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Reading Food Labels

Food labels list ingredients from most to least, plus nutrition facts like energy, sugar, salt and fat. They help you choose healthy foods and spot allergens.

๐Ÿ’ก Fun fact

Ingredients with the biggest amount are listed first.

All about Reading Food Labels

Food labels list the ingredients from the largest amount to the smallest, and they show nutrition information such as energy, fat, saturated fat, sugar, salt and fibre. Allergens are also highlighted, so people with allergies can avoid harmful ingredients.

Comparing labels helps you choose healthier options. Look at the amounts per 100 grams, check the sugar and salt levels and see whether the product has a high percentage of wholegrains or fruit.

Reading labels helps you make healthy choices.

Look for words like sugar and salt in the ingredients, since they can be hidden under different names. Compare products to find those with less sugar and salt and more fibre.

๐ŸŽฎ Try it yourself!

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Real-life uses of Reading Food Labels

  • Checking the sugar content of cereal
  • Finding out whether a product contains nuts
  • Comparing two brands of tomato sauce

Frequently asked questions about Reading Food Labels

What does "best before" mean?

The date until which the food will be at its best quality. It is different from a use-by date, which is about safety.

Why are ingredients listed in order?

Ingredients are listed from the largest amount to the smallest, so the first items make up most of the product.

What are E numbers?

Codes used in Europe for food additives, such as colours and preservatives, which have been checked for safety.