The Truth About Labels
What food labels are about and how do I make
healthier choices?
S
Food Labels
How to read a food label
S The first step in reading a food label is looking at the
Nutrition Information Panel or NIP
S This table will provide a snapshot of the contents of
the product
S The NIP is a good tool to compare products and allow
you to make healthier choices
NIP
Things to focus on:
Per 100g / ml column
– provides percentage
of nutrient type and
easy comparison
Fat
Sugar
Sodium
Other items on the label
S The ingredients list:
S listed from most to least ingredients. The first three ingredient
can give you an indicator of what the product is made of.
S Allergen:
S Product must state if any allergens are detectable or there are
traces of an allergen
S Country of Origin:
S Must be stated. ‘Made in Australia’ label can only be stated for
all ingredients and processing completed in Australia
Nutrition and Health Claims
S Nutrition Claims:
S Claim may state the content of a nutrient and the role in the
body
S Product needs to meet criteria
S Health Claims:
S Describe relationship between nutrient and health benefit
S Needs to meet the FSANZ Standards – See Website
Used By Date Vs. Best Before
Dates
S Used By Date:
S Foods that are perishable and can not be consumed.
S Best Before Date:
S Foods that can be kept longer than this date. The
nutrient value may have decreased after this date.
Choosing Best Food for Health
S Reading labels and comparing foods with the knowledge of
interpreting the label can assist choosing healthier options.
S Golden Rules for Food Labels
S 1) Check the fat content
Aim for less than 10g per 100g
S 2) Check sugar content
Aim for less than 10g per 100g
S 3) Check the ingredients list
Which ingredient is listed in the first three
Lets Read Some Labels
Lets compare some food labels and interpret
the information you find on the label
Discussion on food labels
Any Questions?