EFEKTIVITAS LABEL NUTRISI DI BAGIAN DEPAN KEMASAN TERHADAP PERILAKU KONSUMEN DAN PENCEGAHAN PENYAKIT TIDAK MENULAR DI ASIA: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of noncommunicable diseases in Asia is driven by high consumption of processed foods. Front-of-package nutrition labeling is a strategy to encourage healthier food choices, but its effectiveness in Asia has not been comprehensively assessed. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nutrition labels in influencing consumer understanding, preferences, and behavior regarding unhealthy foods in Asia. A systematic literature review from PubMed Central®, Scopus, and SAGE (2019–2025) was conducted. A total of 17 articles met the inclusion criteria after identification based on the PRISMA guidelines. Results: Interpretive labels (warnings, traffic lights/TLL, and Nutri-Score) were significantly more effective than numerical labels. Warning labels reduced the purchase intention of sugary drinks by up to 20%, while TLL encouraged healthier choices without increasing costs. Consumer support for nutrition labels was high (>85%), but understanding and effectiveness were influenced by nutrition literacy, socioeconomic context, and policy nature (mandatory vs. voluntary). Industry compliance with voluntary nutrition labels remains low (e.g., only 10% of new products in Thailand). Conclusion: Nutrition labeling is an effective and publicly supported policy tool for preventing noncommunicable diseases in Asia. Successful implementation requires mandatory policies, interpretive labeling systems, nutrition literacy education, and strict industry oversight.