The ABC’s of Ecological and Nutrition Labels. The Impact of Label Theme and Complexity on the Environmental Footprint of Online Grocery Choices

Current food production and consumption patterns pose serious threats to our global environment. The goal of the current research is investigate whether presence specific informational cues, i.e., ecological labels nutrition labels, can improve environmental impact choices. Two online experiments were carried out in which young adults asked select products a grocery shop setting, indicate quantities (in grams) for hypothetical one-person meal. In first experiment (N = 142), we varied theme (sustainability vs. control) alongside products. displayed summarized product score (i.e., products’ actual nutri-score), but this was either presented as nutritional or that product. second 250), again label well level complexity, namely interpretative simple) reductive detailed). While results revealed no suggest with sustainability influence compose more sustainable meal less meat, lower carbon blue water footprint. labels’ complexity did not different eating outcomes. conclusion, while these point potential use theme, it important note consistently replicate across studies analyses should therefore be interpreted caution. A possible explanation effect eco-themed might they trigger pro-environmental objectives during decision-making, prime people consider their