The awareness of the nutrition labeling of 82 food producers and 668 government officials was assessed and compared, from May to June in 1994, to that of consumers. Compared to 82.4% of cosumers, 48.1% of producers and 47.8% of officials answered that nutrition labeling is necessary. 48% of producers expected a modest food price rise, but 70% thought food sales would not be affected with nutrition labeling. While being worried about the regulatory difficulties and the increased work load given the inadequate implementation of the current food labeling system due to insufficient personnel, 50.2% of officials wanted the new nutrition labeling system to be introduced within 1~2 years. Contrary to the general dissatisfaction with the system and the lack of confidence in it on the part of consumers, producers thought that they currently provide sufficient food information for consumers, and that consumers had much confidence in it. Producers and officials were more found worried about consumers' inadequate understanding and inactive use of the system in contrast to the widespread and welcome support on the part of consumers. But it was fully agreed by all that education and awareness is crucial for the successful implementation of nutrition labeling system.

Consumer awareness of current food labeling system and new nutrition labeling system which the government considers to adopt widely was assessed, from May to June in 1994, for 423 adults living in Seoul. Being highly conscious of food safety, they thought the current food label did not provide sufficient information. Dissatisfaction with the current system was shown higher in the female, young, or unmarried strata. The need for nutrition labeling system was widely recognized by 82% of total respondents regardless of sex, level of education, monthly income, and marital status. Although some expressed worries about proper management of the system, most of the respondents answered that the system would benefit them after all. In this connection, 59% of the respondents showed willingness to accept a price increase to be entailed by nutrition labeling. Nutrition informations that, they thought, should be covered were: calorie>minerals>cholesterol>protein>vitamins>fat>sodium. Additional labeling informations they called for were nutrient contents>RDA percentage>specific statement on reinforced or eliminated nutrients.