What’s the Difference Between Fat-Free and Non-Fat?
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Ask the Diva: What’s the Difference Between Fat-Free and Nonfat?
Q. Is there a difference between fat-free and nonfat? And what makes something “low-fat?”
Answer. Fat-free and nonfat are the same thing. For dairy products, fat-free and nonfat refer to skim milk and products (such as yogurt, cottage cheese, etc.) made from skim milk. Just a reminder: Foods labeled fat-free may still legally contain up to half a gram (0.5g) of fat per serving.
In order to be labeled “low-fat,” a food must have no more than 3g of fat in a typical serving size. In addition, a low-fat food must not get more than 30% of its total calories from fat. For dairy products, “low-fat” refers to 1% milk and products made from 1% milk.
Related Content: Are Fat Free Labels Reliable?
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.