When it comes to making healthy food choices, understanding what the label on your food really means is essential. The term “healthy” on a food label is no exception.
To understand what a healthy food is, it’s important to look at the guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The FDA defines “healthy” as meaning that a product must contain at least 10% of the Daily Value (DV) of certain nutrients, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Protein, and Fiber. Additionally, foods labeled as “healthy” must be low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.
The FDA also prohibits foods from being labeled as “healthy” if they are high in trans fat or added sugars.
Nutrient Content Claims
The term “healthy” on a food label is often accompanied by other nutrient content claims such as “low-fat” or “high-fiber.” These claims are intended to help consumers make more informed decisions about the foods they are purchasing and eating.
Serving Size
The serving size listed on a food label can also help you determine if it is healthy or not. For example, if a food contains 10% of the DV for one nutrient but the serving size listed is much larger than what you would typically eat in one sitting, then the amount of that nutrient you are actually consuming may be much lower than 10%.
Exemptions
There are some exemptions for certain types of foods when it comes to labeling them as healthy. For example, some products may be labeled as “low-fat” even if they don’t meet all of the criteria for being considered healthy under FDA guidelines. This is because these products may have other health benefits such as being high in fiber or containing certain vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
Ultimately, understanding what the term “healthy” means on a food label can help you make better choices when shopping for groceries and eating out. It’s important to note that while some products may be labeled as “healthy,” they still may not be good for your health depending on their nutrient content and serving size.
What Does the Term Healthy Mean on a Food Label?
The term “healthy” on a food label indicates that according to FDA guidelines, it meets at least 10% of its Daily Value (DV) for key nutrients such as protein, fiber and vitamins A & C; is low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium; and does not contain any trans fats or added sugars. Other factors such as serving size and nutritional content claims should also be taken into consideration when determining how healthy a product is.