Front-of-pack labeling of food products: evolution, characteristics, challenges and prospects

Journal of Social Sciences Vol. VIII, no. 2 (2025), pp. 28 - 45 Fascicle Social Science ISSN 2587-3490 Topic Marketing and Logistics eISSN 2587-3504 Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 https://doi.org/10.52326/jss.utm.2025.8(2).03 UDC 346.544.44:664 FRONT-OF-PACK LABELING OF FOOD PRODUCTS: EVOLUTION, CHARACTERISTICS, CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS Aurica Chirsanova *, ORCID: 0000-0002-1172-9900, Rodica Siminiuc, ORCID: 0000-0003-4257-1840, Vladislav Reşitca, ORCID: 0000-0002-6063-1731, Alexandru Nistiriuc, ORCID: 0000-0003-0709-2393, Ana Chioru, ORCID: 0009-0001-1363-5887 Technical University of Moldova, 168 Stefan cel Mare Blvd., Chisinau, Republic of Moldova * Corresponding author: Aurica Chirsanova, [email protected] Received: 04.20.2025 Accepted: 05.28.2025 Abstract. In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, front-of-pack labeling serves as a crucial tool for "dialogue" between producers and consumers. This mechanism helps to quickly and efficiently identify nutritional characteristics and serves as an effective tool for promoting healthy eating practices through an accessible and universal language. In this context, an exploratory study was conducted by analyzing scientific works on food labeling systems, including their evolution, the characteristics of different labeling typologies, the evaluation methods as well as the challenges and prospects for the development of food labels in the future. Each labeling typology had different attributes that represent an essential tool for supporting consumers in making food choices and in promoting a healthy lifestyle, both at the individual level and in terms of public health. To establish an integrated labeling system for food products, future research should focus on improving the universal applicability of labeled items and environmental sustainability, to make labels more digital and modern in the context of ongoing social and climate change. Keywords: front-of-pack labeling, nutritional labeling, nutritional quality, sustainability, sustainable agri-food systems. Rezumat. În peisajul dinamic al industriei alimentare, etichetarea frontală a ambalajului servește drept un instrument crucial de "dialog" între producători și consumatori. Acest mecanism ajută la identificarea rapidă și eficientă a caracteristicilor nutriționale și servește ca un instrument eficient pentru promovarea unor practici alimentare sănătoase printr-un limbaj accesibil și universal. În acest context, a fost realizat un studiu exploratoriu prin analizarea lucrărilor științifice privind sistemele de etichetare a produselor alimentare, inclusiv a evoluției acestora, a caracteristicilor diferitor tipologii de etichetare, a metodelor de evaluare cât și a provocărilor și perspectivelor de dezvoltare a etichetelor pentru produsele alimentare în viitor. Fiecare tipologie de etichetare a avut atribute diferite ce reprezintă un instrument esențial pentru sprijinirea consumatorilor în a face alegeri alimentare și în A. Chirsanova, R. Siminiuc, V. Reşitca, A. Nistiriuc, A. Chioru 29 Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 promovarea unui stil de viață sănătos, atât la nivel individual, cât și în ceea ce privește sănătatea publică. Pentru a stabili un sistem integrat de etichetare pentru produsele alimentare, cercetările viitoare ar trebui să se orienteze pe îmbunătățirea aplicabilității universale a articolelor etichetate și a durabilității mediului, pentru a face etichetele mai digitale și mai moderne în contextul schimbărilor sociale şi climatice continue. Cuvinte cheie: etichetare frontală, etichetare nutrițională, calitate nutrițională, durabilitate, sisteme agroalimentare durabile. 1. Introduction In recent decades, nutritional labeling has emerged as a crucial tool in promoting public health and combating the global epidemic of diet-related chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases [1]. This increasing significance is reflected not only in public health policies but also in consumer preferences and behaviors, as individuals demand transparency and access to clear and concise nutritional information to make well-informed and evidence-based dietary choices [2]. In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, front-of-package labeling serves as a crucial communication tool between producers and consumers [3]. This mechanism helps in the quick and efficient identification of nutritional characteristics and other relevant attributes of food and serves as an effective tool for promoting healthy eating practices through an accessible and universal language [4]. The variety of labels reflects a wide range of objectives, from providing essential product information, such as organic status, ingredients, nutritional values and potential allergens, to effectively communicating health benefits [5,6]. Within the European Union, correct and detailed food labeling is a fundamental pillar in ensuring consumers' rights to be well-informed about the foods they consume [7]. By establishing strict and harmonized standards at the European level, Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 on food labeling aims to facilitate healthy and informed choices for consumers [8]. This regulation sets out consumer protection standards regarding information on food products, taking into account that these products will be marketed to different categories of consumers with diverse perceptions [9]. Consumers often face challenges in decision-making due to the overwhelming variety of food products available, each promoting different nutritional or health benefits. Front-ofpackage nutritional labels provide a summary of the nutritional profile, facilitating the quick identification of healthier food options [10]. Alongside the frameworks established by government bodies, associations in the food and beverage sector in Europe developed their own initiative, initially known as the "Recommended Daily Amount," which was later renamed the "Reference Intake Label." It is considered a good solution, offering an enhanced perception of the effect of diet on consumers' daily routines [11]. This innovation was implemented in 2006 and marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of nutritional information presentation on packaging. A food product wishing to fall under this label must meet a set of specific nutritional standards, aligned with current public health directives. These rules focus on minimizing saturated fats, sugars, and salt, thereby encouraging producers to offer healthier nutritional alternatives [12]. Recent research highlights the significant influence of the "Reference Intake Label" on consumers' final decisions, enabling them to more clearly distinguish food products that promote a balanced diet [13,15,16]. 