I use it to determine Weight Watcher points. I do a weihgt watchers type diet, but don't strictly adhere to the fruit/veg #'s etc. if I only have 3 fruits a day instead of 5, the world will still turn. but I never eat more than my allotment of points. Points are determined by calories, grams of fat and grams of fiber. Here's a link to a calculator along with the # of points per day recommended for your weight. http://www.weight-watcher-recipe.com/latest/weight-watchers-point-calculator.html

My wife will calculate the # of points per serving and then write it on the box or can with a sharpie in order to help determine at a glance what we're really going to consume.

Example: there were 2 boxes, different brands, of instant hot chocolate in the pantry. (purchase last year before we started out diets) When I calculated points, a cup of brand A would have been 4 points, while a cup of brand B was only 2 points. Guess which one I chose?

Good morning Bluefish. That was a perfect example of what started me reading labels. Cooly cool example!

I am a label reader - this year I've been trying to stay away from processed foods but still fall back on things like Lean Cuisine and Weight Watchers frozen entrees in a pinch.

And yes--most definitely put down things after reading the labels. I'm always amazed at how much sodium goes into some of these products to make them taste good.

And Zumbadeb, add sugar as a content that will shock also. I am so glad to meet another label reader. I am sure happy we have them because it has influenced my decisions on new products in the market.

How can I forget sugar! You're right. All the stuff they add in - glad we have the option to not eat and put it back on the shelf.