Nutrition Facts Panel

Most people know that they should eat a well-balanced diet containing a variety of foods to maintain good health. However, many think that they have to give up their favorite foods in order to eat a well balanced diet. Good news -your favorite foods can be incorporated into a nutritious diet! In fact, studies have shown that when favorite foods are included, people actually are more likely to stick to a healthier diet.

On nearly all food products you will find a nutrition label called "Nutrition Facts." This information can help you figure out how to incorporate your favorite foods into your diet. The label was developed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help you determine how particular foods fit into a healthy diet; identify nutrients that impact health; and provide guidelines for nutrient claims.

While the Nutrition Facts panel was designed to be easy to read and user friendly, many people may still have questions. The FDA website can answer your questions.

Serving Sizes

Serving sizes are based on a reference amount, as determined by surveys conducted by the U.S. Government.

The reference amount set by the government for one serving of candy (excluding hard candy) is 40 grams (1.4 ounces). Any individually wrapped candy bar that weighs less than 40 grams is considered to be one serving. Although the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act (NLEA) does a good job of standardizing serving sizes by using reference amounts, the serving sizes will vary for the same product based on how it is packaged.

Links

U. S. Food and Drug Administration