Evaluating nutrient profiles of packaged foods in Peru pre- and post-introduction of front-of-pack warning labels, 2018–2021

This study assessed differences in the nutritional labeling content of processed foods based on Peruvian regulations before and during the two implementation stages of Law 30021. A cross-sectional analysis of 1137 food labels collected between 2018 and 2021 was conducted, comparing nutritional information across three periods: pre-implementation (2018), first stage (2019–2020), and second stage (2021). Nutrient content variations were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test, while changes in front-of-package labeling were assessed with the McNemar test. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25, with significance set at p<0.05. The study found significant reductions in key nutrients over time, with total decreases of 3.4% in calories (p=0.001), 14% in sodium (p=0.001), 36.7% in sugar (p=0.001), and 9.2% in saturated fats (p=0.028). The introduction of front-of-package warning labels contributed to a 10–30% decline in high sodium, high sugar, and high saturated fat warnings in solid foods, except for trans-fat labeling, which remained unchanged (p=0.874). Among liquid ultra-processed foods, sugar content showed a notable 49% reduction during the initial implementation phase (p=0.01). These findings suggest that the implementation of Law 30021 in Peru has led to a decline in critical nutrient levels in processed foods, particularly in calories and saturated fats. Front-of-package warning labels play a role in improving nutritional profiles, potentially promoting healthier food choices. However, further research is necessary to assess long-term consumer behavior and health impacts.