The lies and truths of "zero calorie." Why can it be called "zero" when it's not 0kcal? | Food | Business | Thinking Methods | Trivia | Writing | SNS Strategy
Hello everyone! This is Kuro no Ichigo😊
A series on questioning the everyday norm. This time, it's about **"zero calorie"** products, a great ally for dieting.
"Since it's zero, I won't gain weight no matter how much I drink!" I'm sure many of you drink it down thinking that.
However, if you look closely at the back of the package, there is actually a somewhat surprising rule that says **"if it's less than 5kcal per 100ml, you can label it as 'zero'."**
1. The magic of "rounding" permitted by law
In Japan's food labeling standards, the following rules are established:
"Non," "Zero," "None": Labeling is OK if it's less than 5kcal per 100ml
"Low," "Light," "Reduced": Labeling is OK if it's 20kcal or less per 100ml
In other words, even if a 500ml plastic bottle contains 24.5kcal, the manufacturer can proudly write "zero calorie" on it.
"Is that all?" you might think, but every little bit adds up. The assumption that "it's zero, so it's infinitely safe" is actually a little dangerous.
2. The trade-off between "taste" and "numbers"
Why go to such lengths to stick to "zero"? It's because consumers are strongly attracted to the word "zero."
Originally, if you try to make calories completely zero, the taste becomes increasingly unnatural. Therefore, manufacturers leave a tiny amount of calories (naturally derived ingredients or sweeteners) and by pushing the "limit of labeling rules," they achieve both "deliciousness" and the "zero brand".
This can be called a "legal presentation technique" born from corporate effort.
3. Kuro no Ichigo's infusion of soul
Now, this is where the "Kuro-style" main point comes in.
This mechanism of "zero calorie" actually has something in common with how we "present our achievements."
For example, suppose someone claims to have a "monthly income of 1 million!" as a side business. But if you look closely at the details, is it "a momentary peak achieved only once," or "a profit of 10,000 with 990,000 in expenses"?
Don't be deceived by the strong word "zero (achievement)" on the surface.
What's important is the ability to read the "5kcal (the real substance)" behind it.
Conversely, when we become the ones sending out information, using strong words to gather attention is a valid strategy, but if it isn't accompanied by "sincere substance" behind it, you will inevitably make the reader feel a "bad aftertaste" someday.
In conclusion
'Zero calorie' is a convenient tool.
However, there is always a 'small amount of energy' and 'corporate intent' hidden behind it.
Instead of just skimming the surface of words, let's cultivate an 'observational eye' that looks at the back of the package.
Now, what is the actual calorie content of that 'zero (achievement)' you believe in?
See you in the next article 😌
#KuroNoIchigo #ZeroCalorie #FoodLabeling #DietTrap #BusinessThinking #Essence #DailyPost