Labeling products accurately

I am writing this letter in favorable response to your article, which was written on Sept. 25, 2014, “Misleading food ads manipulate consumers.” As I am interested in eating healthy food, your article was quite interesting. I always check the ingredients and nutritional facts of food or how many harmful ingredients are contained.

Also, I definitely agree with the idea the headline presents for a few reasons. We watch numerous food commercials every day. I sincerely believe that we might be manipulated easily by how food companies convey their intentions.

I would like to firmly suggest that additives should be indicated accurately. You referred to gluten-free products, MSG, casein and additive-free sausages, which were the hottest issue for a fairly long time. These advertisements stated misleading facts unceasingly. It is my opinion that ingredients and additives should be written clearly so that consumers will find it easier to choose products without misunderstanding.

Moreover, the effects of chemical additives need to be specified. Most companies do not show the influence of chemical additives. Consumers are not certain whether these chemical substances are beneficial to health or not. Companies consistently alter advertisements for more advantageous profits. Decisions depend on commercials, so if companies are unsure of the effects of additives, they have to cease their indiscriminate commercials.

We are all consumers, therefore, we want to purchase better products. It would be extremely beneficial if companies promoted advantages instead of emphasizing harmful misinformation. It can sometimes lead people to misunderstand.

Choi Da-yeon Resident in Seoul