A food label carries a lot of information in a small space. Knowing where to look makes it much easier to choose with confidence.
Start with the ingredient list
Ingredients are generally listed in descending order by weight, so the first few tell you what the product is mostly made of.
Check for allergens
Allergens are usually highlighted in the ingredient list or in a separate statement. If you or someone you are buying for has an allergy, this is the part to read first.
Look at the net weight
The net weight tells you how much food is in the pack, which helps when you compare prices between sizes and brands.
Read the nutrition panel per 100 g
Comparing products per 100 g puts them on the same footing, whatever the pack size or suggested serving.
Note the dates and storage guidance
Best-before or expiry dates and storage directions tell you how to keep the product at its best once it is open.
Labels are not always exciting reading, but they are the clearest way to know what comes into your home.
