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How to read a Nutrition Facts label in 30 seconds
Serving size drives every number. Compare per-100 g when the servings are dramatically different — a 'low sugar' cereal is often just a smaller serving.
Reviewed by Dr. Maya Iyer · RD, MPHLast reviewed 2026-02-25 · corrections log
The five numbers that matter most
Serving size · Calories · Added sugars · Sodium · Fiber. Everything else is context.
Percent Daily Value shortcut
5% or less = low, 20% or more = high — for any nutrient. That's the whole cheat sheet.
Sources
- FDA Nutrition Facts label rules
- USDA MyPlate
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