30 Front-of-pack labeling of food products: evolution, characteristics, challenges and prospects Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 1.1 Nutritional Labeling – History and Evolution The evolution of labeling has been profoundly influenced by socio-economic, technological, political, and public health changes that have occurred globally. The earliest labeling practices began in the Roman Empire and were limited to marking wine amphorae to indicate their origin [17]. In the modern era, nutritional labeling serves not only as a guide for consumers but also as a public health policy to address nutritional issues on a global scale [18]. Early food labeling practices can be traced back to the Roman Empire, where the origin and quality of food products, such as wine and olive oil, were often indicated through markings on containers. These early labels, engraved on ceramic amphorae, signaled the geographic origin and suggested a level of quality or prestige associated with the region from which the products came. Although these practices did not directly focus on nutritional information as we understand it today, they represent the roots of the concept of traceability and authenticity of food [19]. Throughout the medieval period, concerns about food safety and authenticity continued to evolve. In medieval European cities, regulations concerning the quality of foods, such as bread and meat, were implemented to protect public health. These rules, often set by craft guilds, established production standards and could include inspection and marking of products to ensure compliance. In this context, labeling served more as a quality control mechanism than as an informational tool for consumers [20]. The transition to modernity marked a significant shift in labeling practices and food regulation [21]. In the 17th and 18th centuries, as the food trade became more complex and food products began traveling greater distances, the need for stricter and clearer regulations became evident and necessary [22]. In England, the "Assize of Bread" law of 1266 was one of the first attempts to standardize the quality of a food product by regulating the size and price of bread based on the cost of flour. This law represents an early example of governmental efforts to ensure the quality and accessibility of food for the population [23]. In the 19th century, the first legislations directly addressing labeling began to be adopted in various European countries. In 1860, the United Kingdom passed the Food Purity Act, which focused on combating food adulteration. Later, in 1924, the Food Labeling Act was introduced, establishing clearer and stricter requirements for food labeling. These laws played a crucial role in consumer protection, setting a precedent for the further development of food regulations worldwide [24]. In 1906, the United States passed the "Pure Food and Drug Act." This food regulation marked a crucial moment by prohibiting the sale of adulterated or falsely labeled food and beverages [25]. Another significant moment in the evolution of labeling was the introduction of food labeling laws in Germany during the early decades of the 20th century. These laws aimed to ensure transparency, prevent, and punish food fraud [26]. The approval of these laws imposed specific requirements regarding the listing of ingredients and nutritional values, marking an important step in the evolution of nutritional labeling [6]. The creation of the European Single Market marked a significant step in the economic and commercial integration of the European Union member states, removing trade barriers and facilitating the free movement of goods, including food products [27]. This integration had a profound positive impact on food labeling, requiring the harmonization of regulations to ensure transparency and consumer protection across all member states. The EU Directive A. Chirsanova, R. Siminiuc, V. Reşitca, A. Nistiriuc, A. Chioru 31 Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 on nutritional labeling established common standards for presenting nutritional information on food products. A key milestone in this process was the adoption of Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers [28]. This regulation required food labels to include essential details such as energy value, fat content, saturated fatty acids, carbohydrates, sugars, proteins, and salt. This contributed to a better understanding of the nutritional profile of food products by consumers. The EU's nutritional labeling policy significantly influenced national labeling practices, encouraging member states to adopt and implement EU standards into national legislation. As a result, nutritional information on food labels across the Union became clearer and more effective, facilitating consumer choices and promoting healthy and balanced eating. As a former Soviet republic, the Republic of Moldova began the process of transition and reform in many sectors, including the food sector, after gaining independence in 1991. This transition involved adapting and modernizing legislation and regulations to address new economic and public health challenges. At the same time, it became necessary for Moldova to align with European standards and practices. Integration with the European market and the desire to move closer to the European Union motivated Moldova to adopt and implement European standards in food safety and nutritional labeling [29]. 