In light of efforts to decrease added sugar, the use of nonsugar sweeteners (NSS) in the food supply is increasing. Although there is concern about the health effects of NSS, particularly among children, little is known about parents’ perceptions of NSS as replacements for added sugar and whether NSS front-of-package labels (FOPLs) influence parents’ perceptions and purchasing intentions surrounding products with NSS. The goal of this research was to examine parents’ perceptions of sugar and NSS for their children and understand how parents perceive NSS FOPLs when making selections for their children. Focus group discussions were conducted using a semistructured guide, informed by the health belief model, which included questions about parents’ perceptions of the healthfulness of NSS for children; parents’ understanding and perceptions of NSS FOPLs; and how various NSS FOPL formats would potentially influence parents’ perceptions of product healthfulness. Parents were also shown hypothetical NSS FOPLs and asked for feedback. These focus group discussions were transcribed verbatim and coded independently by 2 coders, after which themes were identified using reflexive thematic analysis. Overarching themes were: parents try to limit their child’s sugar intake and avoid providing products with artificial ingredients; parents had mixed views about the safety and healthfulness of NSS; parents perceived an NSS FOPL favorably, but they do not like the term diet sweeteners; and parents preferred an NSS FOPL that uses visual aids and communicates a recommendation. Despite having mixed perceptions about the safety and healthfulness of NSS for children, parents perceived NSS FOPLs as helpful for making informed beverage choices for their children. Future research examining the effects of NSS FOPLs on parents’ product selections is needed to inform FOPL policies and increase transparency regarding the presence of NSS in products consumed by children.
Published: April 2026
ID #: 383000929
Journal: Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Authors: Vallone N, Taillie LS, Krieger JW, Grilo MF, Patel P, Diaz-Guzman G, Sylvetsky AC
Age Group: Adults and Families
Race/Ethnicity: African American or Black, Asian, Latino(a) or Hispanic, Multi-racial/ethnic, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, White
Focus Area: Food Marketing
Keywords: Front-of-package labeling, Sugar-sweetened beverages
Resource Type: Journal Article
State: National
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