Knowledge of Recommended Calorie Intake and Influence of Calories on Food Selection Among Canadians

Abstract

Objective: To examine knowledge of recommended daily calorie intake, use of calorie information, and sociodemographic correlates between knowledge and use.

Design: Population-based, random digit-dialed phone surveys.

Participants: Canadian adults (n = 1,543) surveyed between October and December, 2012.

Main outcome measures: Knowledge of recommended calorie intake and use of calorie information when purchasing food.

Analysis: Regression models, adjusting for sociodemographics and diet-related measures.

Results: Overall, 24% of participants correctly stated their recommended daily calorie intake; the majority (63%) underestimated it, whereas few (4%) overestimated it. Females, younger participants, those with a higher income and more education, and those who consumed fruits and vegetables at least 5 times daily were significantly more likely to state recommended intake correctly. Most respondents (82%) reported considering calories when selecting foods. Respondents considered calories more often if they were female, had a higher income and more education, perceived themselves to be overweight, were actively trying to control their weight, reported a healthier diet, or consumed fruits and vegetables at least 5 times daily.

Conclusions and implications: Although most Canadians reported using calorie information to guide their food choices, few knew their daily recommended calorie intake. To promote healthy weights, policy initiatives, including education regarding daily calorie intake and changes to the Nutrition Facts table, may help consumers make better choices about food.

Keywords: diet; food habits; health behavior; nutrition; nutrition knowledge; overweight.