1.2 Front-of-package labeling systems for food products globally Unhealthy eating is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. On the other hand, humanity is facing a nutritional crisis: approximately three billion people in each of the 193 countries around the world, including the Republic of Moldova, consume foods that threaten their health due to high levels of potassium (salt), trans fats, and sugars [29-31]. The unprecedented availability and accessibility of processed and pre-packaged foods are key factors in obesity, non-communicable diseases, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and even certain types of cancer, all of which are directly or indirectly linked to eating habits and behaviors. At the same time, governments are implementing and periodically revising front-of-package nutritional labels. Figure 1. All countries with front-of-package food labeling systems [34]. 32 Front-of-pack labeling of food products: evolution, characteristics, challenges and prospects Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 These simple, often graphic labels provide at-a-glance information about the nutritional quality on the main display panel of food and beverages, complementing the detailed nutrient declarations on the back of the packaging. An increasing body of evidence suggests that such labels can help consumers understand nutritional quality, encourage the selection and purchase of healthier foods, and promote reformulation by the industry [32]. The application of front-of-package labeling systems globally is shown in Figure 1. Currently, 55 countries from Latin America, the Pacific West, and Europe voluntarily use various types of front-of-package food labeling [33]. A the same time, only in six countries is this system mandatory [14]. It is important to note that the implementation of front-of-package nutritional labels is associated with responses from food manufacturers. These responses depend on the label designs and the types of applications [35]. In addition, front-of-package labels contribute to encouraging product reformulation [36]. However, it is suggested that a mandatory approach be adopted globally, regardless of the label design, as it could have a significantly positive impact on public health [32]. 1.3 Typologies and formats of front-of-package food labeling In the dynamic landscape of the food industry, front-of-package labeling serves as an essential communication tool between producers and consumers [37]. This tool helps in the quick and efficient identification of nutritional characteristics and other relevant attributes of food. Additionally, front-of-package labeling serves as a vehicle for promoting healthier eating practices through an accessible and universal language. The diversity of labels reflects a wide range of objectives, from providing essential product information, such as ingredients, nutritional values, and potential allergens, to effectively communicating health benefits [38]. Several types of front labels indicating the title, the countries where they apply, and the image represented are presented in Table 1. Table 1 Types of front labels for food products Front label name Country where it is applied Example images Source Reference Intake Label UE [39] Nutri-Score France, Belgium Spain, Germany Luxembourg Netherlands [40] A. Chirsanova, R. Siminiuc, V. Reşitca, A. Nistiriuc, A. Chioru 33 Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 Continuation Table 1 Keyhole Sweden Norway Denmark Iceland Lithuania North Macedonia [41] Choices Logo Poland Czech Republic [11] Finnish Heart Symbol Finland [42] Traffic Lights UK [43] Pick the Tick Australia [44] Evolved Nutrition Label (ENL) UE [13] Health Star Rating Australia and New Zealand [45] Daily Intake Guide Australia [46] 34 Front-of-pack labeling of food products: evolution, characteristics, challenges and prospects Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 Continuation Table 1 1.4 Food labeling in the EU In the European Union, correct and detailed food labeling is a fundamental pillar in ensuring consumers' right to be well-informed about the foods they consume. By establishing strict and harmonized standards at the European level, Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 on food labeling aims to facilitate healthy and informed choices by consumers [52]. Alongside the frameworks established by governmental bodies, food and beverage associations in Europe developed their own initiative, initially known as the "Recommended Daily Amount," which was later updated to the name "Reference Intake Label." Implemented in 2006, this innovation marked a pivotal moment in the progress of presenting nutritional Facts-Up-Front USA [47] Smart Choices USA [48] Heart-Check Mark USA [49] NutrInform Battery Italy [50] Warning Signs Chile Uruguay Peru Canada [51] A. Chirsanova, R. Siminiuc, V. Reşitca, A. Nistiriuc, A. Chioru 35 Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 data on packaging. Any food that wishes to fall under the umbrella of this label must meet a set of specific nutritional standards aligned with current public health directives. These rules cover limitations on saturated fats, added sugars, and salt, among others, encouraging manufacturers to provide more nutritionally advantageous options [53]. 1.4.1 Reference Intake Label The Reference Intake Label exerts a notable influence on consumer decisions, allowing them to easily distinguish food products that promote a balanced diet [31]. By explicitly displaying the contribution of each product to the suggested daily intake, consumers gain the ability to choose dietary variations that promote health. The design of the label (Table 1) focuses on a clear and accessible presentation, opting for an intuitive visual arrangement that summarizes data on calorie values and key macronutrients [31]. The foundations of this approach are rooted in the idea of transparency and education, providing consumers with the proper tools to make informed food choices [54]. This type of label plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy lifestyle, serving as a support point for those interested in enhancing the quality of their diet. At the same time, this label highlights the importance of recognizing the value of nutrition in maintaining overall well-being [55]. 