No, 'diet' or 'lite' products are not always lower in calories. They may be reduced in fat, sugar, or sodium, but can sometimes compensate with other ingredients that increase the calorie count.
The terms 'diet' and 'lite' are often used in marketing to suggest a healthier option. However, these terms are regulated differently across various regions, and their meaning can be misleading. A 'lite' product might have fewer calories than the regular version, but it could also simply be lighter in color, flavor, or texture. Similarly, a 'diet' product might be lower in sugar or fat, but to compensate for the loss of flavor or texture, manufacturers might add other ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners, thickeners, or carbohydrates, which can still contribute to the overall calorie count. Therefore, it's crucial to always check the nutrition label to compare the calorie content and other nutritional information with the regular version of the product, rather than relying solely on the 'diet' or 'lite' label. A careful comparison of the nutrition facts panel will reveal the true caloric content and nutritional profile.
Don't be fooled by marketing terms! Always read the nutrition label and compare the serving size, calories, fat, sugar, and sodium content to make informed decisions about your food choices.