Nutrition labeling

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Nutrition labeling refers to the disclosure of nutritional content on food packaging. It is a regulatory measure implemented by health authorities to guide consumers in making healthier food choices. The information provided includes the amount of calories, fats, sugars, and other nutrients contained in the food product.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of nutrition labeling dates back to the early 20th century when the United States and other countries began implementing food labeling laws. The main purpose of these laws was to protect consumers from misleading or false claims about the nutritional content of food products. Over the years, the laws have evolved to include more detailed information about the nutritional content of food products.

Types of Nutrition Labels[edit | edit source]

There are two main types of nutrition labels: the Nutrition Facts label and the Supplement Facts label. The Nutrition Facts label is required on most packaged foods in the United States, while the Supplement Facts label is required on dietary supplements.

Nutrition Facts Label[edit | edit source]

The Nutrition Facts label provides information about the amount of calories, fats, sugars, and other nutrients in a serving of the food product. It also includes information about the recommended daily intake of these nutrients.

Supplement Facts Label[edit | edit source]

The Supplement Facts label provides information about the amount of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in a serving of the dietary supplement. It also includes information about the recommended daily intake of these nutrients.

Importance of Nutrition Labeling[edit | edit source]

Nutrition labeling is important for several reasons. It helps consumers make informed decisions about the food they eat, promotes healthier eating habits, and can help prevent diet-related diseases such as obesity and heart disease.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Nutrition labeling Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD