Read food labels one decision at a time

Use the serving size, ingredient list and key nutrients as practical clues—not as a score for the whole food.

Begin with the serving information

A label is most useful when you first check the stated serving size and how many servings are in the package. The amount shown applies to that serving, which may differ from what someone eats at once. FDA guidance explains how to use the Nutrition Facts label; packaged-food labels and required formats may differ across countries.

Compare what matters to you

Look at nutrients or ingredients relevant to your needs, then compare similar products on the same basis. Percent Daily Value is a reference tool on U.S. labels, not an individual prescription. The ingredient list can also clarify what is in a product, including allergens that matter to a household. Follow local allergen-label requirements and advice from your care team.

Avoid turning labels into a verdict

No single number tells the full story of a diet, and label reading should not crowd out taste, affordability, culture or access. If nutrition information feels confusing, choose one question to answer—such as comparing sodium between two soups—instead of analyzing every line. For medically tailored diets or allergy questions, seek specific professional guidance.

Health information note

This article is general educational information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.