Towards Sustainable Food Choices: Analyzing the Knowledge–Practice Gap in Food Labeling among University-Educated Consumers in Alexandria, Egypt

Abstract

This study investigates the food labeling knowledge–practice gap to provide actionable insights for advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) among university-educated consumers in urban Egypt. A cross-sectional survey of 306 adult shoppers revealed a pronounced discrepancy: while 51.6% demonstrated good nutritional knowledge, only 26.5% consistently applied it through label use. Key barriers included small font size (66.7%) and complex terminology (19.9%). Knowledge significantly correlated with practice (r = 0.531, p < 0.001), with higher engagement among females, younger adults, and graduates. These results highlight the critical need for policy-driven solutions—such as interpretive front-of-pack labeling and targeted literacy programs—to effectively bridge this gap, thereby promoting sustainable consumer choices and supporting national public health objectives.