Evaluation of Food Label Reading Awareness, Healthy and Halal Nutrition Attitudes in Adults

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between food label reading awareness and healthy and halal nutrition attitudes in adults aged 18-65. Method: It was conducted digitally between March-August 2024 with 403 volunteers aged 18-65. The individuals' sociodemographic characteristics, food label reading habits, and healthy and halal nutrition attitudes were investigated. The survey included a total of 53 questions. Individuals participating in the study were randomly selected. Results: 212 individuals under the age of 30and 191 individuals over the age of 30 participated in the study. Male individuals constituted 41.9% of the participants and female individuals constituted 58.1%. 193 married and 210 single individuals participated in the study. 32.3% of the participants have an income level of 10,000TL and below, 18.9% 10,000-25,000TL, 34.5% 25,000-50,000TL and 14.4% 50,000TL and above. A significant difference was found in label reading awareness, healthy and halal nutrition status according to age, marital status and income level. Accordingly, individuals over the age of 30, singles and individuals with high income levels were found to have higher food label reading awareness and healthy and halal nutrition attitudes. A positive correlation was obtained between label reading awareness, healthy nutrition attitude and halal nutrition attitude. Conclusion: Food label reading awareness is a tool that strengthens both healthy and halal nutrition attitudes of individuals, allowing them to make conscious food choices and thus adopt a lifestyle that is compatible with both their health goals and religious beliefs.