Ranking updated
How to read food labels
The front of a package is advertising. The back is information. “Natural”, “light” or “high in protein” tell you what the brand wants you to notice; the ingredient list and nutrition table tell you what is inside. Reading them takes a few seconds once you know the order: serving size, ingredients, then the numbers that matter to you.
A quick method, then food scanner apps, with a section for food scanner apps rising by visits on the Censuus ranking. This is general information: if you have an allergy, a medical condition or a prescribed diet, follow your doctor or dietitian.
Food scanner apps rising by visits and sponsorship on Censuus
Younger iPhone apps from independent developers:
KetoScanner: Carb ScannerApp Storefor checking in the shop aisle whether a product fits a keto diet.
Food Scanner - NutlyApp Storescans a barcode and explains what is in the food, with ingredient and additive details and risk levels spelled out in words.- Your app hereFree, foreverList my app
Ignore the front, turn it over
Words like “natural”, “wholesome” or “light” are marketing, and “light” may only mean lighter than the brand’s own original. The nutrition table and ingredient list on the back are where the facts are.
Read the ingredients from the top
In many countries, ingredients are listed from largest amount to smallest. If sugar, oil or refined flour comes first, that is mostly what you are buying. A long list of things you do not recognise usually means a highly processed product.
Compare like with like
Serving sizes differ between brands and are often smaller than what people eat. Use the per 100g or per 100ml figures to compare two similar products fairly. Watch for sugar under other names, such as syrups, dextrose or concentrated juice.
Let an app do the quick check
Barcode scanner apps read the label for you and explain ingredients and additives in plain words, which helps in a busy shop. Treat scores as a guide, not a verdict. Compare apps in food scanner apps.
| Look at | What to check | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Serving size | is it what you actually eat? | figures are per serving |
| Ingredient list | the first ingredients | they are the largest part |
| Per 100g column | compare similar products | a fair comparison |
| Sugar and salt | also under other names | hidden in many foods |
| Allergens | usually highlighted in the list | safety for allergies |
Frequently asked questions
How do I read a food label?
Check the serving size, read the first ingredients, compare similar products per 100g, look for sugar and salt under other names and check the allergens.
Why does the order of ingredients matter?
In many countries ingredients are listed from largest amount to smallest, so the first few make up most of the product.
Are food scanner app scores reliable?
They are a useful quick guide based on available product data, but not a substitute for advice from a doctor or dietitian.