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Identifying Food Labeling Effects on Consumer Behavior

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  • Sebastián Araya
  • Andres Elberg
  • Carlos Noton
  • Daniel Schwartz

Abstract

We take advantage of the gradual implementation of a comprehensive mandatory food labeling regulation introduced in Chile to identify its effects on consumer behavior. Using individual-level scandata from transactions in a big-box supermarket, we estimate a demand model for differentiated products in which a food label indicator captures the warning label effect. We find sizable effects on juices and cereals, but no impact on chocolates & candies and cookies. Our results are consistent with the information disclosure being effective only when information is unexpected. Key words:

Suggested Citation

  • Sebastián Araya & Andres Elberg & Carlos Noton & Daniel Schwartz, 2018. "Identifying Food Labeling Effects on Consumer Behavior," Documentos de Trabajo 339, Centro de Economía Aplicada, Universidad de Chile.
    • Handle: RePEc:edj:ceauch:339
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    Cited by:

    1. Yu Na Lee & Laura Stortz & Mike von Massow & Christopher Kimmerer, 2023. "Impact of ‘‘high in” front‐of‐package nutrition labeling on food choices: Evidence from a grocery shopping experiment," Canadian Journal of Agricultural Economics/Revue canadienne d'agroeconomie, Canadian Agricultural Economics Society/Societe canadienne d'agroeconomie, vol. 71(3-4), pages 277-301, September.

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