Knowledge and attitude toward the legal food labeling of food producers in Ayutthaya province

Abstract

This research is a cross-sectional survey study aimed to study knowledge and attitude toward the legal food labeling of food producers in Ayutthaya province. The sample consisted of 182 licensed food producers in Ayutthaya province. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The study results found that most respondents had a bachelor's degree or equivalent 69.23 % have an average of 5.36 years of experience in preparing food labels. 52.20% had received training on food labeling. 91.21% knew that food labeling must be in accordance with the law. 23.60% knew by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) staffs. Prepare food labels as agreed by the team/department responsible, 35.71%. The food production premises have never been inspected by officials in the case of incorrect food labeling, 74.18%. never been prosecuted for incorrect food labeling, 86.26%. Knowledge in preparing legal food labels has an average score of 14.02 points. Attitude towards legal food labeling had an average score of 4.24 points and the practices of food producers in preparing food labels had an average score of 3.99 points. The variables that significantly explain the legal food labeling at the 0.05 level are: Knowledge in preparing legal food labels, being checked by officers in case of incorrect food labels and attitudes towards legal food labeling. The variables together explained 11.8% (R² = 0.118). However, the regulations and legal criteria are a problem for the food labeling because there are many of them, difficult to understand and changes frequently. Therefore, knowledge and positive attitudes towards legal food labeling will help Ayutthaya food producers to prepare more accurate food labels.