Menu Labeling Perception and Health Behaviors Among Immigrant and US Born Minority Populations: Assessment in Two Los Angeles Public Markets (Salud Pública de México)

The author analyzed menu labeling perception and food choices/health behaviors in two public markets in East and South Los Angeles, areas with primarily low-income minority populations that are disproportionately affected by rates of overweight and obesity. The study showed reading labels when shopping was one of the main predictors associated with menu labeling influence. Longer-stayed immigrants were more likely to afford "balanced meals," but they were also more likely to eat in fast food restaurants and less likely to engage into moderate/intense physical activity.

• Arturo Vargas Bustamante, PhD, MPP, MA