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Understanding Food Labels and Nutrition Facts
Aug 30, 2024
Lecture Notes: Food Labels
Overview
Food labels provide a wealth of information, not just nutrition facts.
Important to understand various claims, emblems, and stars on food containers.
The goal is to help consumers make informed choices.
Required Information on Food Labels
Name of the product
Ingredients
: Listed in descending order by weight.
Nutrition Facts Panel
: Mandatory.
Nutrition Facts Panel
Must include information on:
Calories
Total fat, saturated fat, trans fat
Cholesterol
Sodium
Total carbohydrate, dietary fiber, sugars
Protein
Vitamins (A, C) and minerals (calcium, iron)
Law requires standardized serving sizes for easier comparison.
Legislation Impact
1990 Law
: Standardized serving sizes and definitions for terms like "low fat."
Daily Values (DVs)
: General reference levels based on a 2,000 calorie diet, useful for comparing nutritional content.
New vs. Old Nutrition Facts Panels
New panel includes added sugars, vitamin D, and potassium.
Not mandatory to list vitamins A and C.
Designed for better consumer visibility and understanding.
Tips for Navigating Food Labels
Compare foods using the standardized serving sizes and DVs.
Look out for nutrients to limit (saturated fats, sodium) and those to increase (fiber, calcium).
Exceptions & Additional Information
Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish may not have labels but information must be available.
Small businesses might be exempt due to financial burden.
Front of Label Packaging
Emblems and stars are often not well-regulated or consistent.
Manufacturers may highlight beneficial aspects and downplay negatives.
Consumers should rely on the full Nutrition Facts Panel for accurate information.
Misleading Labeling Practices
Baby foods
: Ingredients like water and apple might be more prevalent than advertised main ingredients.
Misleading terms
:
"Multigrain" vs. "whole grain"
"Wheat bread" vs. "whole wheat"
"Low cholesterol" in non-animal products
"Gluten-free" in naturally gluten-free items
Tips for Consumers
Be skeptical of catchphrases and trendy terms used by food companies.
Learn to recognize true health indicators on labels.
Conclusion
Stay informed and question labels; understand nutrient information for better health choices.
Next Topic
: Different types of label claims (to be covered in Part Three).
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