Qualitative exploration of the reasons for not using nutritional warnings after policy implementation in Uruguay.

This article examines the self-reported use of nutritional warnings—front-of-package (FOP) labels indicating excessive content of nutrients linked to non-communicable diseases—in Uruguay following their policy implementation. Using an online survey of 858 Uruguayan adults, the study found that while 63% reported being influenced by these warnings in their food purchase decisions, 37% were not, citing reasons such as lack of interest, attitudes, limited self-efficacy in interpreting the warnings, cognitive biases, habitual behaviors, and structural barriers including limited availability and higher cost of healthier alternatives. The findings highlight the need for targeted communication campaigns to increase perceived health risks and policy enforcement, alongside broader measures addressing affordability and availability of healthy foods, to enhance the effectiveness of nutritional warnings in promoting healthier eating.