Tag: 20 margin of error

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

Are all nutrition facts true? The surprising reality of food labels

Nov 18, 2025 •

6 min read

According to the FDA, food labels in the United States are legally allowed to have a margin of error of up to 20%. This surprising fact means that while your nutrition facts panel is regulated, its numbers are not a perfect, unwavering guarantee of the contents within.

Understanding FDA Rules: Does the FDA Allow for a 20% Margin of Error?

Oct 19, 2025 •

4 min read

According to FDA regulations, a $\pm$ 20 percent tolerance is permitted for certain information on nutrition labels, like calories and vitamins. This allowance, however, does not apply across all products, leading many to ask: does the FDA allow for a 20% margin of error in other areas, especially pharmaceuticals?