International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

Which food label does not actually provide much information about the food itself?

1. Organic

2. Low-fat

3. Free-range

4. Whole grain

The correct answer is: Free-range

The designation "free-range" on a food label provides limited information about the food itself, especially regarding its nutritional content or specific health benefits. The term primarily describes the living conditions of the animals from which the product (such as eggs or meat) is sourced, indicating that they were allowed some degree of outdoor access. However, this label does not communicate crucial elements such as the overall diet of the animals, the farming practices employed, or the nutritional value of the resulting product. In contrast, terms like "organic," "low-fat," and "whole grain" generally give clearer indications about the nature of the food. "Organic" relates to how the food is produced without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, "low-fat" directly informs consumers about the fat content, and "whole grain" indicates that the product contains the entire grain kernel, which is typically higher in fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains. Each of these terms connotes specific health or quality attributes, whereas "free-range" emphasizes animal welfare rather than direct nutritional information, making it less informative about the food itself.