food and nutrition p3 Flashcards
(21 cards)
What must the name on a food label do?
It must accurately describe the product and not mislead the consumer.
How are ingredients listed on a food label?
From greatest to smallest by weight.
When are QUIDs (Quantitative Ingredient Declarations) required?
When ingredients are emphasised on the label
What must be included in the ingredients list?
All ingredients, including
water,
flavourings,
colourants,
preservatives,
allergens
What is required for additives?
-All additives must be listed; -flavourings should be clearly labelled
-MSG must be listed as “flavour enhancer”.
What is the function of a food label’s nutritional panel?
To inform consumers of energy, nutrients, and help compare products (especially per 100g).
What is GDA (Guideline Daily Amount)?
Shows nutrient values in a portion and their % of an adult’s daily recommended intake.
What must all product claims be supported by?
Verified nutritional information on the label.
What are food additives?
Substances added to food to improve
shelf life,
taste,
appearance
nutritional value.
Why are food additives used in food production?
To enhance flavour, colour, texture, and shelf life; preserve nutrients; prevent spoilage.
What are the possible health effects of food additives?
cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, or intolerances in sensitive individuals.
What types of food additives are used?
-Nutrients (e.g. vitamins, minerals)
-Emulsifiers (keep ingredients mixed)
-Stabilisers (maintain texture)
-Bleach & Colourants (enhance appearance)
-Chemical preservatives (prevent spoilage)
-Antioxidants (prevent oxidation)
-Flavour enhancers (e.g. MSG)
What safety measures exist for food additives?
Regulations require clear labelling and safety testing. Additives derived from allergens must be declared.
What are genetically modified (GM) foods?
Foods made from organisms with altered DNA to improve resistance, yield, or nutrition.
What are the concerns about genetically modified foods?
Potential long-term health effects, ethical issues, allergenicity, and impact on biodiversity.
What is organic food?
Food grown without synthetic pesticides, GMOs, artificial fertilizers, or antibiotics.
What are the benefits of organic food?
Perceived as healthier, safer for the environment, and more sustainable, though often more expensive.
What is local food production and why is it important in South Africa?
Food grown and sold within a region; supports local economy, reduces transport costs, and improves food security.
What is food security?
Having access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet dietary needs for an active, healthy life.
How do food choices affect public health?
Poor nutrition leads to health issues like obesity, diabetes, heart disease; informed food choices promote better health.
How do food production choices impact the environment?
Use of pesticides, overfarming, and long-distance transport contribute to pollution, climate change, and loss of biodiversity.
