Curious Cook: Food score cards

The Food Compass system also includes phytochemicals (produced by plants), the first time these nutrients have been assessed for healthfulness. Red, blue and purple berries for instance have high amounts of phytochemicals called polyphenols. — VLADA KARPOVICH/Pexels

Like many people, I do not have too much time to ponder about food items when shopping at the supermarkets. Despite our best attempts, it is impossible to get everything from the farmers’ markets and we often must rely on modern packaged foods in the larger shops. For me, that means reading the tiny print at the back of such packaging to check on the levels of sugars, preservatives, colourings, other ingredients, etc.

It is always interesting to know what goes into modern foods and understand the reasons why such compounds are used (both synthetic and natural). If one has any curiosity about modern foods, then please read an earlier 6-part series on How to count on food – Part 1.