Ranking updated
How to check carbs when you shop
Whether you follow a low-carb or keto diet, count carbohydrates for diabetes or just want to eat less sugar, the supermarket is where it gets decided. Front-of-pack claims are not enough. A few label habits and a quick scan tell you what is really in the basket.
Practical label habits, then carb scanner apps, with a section for carb scanner apps rising by visits on the Censuus ranking. If you have diabetes, take medication, are pregnant or have a health condition, agree your carb approach with a doctor or dietitian. Low-carb and keto diets do not suit everyone.
Carb scanner apps rising by visits and sponsorship on Censuus
A younger iPhone app from an independent developer:
KetoScanner: Carb ScannerApp Storea carb scanner for checking in the aisle whether a product fits a keto diet.- Your app hereFree, foreverList my app
Use per 100 g to compare
Per-100 g values let you compare products of different pack sizes fairly. Look at total carbohydrates and sugars. Labelling rules differ by country; in some, fibre is included in total carbs and in others it is listed separately.
Check the portion you will eat
Serving sizes on packs can be smaller than the portion you eat, so work out carbs for your amount. For more on labels, see how to read food labels.
Read the ingredients
Sugars hide under many names, such as syrups, dextrose and maltodextrin, and starches add carbs too. “No added sugar” does not mean low in carbohydrates.
Plan and scan
Shop with a list of products you have already checked, and scan new ones in the aisle. Over time you build a set of reliable staples. Compare apps in carb scanner apps.
| Habit | What you check | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Per 100 g | carbs and sugars per 100 g | fair comparisons |
| Per serving | carbs in the amount you eat | what you eat |
| Ingredients | sugars by other names, starches | hidden carbs |
| Compare | similar products side by side | better swaps |
| Scan | barcode for quick details | less squinting at labels |
Frequently asked questions
How do I check carbs on a food label?
Look at total carbohydrates and sugars per 100 g to compare products, then work out the carbs for the portion you will eat.
What are hidden carbs?
Sugars and starches listed under other names, such as syrups, dextrose or maltodextrin, in products you might not expect.
Should I follow a low-carb diet?
It depends on your health and goals. If you have diabetes, take medication or have a health condition, talk to a doctor or dietitian first.