Food Labels and You !

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The major aspects of nutrition labeling regulations include the need to list all ingredients, including all additives, vitamins, minerals or any preservatives.  The label must include the serving size which must be clearly defined as to what is contained in each of serving.  Within these standards, the daily values in a percentage format for the food contained in the package must be clearly identified in line with what the USDA Food Guide dictates.  In addition, the total food energy (kcalories), food energy from fat (kcalories), total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium, total carbohydrate, dietary fiber, sugars, protein, vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron and Calcium must be defined as to amount and percentage of daily value. 

Food labels must contain the name and address of the manufacture,r packer, or distributor.  These must be displayed in a clear manner and be readily visible.  Also, the common or usual product name must be defined in a dominant manner as well as any nutrient claims as per the compliance of defined criteria by the Federal Department of Agriculture.  The net weight of the container, measure, or count of all products must be clearly labeled and easy to identify.  For food, If any health claims are made, they must be in relation to the terms of the total diet.  Care must be used in differentiating claims of structure and function and treatment of disease. The FDA allows supplement manufacturers to make a structure and function claim (by meeting certain requirements), but not to claim that a supplement treats, prevents or diagnoses disease.

If you find any labels that do not contain the above information run, don't walk !!!

 

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