ABSTRACT
Rates of overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes, and their sequelae are increasing around the globe in both developed and developing nations (International Diabetes Federation 2011; WHO 2003).
Carbohydrates (sugars, maltodextrins, starches, and fiber) in foods and drinks are associated with the risk of developing these conditions (Hauner et al. 2012). Nutrition Information/Facts are provided either voluntarily or are mandated on the labels of packaged foods in developed and developing nations, and are regulated by government agencies (Food Standards Australia New Zealand 2013). In some nations, the only requirement is information on total carbohydrates per 100 g/mL of food, whereas in others, sugars (total) and dietary fiber are also included. In addition, in most nations, ingredient lists are mandated on the labels of most packaged foods and these incorporate the names of common carbohydrate-containing ingredients. Consumers are able to utilize this information about the amount and quality of the carbohydrate in a food or beverage to make informed food purchasing decisions at the point of sale to assist with the prevention and management of overweight/obesity and their sequelae.
