Knowing how to decode packaging helps you make better choices in the shop.

What to look at

• The ingredients list — ordered from the largest quantity down. The shorter it is, the better.
• Sugars — watch out for hidden names (glucose syrup, dextrose and so on).
• Salt — often high in processed products.
• The Nutri-Score — a quick guide running from A (favourable) to E.

A useful habit

If sugar or a fat appears among the first few ingredients, the product contains a lot of it. Comparing two similar products often reveals big differences.

Key takeaway: a short, readable ingredients list is generally a good sign. The Nutri-Score helps you compare at a glance.