In what order does a food label list ingredients?

A food label lists ingredients in order of weight, starting with the ingredient that is present in the largest amount. This means that the first ingredient listed is typically the main component of the product, while subsequent ingredients follow in descending order based on their weight. This practice helps consumers understand what is primarily contained in the food they are purchasing and can be especially important for individuals with dietary restrictions or those who are trying to avoid certain ingredients.

Alphabetical order would not give an accurate representation of the ingredient composition, and listing the smallest amount first could mislead consumers about the contents. Random order would not provide clarity or consistency, making it difficult for consumers to make informed choices about the food products they select. Thus, the correct approach ensures transparency and informs consumers about the proportions of ingredients in their food.