Here are useful tips to help you make healthier choices when grocery shopping:

1. Always check nutrition labels, even on foods marketed as “healthier”. Ingredients and nutrient content can differ significantly between brands and preparations. When you have multiple options, compare the labels and opt for the product with the lowest levels of sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, and added sugars.

2. Watch out for hidden ingredients! Sodium and added sugars often appear under different names, making it tricky to know how much is actually in the product.

3. Choose frozen, canned, or dried produce when fresh options are not available or practical. These can be just as nutritious and have a longer shelf life. For canned fruit, select options packed in water, light syrup, or their own juice. When choosing canned or frozen vegetables, look for the ones with the lowest sodium content. Avoid heavy syrups and sauces, as they can add unnecessary ingredients to your healthy fruits and veggies.

4. Go for whole-grain foods. Many products make this claim, but there is an easy way to confirm. Check for "whole grain" (or "whole" followed by the grain name) as the first ingredient. And remember, it is not just about bread—be sure to include whole grains in crackers, cereals, tortillas, pasta, and other grain-based foods.