzzwords often distract from high levels of sugar, salt, and fat listed on the back panel.
- The health halo effect causes consumers to assume a product is wholesome based on a single functional claim.
- Manipulated serving sizes continue to understate actual calorie and nutrient intake for typical consumers.
- Health experts recommend relying on the mandatory ingredient list rather than promotional marketing terms.
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Sources and methodology
Reported from the public datasets below.
- U.S. Census Bureau - Monthly Retail Trade, food services
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Consumer Price Index, food away from home
- Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) - Food services and drinking places series
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Consumer Price Index, food away from home
- Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) - Food services and drinking places series
- U.S. Census Bureau - Monthly Retail Trade, food services
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