Product labels and advertising: are consumers protected or misled?

Main Article Content

Paolo Fantozzi
Silvio Garattini

Keywords

product labels, product advertising, beverages, additives, dietetic products, food supplements and integrators, food intolerances, carcinogens, mediterranean and vegan diets, ultra-processed foods (UPF), novel food, food from insect, cultivated meat

Abstract

In this paper, we propose solutions to issues related to food and product labels, as well as advertising, which are often overlooked or ignored. To illustrate these concerns, we will examine specific categories such as beverages, additives, dietary foods, food supplements, and medical device integrators in detail. Additionally, we will discuss particular eating habits, including Mediterranean and vegan diets, ultraprocessed food (UPF), along with emerging food types like insect-based products and cultivated meat. Since labels and product advertisements can unintentionally or intentionally mislead consumers, they pose potential risks to consumer health and well-being. We evaluate various challenges associated with labelling and advertising, offering practical recommendations and potential solutions.

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