These provide useful nutritional information to consumers regarding the product considered. Food labeling regulations are constantly changing. However, there are certain items that tend to be more widespread across labels and countries. Many of these are discussed here.

Ingredients that are constituent in a product are listed on food labels in descending order of proportion. Some products do not need to carry a label (such as unwrapped bread or coffee). The only ingredient that does not need to be listed is water.

"Best before" indicates the best time within which to eat the food. "Use by" is used mainly on foods that should not be consumed after this date for reasons related to health and safety.

Labels much include the name and address of the supplier of the food. A statement will also be included indicating the country in which the food was made or manufactured (country of origin).

This panel includes information on the energy content (kj), protein, fat, carbohydrate (including sugar), sodium and other nutrients for which there has been a claim made. Nutrients are normally given "per serve" and "per 100 grams". This is done so that consumers can compare the nutrient profile of the product with similar foods.

There are other nutritional symbols and guides which may be present on the pack. These could include:

• Daily Intake Guide

  This is a graphical guide that highlights the constituent nutrients in the product and how a serve relates to the recommended daily intake of that nutrient.

• GI symbol

  The Glycaemic Index symbol (GI) rates foods on their GI. The lower the GI, the slower the food is digested.

Source: Australian Food and Grocery Council 2008, Nutrition and Health Guide.

Visit our products area to view ingredient and nutritional information for Uncle Ben's ^® products.