The nutrition facts label provides important information to help consumers make healthy choices. It lists the serving size and calories per serving, including calories from fat. The % daily value helps identify nutrients where less is better, like fat, and nutrients where more is better, like fiber. It's important to limit total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar and calories from added sugars while getting enough vitamins, minerals, fiber and overall calories. Comparing labels allows identification of the healthiest option based on lower fat and sugar and higher nutrient content.

1. Just The FactsUnderstanding The Nutrition Facts Label on Foods

2. The Nutrition Facts Label

3. Serving SizeNotice the serving size amountcups, ounces, piecesServing size affects calories and the amount of nutrients a person is getting

4. Calories and calories from fatCalories are a measurement of how much energy you get from a single serving of foodGeneral guide to calories:40 calories per serving is low100 calories per serving is moderate400 calories per serving is high

5. Calories from fatThe amount of the total calories that come from fat sourcesCalories are per serving sizemore servings = more caloriesCalories and calories from fatEating too many calories per day is linked to overweight and obesity.

6. Limit These Nutrients:NutrientsShown to increase risk of heart disease and high blood pressure5% or less% daily value is low

7. Get enough of these:NutrientsHelp reduce the risk of certain diseases20% or more % daily value is high

8. Percent Daily Value (%DV) Helps you decide if a serving of food is high or low in a nutrientPercentage is based on the Daily Value recommendations for a 2,000 calories dietDon’t have to know your calorie needs to use the % daily value5% or less is low, 20% or more is high

9. SugarsNaturals sugars from fruits and milk are BEST

10. Avoid processed sugars from white sugar, high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, and molasses

11. Check ingredients for added sugars

12. Compare amount of sugar in similar productsLimit added sugar to no more than 40 grams/day… = 10 teaspoons of sugar!

13. FatTotal Fat

14. from all sources

15. Daily value = less than 65g for 2,000 calories

16. Saturated Fat