Deconstructing Food Labels – What They’re Really Saying

podcast

Nov 7

Food labels can be confusing, but understanding them is one of the most important tools for making informed nutrition choices. This episode of Real World Nutrition begins a two-part series on decoding the messages on food packaging.

Learn what’s required by law on food labels — from the product name and ingredients list to allergen disclosures and the Nutrition Facts panel — and what’s optional but still regulated by the FDA. Shelley explains nutrient content claims like “low sodium,” “high fiber,” and “fat-free,” and clarifies what those terms actually mean.

You’ll also discover the difference between health claims, structure-function claims, and marketing language that can make products sound healthier than they are.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have the knowledge to read food labels with confidence and make choices based on facts, not front-of-package hype.

Links to related blog posts are included in the show notes. And tune into the next episode (215) for part 2, Deconstructing Food Labels: Marketing, Misleading Claims, and Red Flags.

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Shelley Rael, MS RDN

Shelley A. Rael, MS RDN, is a dedicated Registered Dietitian Nutritionist based in New Mexico, USA. As the owner of Real World Nutrition, her private practice, she's passionate about guiding individuals toward eating and living healthier in the real world. Beyond one-on-one consultations, Shelley is a multifaceted professional. She's a podcaster, author, speaker, and consultant known for her commitment to dispelling nutrition myths and providing evidence-based information. Her mission is to empower people to achieve improved health, wellness, and energy without resorting to restrictive diets or misinformation.

https://www.shelleyrael.com/