
Why Food Labels Matter More Than You Think
In today’s busy world, convenience often drives our food choices. But what’s inside those neatly packaged products can affect everything from digestion and energy to long-term health. That’s why understanding how to read food labels is a crucial skill—especially if you’re trying to avoid gluten, unnecessary additives, or eat cleaner.
For those following a gluten-free lifestyle, food labels aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. Gluten often hides behind complex ingredient names or in products you wouldn’t expect, making label-reading a powerful step toward smarter, healthier eating.
Common Places Gluten Hides on Labels
Gluten isn’t always listed as “wheat” or “barley.” It can sneak in
under less obvious names. Watch out for these:
- Modified food starch (unless specifically labeled as corn-based)
- Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP)
- Malt, malt extract, malt vinegar
- Artificial flavorings (may contain gluten-based carriers)
- Soy sauce (unless marked gluten-free)
Even small traces can affect those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity—so being label-savvy is key.
Ingredients to Avoid for a Cleaner Diet
Beyond gluten, many packaged foods contain additives that aren’t great for your health. Here are some red flags:
- Artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, and sodium benzoate
- Flavor enhancers like monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Synthetic colors (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5)
- Excess sodium, added sugars, and hydrogenated oils
These ingredients often extend shelf life or improve taste—but they can also cause inflammation, digestive issues, or fatigue in sensitive individuals.
Quick Tips to Read Food Labels Smarter
- Scan the ingredient list first – The fewer, the better. Whole, recognizable ingredients win.
- Look for “gluten-free certified” – Especially if you’re avoiding gluten strictly.
- Check the order – Ingredients are listed in descending order of quantity.
- Don’t trust front-of-pack buzzwords – Words like “natural” or “light” can be misleading if the ingredient list doesn’t match.
Where Kernell’s Stands in All This

Kernell’s Corn Rice and Corn Flour are made with simple, local ingredients, and are naturally gluten-free, additive-free, and preservative-free. With no hidden names, no synthetic enhancements, and no unnecessary fillers, Kernell’s keeps your label-checking easy—and your meals safe.
These products are ideal for people who value transparency and want to build meals around ingredients they understand and trust.
- 100% gluten-free
- No additives or artificial colors
- Locally sourced Sri Lankan corn
- Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients
For those looking to eat clean, shop smarter, and cook better, Kernell’s Corn Rice and Corn Flour are clear choices—with nothing to hide.
074 391 7885 | kernells.lk