What Does the FDA Define Low-Fat As?

The Food and Drug Administration has devised a labeling policy which determines how low-fat foods are advertised. Knowing what the FDA defines as low-fat can help you better understand the food you are consuming and be more aware of the macronutrient levels in your food.

Identification

• According to the FDA, any food containing 3 grams or less of total fat per typical serving is considered low-fat. Saturated fat, which is included in the total fat count, must be less than 1 gram. An example would be 1 percent milk, which contains 0.5 percent milk fat per 8-ounce serving.

Misconceptions

• Dieters often eat low-fat foods thinking they will help them lose weight. However, most low-fat foods contain even more carbohydrates in the form of sugar than their full-fat counterparts. Excess sugar increases blood sugar and insulin levels and may lead to increased hunger and thus increased caloric intake later on.

Naturally Low-fat Foods

• Instead of opting for prepackaged low-fat foods that often contain high levels of sugar, choose whole-food options that are naturally low in fat, such as fruits, fresh vegetables, whole grains (pasta, bread, cereals) and lean nitrate-free luncheon meats.