Effectiveness of numeric energy menu labelling and alternative formats and/or content: A rapid evidence review update.

Abstract

This rapid evidence review is an update of a 2016 rapid review commissioned by NSW Health on the effectiveness of numeric energy menu labelling and potential alternative formats and/or content. Compared to the 2016 rapid evidence review, there was a larger number of systematic reviews published as well as studies from real world settings. Overall, findings were mixed, reflecting the diversity of contexts and outcomes in real world settings. However, the updated review found increased evidence for a positive impact of numeric energy menu labelling on ‘energy/item selected, ordered, purchased’, and generally positive outcomes in real world settings. The evidence for alternate menu labelling formats and/or content, in population subgroups, and in children, adolescents and/or their parents, was either inconsistent or limited in terms of the number of reviews and individual studies. A number of gaps in the available evidence were identified.