The Nutrition Facts label helps compare nutrient amounts when you check the serving basis. Start with the serving size and number of servings, then read the nutrient relevant to the front-package claim. A partly quoted labeling rule is not a useful substitute for those numbers.
Quick Answer
Compare the front-package claim with the relevant Nutrition Facts information, using equivalent amounts of food. Nutrient-content claims have specific FDA definitions and conditions; agreement with a per-serving number alone does not prove every claim is valid.
How to Accurately Compare Per-Serving Data Across Products
To compare per-serving data accurately, check the Nutrition Facts label for the number of servings per container and the total nutrients per serving. For instance, a package with multiple single-serving containers lists the number of servings as the count of individual packages within the total package.
The label's percent Daily Value (%DV) section helps consumers understand how much of each nutrient they are consuming relative to daily needs.
If food is sold without an individual package, look for available nutrition information at the point of purchase. Confirm the portion it describes before using it in a comparison.
- Servings per container counts label servings, which are not necessarily the same as individual pieces or inner packages.
- Use the percent Daily Value (%DV) to compare nutrient contributions relative to daily needs across products.
- Verify that the serving size matches the reference amount customarily consumed to ensure accurate comparisons.
- Keep the claim and the food it describes together when checking a rule; an isolated exception from a regulation may have a narrower scope than it appears.
When Front-Label Claims Are Not Applicable or Need Context
Nutrition labeling for raw fruits, vegetables, and fish is generally voluntary, but a nutrient claim or statement can trigger labeling requirements.
For products with nonsmooth surfaces like waffles, manufacturers must use standardized methods to ensure consistent volume measurements. The reference amounts customarily consumed are used to determine whether a product meets nutrient content claims.
Some packages use two nutrition columns. Read the headings to distinguish the amount per serving from the amount in the whole package before comparing values.
- Raw produce and fish can carry claims; do not infer from voluntary labeling that claim rules are inapplicable.
- Products with nonsmooth surfaces require standardized volume measurements to ensure accurate nutrient density calculations.
- The reference amounts customarily consumed are used to validate whether products meet nutrient content claims.
- However, the reference amounts customarily consumed in 101.12(b) shall be used for purposes of evaluating whether individual foods in a gift package qualify for nutrient content claims or health claims.
How to Use the Nutrition Facts Label for Informed Choices
The label serving reflects customary consumption and provides a basis for reading the numbers; it does not prescribe a portion.
Added sugars are listed on the Nutrition Facts label to help consumers make informed choices based on their individual needs and preferences. The label provides the number of grams and percent Daily Value (%DV) for added sugars, allowing users to track their intake and compare products with similar sugar content.
For a multipack, check whether the nutrition information describes one inner container, one serving, or the complete outer package. Use the amount you will actually consume.
- Compare the label serving with your actual portion before comparing nutrient amounts.
- Added sugars are listed with grams and percent Daily Value (%DV) to track intake and compare products.
FAQ
Why do some products have different serving sizes on the Nutrition Facts label?
Label serving sizes are based on customary consumption, not personal dietary recommendations.
How do I know if a product's front-package claim is accurate?
Compare the front-package claim with the Nutrition Facts label's per-serving data. For sugar comparisons, read the grams and Added Sugars %DV; FDA has not defined a “low sugar” nutrient-content claim.
Do raw fruits and vegetables need nutrition labels?
Nutrition labeling is generally voluntary for raw fruits, vegetables, and fish, with exceptions such as a nutrient claim or statement.
