How to choose a food scale

How to Choose a Food Scale
    

A food scale can be very helpful when focusing on portion control for weight loss. There are many scales available, and it can be overwhelming picking the "best" one. So how do you choose the right food scale for your needs when considering function, cost, and ease of use?

Benefits of a food scale

1. A food scale can give you an accurate measurement of what you are eating. Think about the last time you tried to measure a cup of cooked pasta– it can be very confusing about how much pasta fits into a one cup measuring cup. You will often have more pasta than indicated on the pasta box (meaning more calories). However if you measure it on a scale, you will get a true serving size measurement. This is possible because all food labels are required to provide measurements in grams. This is the method of measurement on a food scale.
2. A food scale will help you to get a better visual idea of portion sizes. This will be helpful when you are eating out, or do not have time to measure/weigh your food.

Picking a scale to purchase

1. Food scales range in price from a few dollars up to over $100.
2. You can purchase a mechanical scale which will only cost a few dollars, but may wear out after many uses and become less accurate. Therefore, mechanical scales will likely cost less, but may not last as long.
3. A second option is a digital scale. Most digital scales are accurate with measurement. The basics of most digital scales are the same. The prices range with all the extra's that they provide. Some scales are more stylish, can handle more weight, and/or offer more functions.
4. A third option is a digital nutrition scale. This is a digital scale that will weigh your food and also provide nutrition information including calories, protein, fat, sodium, etc.
5. When purchasing a scale it is important to consider the price, ease of use, food basket size, how easy it is read the numbers, extra functions, and ease of cleaning.

Some Food Scale Recommendations

1. EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale: $25 – converts from grams to ounces easily,
2. OXO Good Grips Food Scale with Pull-Out Display: $50 –Stainless steel platform can be removed to be easily cleaned.
3. Taylor Biggest Loser 6.6 pound kitchen scale with glass platform $12.50