Understanding Food Labels at a Glance

Food labels can help you compare similar products. Check the serving size first, then look at the nutrients and ingredients that matter to your needs. Remember that packages may contain more than one serving. The ingredient list is generally ordered by weight, so the first ingredients make up the largest share of the product. Compare sodium, added sugars, fibre, or other details when useful, while considering the food as part of your overall eating pattern. Labels are one source of information, not a judgement about a food. If you need a specialised diet for a medical reason, a registered dietitian or healthcare professional can help interpret labels for your situation.