Understanding Food Labels: What You Need to Know
18 Nov 2024
5 Min Read
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Summary :
Did you know about food labels which are shown on food packages? You have to know about food labels…
Introduction
Nowadays we notice one thing even after cooking food at home we are not healthy and facing many health issues. Why? Because there is an abundance of misguiding labeled food packets, understanding food labels has become tougher than selecting jewelry. At FactsScan, we aim to empower you with the reality check to make informed decisions about what you buy and eat. This blog will guide you about the essential reading and understanding of food labels, so you can shop and live healthier.
Why Food Labels Matter?
Food labels are a main source of information, which gives information about what’s in your food and how it can impact your family’s health.They can help you:
- Compare different products
- Manage dietary restrictions
- Make healthier choices
- Avoid allergens
- Understand the nutritional value of what you are going to eat.
The Basics of Food Labels
Every food label contains essential information that can guide you in selecting food. Here’s what you need to look for:
1. Serving Size
These values differ for liquid and solid food packs and they tell you the amount of food that is considered a
single serving. All the nutritional information on the label is based on serving size. Be sure about how much
you actually eat.
2. Calories
This indicates the amount of energy you are going to consume from a single serving. So it is most important
to always keep your eyes on the calories you consume for your weight and overall health.
3. Nutrients
The label also shows all positive and negative nutrients of the food like fats, cholesterol, sodium,
carbohydrates, fiber, sugars, and proteins. Here’s what you should focus on:
- Total Fat, Saturated Fat, and Trans Fat : Need to think twice before consuming it and also try to control it as it is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- Cholesterol and Sodium : Excessive dietary fat(fat in food and drinks) consumption can increase the risk of obesity, coronary heart disease
- Total Carbohydrates, Dietary Fiber, and Sugars : The carbs you consume affect your blood sugar so always choose a food that is low in carbs and sugar and high in fiber.
- Proteins: It is the most important component of food for muscle growth, you must consume in enough portions, especially if you’re active.
4. Vitamins and Minerals
These include mainly Vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium, some companies may clierly list down or not.
Try to get 100% of the daily suggested amount to support overall health.
5. Ingredient List
The ingredient section is always listed in descending order as per weight, including water. It means product
is maily made up from first few, so always be aware of top ingredients.
6. Percent Daily Values (%DV)
The percent Daily values show that from your daily nutrient how much this product contributes in single
serving. These DV% will help to decide if a serving of food is high or low in nutrients.
How FactsScan Can Help?
Properly understanding food labels is the first step toward healthier shopping choices, but it can still be a very large process. That’s where FactsScan comes in. Our app simplifies this process by providing detailed, easy-to-understand, and accurate information with just a barcode scan. Here’s how:
1. Instant Nutritional Information
Quickly get comprehensive detailed bifurcation of all positive and negative nutritional information such as calories, fats, sugars, protein, and more.
2. Health Scores
Get a precise score for each food product using Artificial Intelligence and an approved algorithm, which makes it easiest to identify the healthiest options.
3. Ingredient Analysis
Understand each ingredient of the food and its impact on health.
4. Allergen Alerts
Stay safe with warnings about potential product ingredient allergens and user allergens.
5. Personalized Recommendations
Based on your dietary preferences and previously scanned product history, FactsScan suggests healthier alternatives of your favorite foods.
6. Favorite List
Create a favorite list of your favorite product for later use, you can create your custom favorite menu also using FactsScan.
7. Share Favorite Product List
Your favorite product list can be shared with your family and friends for healthy recommendations using easy share options.
Tips for Smarter Shopping
- Plan Ahead: Make a shopping list based on your health goal preference and stick to it.
- Use FactsScan: Scan products with the FactsScan app for instant, detailed information.
- Read analysis: Take the time and read a breakdown of all ingredients and nutritional facts provided by FactsSCan before making a purchase.
- Choose Whole Foods: Give preference to whole, unprocessed foods if possible.
Conclusion
Understanding food labels and their insight is essential for making healthier food choices. With FactsScan, you can simplify this process and take control of your healthy shopping and lifestyle. Download FactsScan today and start shopping smarter!
Ready to make Healthier Choices?
Download FactsScan now from the Google Play Store and App Store and take charge of your food choices.
Sweety Patel
Author
Sweety Patel, founder of FactsScan, has over 14 years of experience in the development industry, where she has successfully created multiple applications. Driven by her passion for food safety and health, she launched FactsScan to provide consumers with a reliable solution to understand what they’re eating, its nutritional value, and better alternatives. With extensive research in food and nutrition, Sweety is committed to empowering people to make informed food choices for a healthier lifestyle.
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