KNOWING LABELING: INTERPRETATION AND ELABORATION OF LABELS

Food labeling is an essential tool for health promotion and disease prevention, as it provides information that guides safe and conscious food choices. However, studies indicate that a large portion of consumers experience difficulties interpreting labels, which compromises their understanding of nutrients, allergens, and product composition. In addition, recent changes in Brazilian legislation have intensified the adaptation challenges faced by small agro-industries, which often lack technical or financial support. The objective of this project is to develop educational actions aimed at reading, interpreting, understanding, and creating food labels, promoting the training of consumers, students, and local producers, and contributing to the strengthening of food security and the competitiveness of regional agro-industries. The extension project “Saber Rotulagem” (Labeling Knowledge) is conducted in an interdisciplinary manner by faculty and students from the Nutrition, Food Technology, and Agribusiness programs. The strategies include creating a study group, conducting theoretical and practical courses and workshops, offering lectures for the community, developing educational materials, and disseminating content through digital media. The interventions prioritize participatory methodologies and integration with partner institutions, such as the Municipal Inspection Service, EMATER, and the Sanitary Surveillance Service.
Currently, about 30 undergraduate and graduate students participate in the project, which has already carried out more than ten extension activities. Workshops in elementary and high schools have reached over 200 students, and lectures for consumers have involved approximately 300 participants.
Activity analysis indicates an increase in participants’ interest and understanding of how to use label information in daily life, with reports of greater attention to front-of-pack nutritional labeling and ultraprocessed ingredients. In agro-industries, progress was observed in packaging compliance and a greater search for technical information. Interinstitutional partnerships have enhanced the reach of the actions and are becoming a local support network for promoting correct and accessible labeling. The results support evidence that educational strategies strengthen understanding of food labeling and promote healthier food choices, in line with public policies such as the Brazilian Dietary Guidelines and the National Food and Nutrition Security Plan. The “Saber Rotulagem” project has generated positive impacts on students’ civic education and consumer awareness, reaffirming the role of public universities as agents of social transformation and contributing to health promotion and sustainable regional development.