Rasvavaba

Rasvavaba is the Estonian term for products that contain no fat or only trace amounts of fat. It is used on food labels to indicate a very low fat content and is common on marketing for items intended for fat-restricted diets, such as dairy products, spreads, and processed foods. The term translates to fat-free in English and is part of the broader system of nutrition and health claims on packaging.

Regulatory context is important for rasvavaba labeling. In Estonia and the European Union, fat-free claims are governed by EU food information rules. For a product to bear a rasvavaba label, its fat content must typically be no more than 0.5 grams per 100 grams of product, or per 100 milliliters for liquids. The claim must be accurate and not misleading, and it must be supported by the nutrition information panel and ingredient list.

Nutrition and health considerations accompany the label. Fat-free products can be high in sugar, starch, or salt to compensate for taste and texture lost when fat is removed. Fat is also a vehicle for fat-soluble vitamins, so extremely fat-free products can affect nutrient balance. Consumers should read the full nutrition information rather than relying solely on the rasvavaba claim.

Common examples include fat-free versions of milk, yogurt, ice cream, sauces, and baked goods. While rasvavaba products can fit certain dietary goals, they are not inherently healthier and should be chosen in the context of an overall balanced diet.