Examining the Food Label Reading Habits and Attitudes Towards Healthy Nutrition Among Healthcare Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the food label reading habits of healthcare professionals and their attitudes towards healthy nutrition. Material and methods: 198 healthcare professional were included in the study. Data regarding individuals' demographic characteristics, attitudes towards healthy eating (ASHN) and food label reading habits were obtained via an online form. Results: When the data obtained is examined, the average age of the group is 27.5; It was determined that the average BMI was 23.6 kg/m2. It was determined that the general average of the individuals' ASHN total score was 73.15±10.18 and therefore the group's general attitude towards healthy nutrition was high. When the nutrition food label reading status and ASHN scores were compared, it was determined that the attitude scores towards healthy nutrition of individuals who responded often and always to the habit of reading food labels were higher than those who responded never, rarely or sometimes. It was also found that individuals who had previously received nutrition education had higher ASHN scores compared to those who had not received nutrition education. Conclusion: As a result of the study, it was determined that there was a weak positive relationship between food label reading habits of healthcare professionals and ASHN scores.