1.4.2 Nutri-Score Label Among front-of-package nutritional labeling systems, Nutri-Score has marked a significant progress in public health and nutrition [56]. The Nutri-Score system originated in France, where it was introduced in 2017. This form of labeling is the result of extensive research in the fields of public health and nutrition [10]. After its implementation in France, the demonstrated popularity and effectiveness of the Nutri-Score system led to its adoption and expansion in other European countries. Belgium, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, and Luxembourg are among the countries that have adopted or expressed support for Nutri-Score, either as a voluntary system or through regulatory initiatives [57]. This expansion reflects the recognition of Nutri-Score's impact as a tool for improving public health by promoting healthy eating [58]. The Nutri-Score system serves as a visual guide for consumers, making it easier to quickly identify the nutritional quality of food products through a simple front-label. This system aims to tackle the rise of nutrition-related issues, such as obesity and malnutrition, by promoting healthier food choices [59]. The classification of prepackaged food products in the Nutri-Score system is based on an algorithm that evaluates both the content of nutrients and ingredients with potential negative effects on health (high calories, saturated fatty acids, added sugars, sodium, etc.) as well as those with health benefits (fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes, fibers, proteins). The final score reflects a balance between these factors, classifying products from A to E [60]. The Nutri-Score label uses an intuitive combination of colors and letters to classify foods based on their nutritional quality. The system uses a scale from A (green, indicating the healthiest option) to E (red, indicating the least healthy option), making it easier for consumers to make informed food choices at a glance [61]. The color palette ranges from green (indicating the healthiest options) to red (indicating the options with the lowest nutritional quality), with intermediate categories in yellow, orange, and light red, providing a clear visual gradient to guide consumers in choosing healthier food options [62]. This color scheme facilitates quick recognition and assessment of food products. Each color category is 36 Front-of-pack labeling of food products: evolution, characteristics, challenges and prospects Journal of Social Sciences June, 2025, Vol. 8 associated with a letter, from A (the healthiest) to E (the least healthy). The visual design of Nutri-Score (Table 1) is intended to be as accessible and easy to understand as possible for a wide range of consumers, regardless of their level of nutritional knowledge. The visual impact of the label aids in making informed decisions in a short amount of time, which is particularly valuable in crowded shopping environments [63]. It promotes nutritional transparency and encourages healthy choices through the simple visual scanning of available options. Research shows that Nutri-Score has a significant positive impact on consumer food choices. A study published in Public Health Nutrition found that the presence of the Nutri-Score label on food packaging can prompt consumers to choose healthier options, compared to the absence of a nutritional label or the presence of other types of labeling [64]. This effectiveness is likely due to the intuitive and easy-to-understand design of the system, which facilitates quick comparisons between different food products at the time of purchase. A study conducted in France showed that the presence of Nutri-Score on food packaging increased consumers' selection of foods with a superior nutritional profile [65]. In conclusion, Nutri-Score is a valuable tool in the arsenal of strategies aimed at improving public health through the promotion of healthy eating. However, its continued success depends on ongoing research, adaptation, and implementation efforts that take into account the diversity and complexity of nutritional and dietary needs globally [66]. 1.4.3 "Keyhole" label The "Keyhole" label (Table 1) was created with the goal of guiding consumers towards healthier food choices, emphasizing the identification of products with lower content of fats, sugar, dietary fiber, or salt [67]. This front label was created in 1989 in Sweden by the Nordic Council of Nutrition and Food and has been essential in promoting a balanced diet [68]. The Keyhole symbol has a distinct shape, resembling a stylized key with a hole in the center, which is where the name "Keyhole" comes from, symbolizing the opening to a healthy life [69]. The color can be either black or green, but the dominant color is often green. This color symbolizes the freshness and naturalness of healthy foods [70]. The emblem must be accompanied by the ® symbol, and its structure must comply with the requirements outlined in the "Design manual for the Keyhole logo" [71]. The label generally applies to food products that meet specific nutritional criteria, such as: • limiting sugar; • low fat content; • higher content of dietary fiber and whole grains; • control of potassium (salt) [72]. In conclusion, the Keyhole label stands out by not requiring advanced knowledge in nutrition or high intelligence to be understood. Its simple nutritional labeling system, placed visibly on the front of the packaging, is designed to be accessible and easy for consumers to use when selecting a product. This aspect helps facilitate the process of choosing healthier food products, while promoting quick and efficient understanding of essential nutritional information. 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