FCS 6th Grade
Strand 1
2 class periods of 45 minutes each
Small Groups
The label on a food product gives us many different types of information: ingredients, serving size, nutrition, etc.
Various food labels for students to read. Supplies for the product of choice.
Give the students actual food labels and food packages and have them complete the student activity guide, Let's Read Labels. Labels and packages may be given to students individually, in pairs, or as lab groups.
The concept of mandatory vs. voluntary information can be introduced using the following definitions. To help you teach them, consider making posters.
Mandatory information: information that is required by law to be on a food label.
Voluntary information: information found on a food label that is not required by law.
Mandatory information includes
Voluntary information includes
Introduce the terms, calories, and empty calories, with these definitions:
Basic cooking terminology.
Students will learn to read labels and compare the nutrients and ingredients in foods.
LABEL EASE (Note: This video is no longer available.)
Use the materials from the Dairy Council of Utah to introduce the students to the concept of becoming familiar with information provided on labels. This material helps the students understand labeling terminology and how to interpret it. Student activity guides are provided as part of the materials. You will need to purchase the cards for students, but they are inexpensive. (Label Ease, Dairy Council of Utah, 1213 East 2100 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84106. 801--487--9976. Cost: $5.25)