Food labelling
Over the past 40 years, the range , of foods available in packets, jars and cans has increased dramatically. Legislative bodies recognised that consumers required more information in order to make the best choices * for health, which resulted in improved product labels. Food manufacturers in the European Community and North America are required by law to provide the following information on product label: total weight or volume, a list of the ingredients and of the additives in order of weight, the name and address of the manufacturer and the country of origin.
Manufacturers should also list caloric value per lOOg, suggested number of servings the packaged food
provides and the date after which the product cannot be sold or should not be eaten. This date is usually stamped on the lid or the base of products. Many labels also provide a nutritional analysis of food, such as total fat, carbohydrate and protein content.
In addition to the food the various preservatives aor oils and sauces are also listed .
Peanut oil is often listed , and you may wonder what that wouls have to do with a loaf of bread , but it is of corse , lubrication for the machines that are used in the factory, though duck and coconut oil would be ok , and are also used .( peanut oil is cheaper!)
DID YOU KNOW?
The essential amino acid phenylalanine forms part of the artificial sweetener aspartame, which is used in a wide range of sugar-free foods and beverages such as diet yoghurt and low-calorie colas. Although aspartame is considered a safe product by government health departments, it should always be used in moderation.
