Traffic-Light Nutrition Label in Ecuador: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Consumer Behaviour, Dietary Patterns, and Sociodemographic Associations

Background Ecuador introduced the traffic-light nutrition label (TNL) to address the rising burden of diet-related non-communicable diseases linked to increasing ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption. The TNL aims to provide simplified nutritional information to consumers, yet its effectiveness across diverse population groups remains unclear. Previous research suggests that TNL awareness and use may vary based on factors such as education, income, and geographic location, highlighting the need to explore how these factors are associated with dietary choices and health outcomes in different regions of Ecuador. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in three Ecuadorian cantons—Quito, Ibarra, and Riobamba—targeting adults to assess TNL use, dietary habits, and health conditions. Data collection involved structured interviews, food frequency questionnaires, and anthropometric measurements. Associations between TNL use and dietary and health variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests with survey and post-stratification weights to enhance representativeness. Results In Quito, TNL use was correlated with lower UPF intake and higher fruit and vegetable consumption. Regional differences were evident, with Riobamba showing lower UPF intake primarily among those unaware of the TNL, and Ibarra exhibiting no significant association between TNL use and UPF consumption. TNL awareness was lower among elderly and less-educated groups across all cantons, and among rural and low-income groups in Ibarra and Riobamba, who nevertheless reported concerning UPF consumption and limited fruit and vegetable intake. Conclusions TNL use in Ecuador varies by sociodemographic factors and is associated with healthier dietary patterns in some populations. However, disparities in awareness and usage highlight the need for improved label visibility and targeted public health strategies to enhance engagement among vulnerable groups. Addressing structural barriers to nutritious food access is crucial to maximizing the label's public health impact. These findings provide valuable insights for policy adjustments and nutrition education efforts in Ecuador and similar contexts.