Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the perception on nutrition labeling of the processed foods among elementary school teachers in Busan. The survey was conducted from November 1 to November 30, 2008 by questionnaires and data which were analyzed by SPSS program. The results are summarized as follows. Ninety five point seven percent of the male teachers and 98.2% of the female teachers recognized the nutrition labeling (NL). The necessity of a NL system and comprehension of NL were higher in the female group than the male group. NL was trusted by 22.9% of male teachers and 19.7% of female teachers. The main reason for checking NL of the teachers was for food safety. For the most important NL items at purchasing the food, the teachers replied 'trans fatty acid' and 'cholesterol'. Five point seven percent of male teachers and 17.0% of female teachers were educated for NL. Seventy two point nine percent of males and 91.0% of females recognized the necessity of NL teaching. It is necessary to prepare education programs for both teachers and students about accurate recognition of NL.

• Keywords: nutrition labeling; perception; elementary school teachers