HOW TO READ A FOOD LABEL

 

Sample Label for Macaroni & Cheese

 

 

#1. Start Here with the serving size.

Title and Serving Size Information section of label, with number of servings.

 

#2. Calories from Fat.

Calorie section of label, showing number of calories per serving and calories from fat.

 

#3. Limit These Nutrients: Total Fat, Saturated Fat, Cholesterol, and Sodium.

Total Fat, Saturated Fat Cholesterol, Sodium with Total Carbohydrate section of label, with quantities and % daily values.

#6. Quick Guide to %DV.

#4. Get Enough of These Nutrients: Dietary Fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron.

Remaining Carbohydrates, including Dietary Fiber and Sugars, Protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium and Iron section of label with % daily values, and quantities for fiber, sugar and protein.

#6. Quick Guide to %DV: 5% or less is Low / 20% or more is High.

#5. The Footnote, or Lower part of the Nutrition Facts Label.

Footnote section of label, indicating quantities of total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, total carbohydrate, and dietary fiber for 2000 and 2500 calorie diets.

 

 http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/foodlab.html