| To supplement Health Canada's review of Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating (CFGHE), this study conducted a qualitative investigation of the perceptions and understanding of CFGHE among consumers with two years or less of post-secondary education. In total, 53 male and female participants were recruited from Guelph, Ontario using convenience sampling. Seven focus groups were formed with 5--9 participants and led by a professional moderator. The tape-recorded group interviews were transcribed and analyzed using 'accurate description' analysis. Participants' responses were summarized with little interpretation, and common ideas were identified. The study found that consumers perceived CFGHE to lack practical relevance, appeal and the specific information necessary for complete understanding of the Food Guide's dietary advice. Participants also felt that CFGHE cannot stand up to the growing popularity of alternative opinions on nutrition and health. Many participants were unable to understand key messages and recommendations in CFGHE and overlooked important concepts. As a result, participants were less likely to consider CFGHE at all when making decisions relating to food. |
