Calories on Packaged Foods Aren’t Exact – Here’s How to Stop Being Misled
When a class action lawsuit accused David protein bars of containing 400% more fat and 80% more calories than advertised, the internet erupted. Comparisons to Mean Girls’ Regina George – who gained weight eating “healthy” bars – went viral. The case was dismissed this week, but it cracked open a little-known truth about how food labels really work.
The 20% Loophole
According to U.S. FDA regulations, packaged food labels can legally be off by up to 20% for calories, fat, added sugar, carbs, and fiber. That means a bar labeled 200 calories could deliver 240. Nutrients like protein and vitamins can be 20% lower than stated.
The FDA doesn’t pre-approve labels. Manufacturers self-report based on lab analyses or database estimates – both of which vary by batch, processing method, and in...