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Nutrition Facts Label

Nutrition Facts label

You will find this label on most foods.

The Nutrition Facts label allows you to compare similar foods or to check whether the food is a good source of a nutrient. The % Daily Value section can tell you whether a food is high or low in a particular nutrient. If you want to limit a certain nutrient (such as saturated fat or sodium), choose foods with a lower % Daily Value.

Serving sizes of similar foods are the same on all Nutrition Facts labels, to make comparing foods easier. There may be more than one serving in each container. This can make a difference when you are watching your calories and nutrients. The % Daily Value is based on 2,000 calories a day. You may need more or less than 2,000 calories a day. You can see how many calories you need each day by checking the Estimated Energy Requirements tables on Health Canada's website at www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/food-guide-aliment/basics-base/1_1_1-eng.php.

Current as of: March 1, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Rhonda O'Brien MS, RD, CDE - Certified Diabetes Educator
Colleen O'Connor PhD, RD - Registered Dietitian

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