We explain what this claim can mean, and what to look out for when reading food labels.
Cholesterol-free does not mean fat-free. Some products that highlight cholesterol-free are very high in fat and if you're interested in lowering your blood cholesterol levels, or keeping them down, watching the amount of saturated fat you consume is important.
Cholesterol only comes from animal fats. Some products have 'cholesterol-free' highlighted when they don't contain animal fats – and wouldn't be expected to! For example, most crackers don't contain animal fats, but some still make the 'cholesterol-free' claim. Often it tells you nothing in comparison to other similar products – don't be fooled.