Food Labels & Nutrient Claims and Organic Foods

 What is an absolute claim?

 characterizes the exact amount or range of a nutrient in a particular food. Terms that indicate an absolute claim are free and low. For example, to meet the definition of low sodium, a food must contain 140 milligrams or less per reference amount.

 What is a relative claim?

 Is a statement that compares the nutrient content of one food to another food, known as the reference food. Words like reduced and less can also indicate a relative claim; reduced, as well as added and light or lite, may be used to compare products that are similar (such as cookies to cookies),

What is an implied claim? What is an example of one?

is a statement that highlights the presence or absence of an ingredient that is associated with the level of a nutrient. High in oat bran carries the implied claim that the food is high in fiber, so any food with this claim must meet the established criteria for high-fiber foods. 

What are organic foods?

Foods grown and processed without most synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, antibiotics, or hormones.

“100% Organic”

 Contains 100% organic ingredients.

“Organic”

 Contains 95% or more organic ingredients.

“Made with Organic Ingredients”

Contains at least 70% organic ingredients.

 <70% organic

organic ingredients may only be listed in the ingredient list, not on the front label.