Guide

How to Read a Nutrition Facts Label

Serving size changes everything.

The useful part

Start at the top of the label. Nutrition numbers are generally listed for one serving, so eating two servings usually means twice the listed calories and nutrients.

How to use it

Use % Daily Value as a comparison shortcut. FDA’s general guide calls 5% DV or less low and 20% DV or more high.

For many people, fiber, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium are nutrients to seek more often, while saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars are often worth limiting. Context and personal needs still matter.

Try the Nutrition Label Analyzer →