What Food Labels Won’t Tell You (But You Need to Know)

2026-01-06

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Is your child's “healthy” snack actually hurting their health? Kate Mason welcomes back Mandy Sacher to expose the shocking truth behind food labels, Australia's Health Star Rating system, and the hidden dangers of ultra-processed foods. With over two decades of experience in children’s nutrition and a background in investigative journalism, Mandy breaks down how misleading marketing tactics are manipulating parents—and how it’s impacting kids' health. From advocating government change to launching her own Real Food Rating ...

Is your child's “healthy” snack actually hurting their health?

Kate Mason welcomes back Mandy Sacher to expose the shocking truth behind food labels, Australia's Health Star Rating system, and the hidden dangers of ultra-processed foods.

With over two decades of experience in children’s nutrition and a background in investigative journalism, Mandy breaks down how misleading marketing tactics are manipulating parents—and how it’s impacting kids' health.

From advocating government change to launching her own Real Food Rating system and app, Mandy shares practical, empowering steps to help families make smarter choices at the supermarket.

If you’ve ever been confused or misled by a “no added sugar” claim or a suspicious five-star rating on a packaged snack, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen For

00 Why can’t we trust health star ratings on food labels?

3:46 What made Mandy Sacher realize food labels were misleading?

6:34 How are ultra-processed foods getting rewarded as “healthy”?

20:11 What needs to change in Australia’s nutrition policies?

30:33 How will the new Real Food Rating app help parents shop smarter?

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Connect with guest: Mandy Sacher | Pediatric Nutritionist and Chief Nutrition Officer

Website | Instagram | Real Food Rating Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

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