Pure Encapsulations Magnesium (Glycinate) - Supplement to Support Stress Relief, Sleep, Heart Health, Nerves, Muscles, and Metabolism* - with Magnesium Glycinate - 90 Capsules
$26.00 (as of May 19, 2025 11:59 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Understanding Food Labels
Food labels are essential tools that provide consumers with vital information about the nutritional content and ingredients of food products. They help individuals make informed choices about their diet and health. Understanding food labels can empower consumers to select healthier options and avoid unwanted additives or allergens.
Nutrition Facts Panel
The Nutrition Facts panel is a standardized section found on food labels that outlines the nutritional content of a serving size. This panel includes information on calories, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. By reading the Nutrition Facts panel, consumers can assess how a particular food fits into their daily dietary needs and goals.
Serving Size
Serving size is a critical component of food labels, indicating the amount of food that is typically consumed in one sitting. It is important to pay attention to serving sizes, as they can significantly influence the nutritional values listed on the label. Many people underestimate their portion sizes, which can lead to unintentional overconsumption of calories and nutrients.
Ingredients List
The ingredients list on food labels provides a detailed account of what is contained within the product. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, meaning the first few ingredients are the most prevalent. This section is crucial for individuals with food allergies or those who wish to avoid certain additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.
Allergen Information
Food labels must clearly indicate the presence of common allergens, such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. This information is vital for individuals with food allergies, as even trace amounts of these allergens can trigger severe reactions. Understanding allergen information can help consumers make safer food choices.
Daily Value Percentages
Daily Value percentages on food labels indicate how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet based on a 2,000-calorie intake. These percentages help consumers understand the nutritional significance of a food item in the context of their overall diet. Foods that provide 20% or more of the Daily Value for a nutrient are considered high in that nutrient.
Added Sugars
The inclusion of added sugars on food labels has become increasingly important as awareness of sugar’s impact on health grows. Added sugars are those that are not naturally occurring in the food and can contribute to various health issues, including obesity and diabetes. Consumers should be mindful of the amount of added sugars in their diet and choose products with lower levels.
Health Claims
Food labels often feature health claims that highlight specific benefits of the product, such as “low fat,” “high fiber,” or “heart-healthy.” These claims can be helpful in guiding consumers toward healthier options, but it is essential to read the entire label to understand the overall nutritional profile of the product. Not all health claims are created equal, and some may be misleading.
Expiration Dates
Expiration dates on food labels indicate the period during which the product is expected to maintain its quality and safety. Understanding these dates is crucial for food safety, as consuming expired products can lead to foodborne illnesses. Consumers should be aware of “sell by,” “use by,” and “best before” dates to ensure they are consuming food at its best quality.
Understanding Food Label Regulations
Food labels are regulated by government agencies, such as the FDA in the United States, which sets guidelines for what information must be included and how it should be presented. These regulations aim to ensure that consumers have access to accurate and reliable information about the food they purchase. Staying informed about these regulations can help consumers better navigate food labels and make healthier choices.
