The packet says six crackers. Is that your limit?
No. A serving size is the amount of food that the nutrition information refers to. It is not an instruction telling you how much to eat or drink. Your portion may be smaller, the same or larger.
Question: What does “serving size” mean?
It is the amount behind the numbers in the nutrition facts table. If the serving size is six crackers, the listed nutrition information is for six crackers.
Health Canada explains this in its Nutrition labelling: Nutrition facts table guidance.
Question: Why is it useful to check first?
Serving size represents an amount people typically eat in one sitting, but it is not a recommended portion. Think of it like the scale on a map: it tells you what the numbers are measured against, not where you must go.
When comparing two cracker packets, check that their serving sizes match before comparing the nutrition numbers. This makes the comparison clearer.
One useful takeaway
Read the serving size before using any nutrition number on a packet.
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This article is for general education and does not replace personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional.