How facts are checked

Editorial methodology

The rules used to select, describe, cite and update information.

Last reviewed 14 September 2026Evidence status: overview

Overview

Reliable information begins with a clear source architecture. Each page is organised around a specific question, a concise direct answer, explicit definitions and traceable citations.

Key points

01

Evidence hierarchy

Original research, legislation and official assessments are preferred. Secondary sources are used for context, not as substitutes when primary material is available.

02

Product record policy

Product records require a verified identity, market, package size, composition, observation date and row-level source. Records are not published until those fields can be checked.

03

Update discipline

Time-sensitive claims carry review dates. Superseded values are corrected rather than silently blended with current data.

Direct answers

How can readers verify a statement?

Each substantive claim should identify its scope, use stable terminology and link to the original study, law or official assessment whenever available.

Source policy

Claims on this page should be connected to original research, legislation or an authoritative public-health assessment. For cited research and legal claims, see the topic-specific pages and their original source lists. This page describes the editorial approach; product records will appear only after verification.

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