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Nutrition Facts Labels

Cholesterol on the Nutrition Label

2 min read · Educational overview

Key takeaways

Cholesterol is listed on the label in milligrams, on the 'nutrients to limit' side. It's one of the more misunderstood lines, partly because the science has evolved.

Dietary vs. blood cholesterol

There are two different things called cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol is what's in food — egg yolks, shrimp, organ meats, dairy. Blood cholesterol is the waxy substance circulating in your body, which your liver makes and which affects heart-disease risk. The label reports dietary cholesterol.

The shifting guidance

For years, dietary cholesterol was strictly limited on the assumption it directly raised blood cholesterol. Research has since shown that for most people, saturated and trans fats raise blood cholesterol more than dietary cholesterol does. The Dietary Guidelines dropped a specific daily cap on cholesterol, though they still advise eating as little as practical while maintaining a healthy diet.

The Daily Value

The label still uses a Daily Value of 300 milligrams for cholesterol. It sits with the nutrients to limit, so a lower %DV is preferable, but for most healthy people it's a lower priority than saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.

Cholesterol in drinks

Most drinks contain little or no cholesterol unless they're made with dairy, cream, or eggs. A cream-based frappuccino or an eggnog latte will show some; a black coffee, tea, or soda shows zero. It's rarely the deciding factor for a beverage.

Frequently asked questions

Is dietary cholesterol still limited?

The Dietary Guidelines no longer set a strict daily cap, because for most people saturated fat affects blood cholesterol more. Labels still show a 300 mg Daily Value, and eating cholesterol in moderation is still advised.

Does cholesterol in food raise blood cholesterol?

It can, but for most people the effect is smaller than that of saturated and trans fats. Individual responses vary, so people with heart concerns should follow their doctor's advice.

See it on a real label

Build a Nutrition Facts label for any drink and watch the sugar, added sugars, and caffeine update as you customize it.

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This article is general educational information, not medical, nutritional, or legal advice. For guidance about your own diet or health conditions such as diabetes, talk to a qualified healthcare professional. Nutrition values cited are typical figures and vary by product and preparation.