Five Key Pieces of Information to Check on the Product Label

Not all food items available for purchase come with detailed labeling—fresh fruits and vegetables, for instance, typically do not. In such cases, prioritize seasonal availability and ripeness, opting for locally sourced produce, which is more likely to retain its nutritional integrity due to shorter supply chains. When selecting exotic varieties, focus on freshness and maturity. For packaged goods with labels, carefully examine the following: **expiration or "best before" dates** – avoid items nearing their shelf-life end if consumption before that date is uncertain; **ingredient composition** – components are listed in descending order by weight, with primary ingredients appearing first; **preservatives and additives** – minimize products containing artificial enhancers; **caloric content** – identical products from different brands may vary significantly in energy value; **macronutrient breakdown** (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) – in dairy, higher protein content is preferable. Unfamiliar E-numbers (e.g., E300) do not inherently indicate harmful substances—E300, for example, represents ascorbic acid (vitamin C). When in doubt, consult official lists of approved food additives for clarification.