π·οΈ Nutrition Label Reader
Read food labels Β· Serving sizes Β· Daily values Β· Compare foods Β· Grades 3β6
π Serving Size
What it meansThe serving size tells you how much of the food equals one serving
Watch outA bag of chips might say 'Serving size: 15 chips' but the bag holds 3 servings!
TipAlways check servings per container β multiply nutrients by servings if you eat the whole thing
π₯ Calories
What they areCalories measure how much energy food gives your body β like fuel for a car
Kids needMost kids ages 6β12 need about 1,600β2,200 calories per day
BalanceNot all calories are equal β 100 calories of fruit gives vitamins, 100 calories of candy doesn't
π % Daily Value
What it means% Daily Value (DV) shows how much of a nutrient one serving provides for a whole day
Low5% DV or less is considered LOW β look for low values in sodium and added sugars
High20% DV or more is considered HIGH β look for high values in fiber, vitamins, and calcium
β οΈ Nutrients to Limit
Added sugarsThe American Heart Association says kids should have less than 25g of added sugar per day
SodiumToo much sodium (salt) can raise blood pressure β look for less than 600mg per serving
Saturated fatLimit saturated fat to less than 10% of daily calories for heart health
π― Quiz Time!
β 0Q 1/4
Why Kids Should Learn to Read Nutrition Labels
Nutrition literacy is a critical life skill. Teaching kids to read food labels helps them make informed choices about what they eat, understand portion sizes, and develop healthy habits that last into adulthood. This aligns with National Health Education Standards for grades 3β6.
This interactive tool breaks down the four key sections of a nutrition label in kid-friendly language, with real-world examples and a quiz to reinforce learning. No login required β just open and explore.
Last reviewed: April 2026
🌟 Keep Exploring