Nutrition Facts

Definition

Nutrition Facts are the labels found on packaged food products that provide essential information about the nutritional content of the food, helping consumers make informed choices about their diet.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Nutrition Facts are standardized labels mandated by regulatory agencies that outline the nutritional profile of a food product, including macronutrients, micronutrients, caloric content, and percentage of daily values based on recommended dietary guidelines. These labels aim to inform consumers about the nutritional makeup of food items to aid in meeting dietary needs and minimize health risks.

Benefits

• Helps consumers understand the nutritional value of food products.
• Assists in managing calorie intake and maintaining a balanced diet.
• Enables comparison of similar products to make healthier choices.
• Provides information on nutrient intakes that are essential for health.
• Helps identify allergens or ingredients to avoid for those with dietary restrictions.

Examples

• Nutrition Facts labels on cereal boxes.
• Nutrition Facts on canned soups.
• Nutrition Facts labels on frozen meals.
• Nutrition Facts on snack packages.

Additional Information

• Importance: Nutrition Facts labels are crucial for maintaining dietary transparency and allow consumers to make choices that align with health goals and nutritional requirements. They are especially important for individuals with specific dietary needs or conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.

Related Terms

• Calories

References

• Understanding Food Nutrition Labels - Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label - Food and Drug Administration (FDA)