When you stroll through the grocery store, you’ll see terms like “good source” and “high source” on food labels. These terms aim to help you make smart choices. But what do they really mean?
The FDA has clear rules about these labels. For a food to be labeled as a “good source” of a nutrient, it must contain 10-19% of the Daily Value (DV) for that nutrient. For example, if a packed granola bar claims to be a “good source” of iron, it should have between 1.8 to 3.42 milligrams of iron per serving, since the daily recommendation for iron is 18 milligrams.
In contrast, if a food is labeled as a “high” source, it means it contains 20% or more of the DV. So, a piece of broccoli might be termed a “high source of vitamin D,” while a handful of almonds would be a “good source of protein.”
Understanding these terms helps you evaluate what you’re eating more accurately. The FDA’s approach is formulaic and based on science, not marketing gimmicks. Recently, studies showed that about 75% of consumers expect clear and honest labeling on their food. This reflects a growing desire for transparency in the food industry.
The FDA aims to protect public health and ensures that the information on food labels is factual. This is different from the USDA, which has its own set of regulations. For accurate labeling, consider this: if you want to check if a food is a “good source” of a nutrient, divide the daily recommended value by the nutrient content listed on the package. If the result is between 0.1 and 0.19, then it qualifies.
In a world where marketing can blur the lines, understanding these guidelines helps you make better dietary choices. Keep an eye on those labels and take the time to read them. Your health is worth it!
