Scoping review of evidence on front-of-pack warning labels and nutrition and health variables in Peru

Front-of-pack labeling (FOPL) was implemented in Peru as a national prevention strategy, but little is known about its evaluation, impact, or effectiveness in nutrition and health. This scoping review shows the evidence on front-of-pack warning labels and nutrition and health variables in Peru.

The search was conducted (September 2024 and June 2025) through electronic databases (MEDLINE, SciELO, CAB abstracts, FSTA, Scopus) and gray literature (VHL Regional Portal, ProQuest) on any FOPL study (any study design and setting) in Peru, complemented by a hand search of local theses.

In total, 287 records were identified and 55 studies were included (15 peer-reviewed and 40 theses). Most studies were cross-sectional surveys among adults in Lima on FOPL awareness, attitudes, knowledge, purchase intention, and food consumption. A majority of studies reporting on attitudes (n = 20/24, 83%) and awareness (n = 10/13, 77%) found that most agreed that the policy is important and recognized it. Half of the studies reporting on knowledge and purchase intentions found that participants had a clear understanding of FOPL and used it to inform purchasing. Half of the studies that reported on dietary consumption (mostly theses) found that participants reported no change in FOPL product consumption.

This review generally found high FOPL awareness and perceptions. Half of the studies showed a strong understanding and use of FOPL for purchasing decisions, and reported no change in the consumption of FOPL products in adults from Lima. More studies with stronger designs are needed to better understand the impact of FOPL on health outcomes.