Preferred information strategies for food allergic consumers. A study in Germany, Greece, and The Netherlands

Information provided on food packaging is currently the most important method enabling food allergic consumers to eliminate allergens from their diet. This study aimed to identify the preferences of food allergic consumers regarding different information provision scenarios. Respondents (N = 287) filled out a web-based questionnaire on their preferences regarding a food label, an in-store booklet, and an ICT-solution. ICT methods will not replace effective food labelling, but may be used to supplement information provided by labels. Recommendations for information delivery to food allergic patients in the form of labels and booklets, as well as personalised (novel ICT) approaches, are provided.

Research highlights
► Food allergy information delivery to consumers must be improved.
► Effective ingredient labelling on packaging is the most preferred strategy.
► Improvements (e.g. increased font size or standardised information format) are needed.
► EU and international legislation should reflect consumer preferences for labelling.
► Personalised information about allergens, delivered using ICT technology was rated important.