Aug 9, 2024
By: Ashmita Gupta
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“The food industry isn’t directly fooling us, but we’re getting fooled by not checking the packaging,” says Dr Meghana Pasi, nutritionist and Head of the MyThali program. To avoid getting fooled, she shares 7 tips to decipher these complex food labels!
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The ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. A long list, especially with multiple additives, often indicates a more processed food. Opt for products with simpler ingredient lists.
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Always verify the 'use by' or 'best before' date to ensure product freshness and safety. And remember: “the longer it can stay on the shelf, the longer it’ll stay in your stomach”.
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Pay close attention to serving sizes as the nutritional information is based on this. Compare the nutrient content of the serving size to the recommended daily intake.
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Lower sodium options are generally healthier. Excessive sodium consumption can lead to health issues.
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Aim for products with less than 5% added sugars. Excessive sugar intake is linked to various health problems.
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Foods high in protein and fibre are generally more filling and nutritious. They contribute to overall health and satiety.
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Be cautious of misleading health claims. Focus on the actual ingredient list and nutrient information rather than relying solely on marketing claims. If you have specific dietary needs/allergies, carefully check the ingredients for any potential allergens or harmful substances.
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