Providing consumers with usable nutrition information requires an effective labeling format. The objective of this study, which was conducted in a supermarket setting, was to determine whether consumers could, without previous instruction, make equally effective nutrition decisions using a graphic format based on nutrient density as when using the current labeling format. For comparison with other studies, a demographic, nutrition knowledge and nutrition labeling data base was collected. The questionnaire completed by each participating consumer included items regarding demographic data and shopping preferences, and questions evaluating nutrition knowledge for comparison as a data base with other studies. It also appraised the ability of the shopper to utilize two nutrition labeling formats in making nutrition decisions. Another questionnaire, completed by a researcher, assessed race, body type and build, and time taken by each participant to complete the nutrition decision questions. Six supermarkets were selected from one large Utah chain as sites for the survey. The nutrient density format produced the greatest percentage of correct responses. The difference was particularly evident when the data were analyzed for overall total correct responses. Participants who were high school graduates or had family incomes between $4,000 - $7,999 made more correct responses when utilizing the nutrient density format than when confronted with the other format. The nutrient density presentation also took less time for participants to complete. The graphical nutrient density format evaluated in the study is more effective than the current labeling format in assisting consumers to make valid nutritional decisions.