Food scales are an important kitchen tool for measuring ingredients precisely when cooking and baking. Whether you’re following a recipe or tracking calories, using the right scale and technique ensures accuracy. Reading a food scale properly takes some practice, but is easy to learn.
Quick tips for reading a food scale:
- Place the container or food on the center of the weighing platform.
- Allow the display to reset to zero before adding items.
- Add items gently and wait for the number to stabilize.
- Read the display at eye level for best accuracy.
- Note the unit of measurement – ounces or grams.
- Look for a tare button to subtract container weight.
- Only the stabilized number is the true measured weight.
With some basic knowledge about scale features and display readings, measuring food weights will become second nature. Continue reading for more detailed steps and tips for success.
Understand scale types
Food scales come in a variety of styles, with mechanical or digital displays. Here are the main types of food weighing scales:
Mechanical scales
Mechanical scales operate using springs and levers to display weight. The weight readout is indicated by where a needle points on a numbered dial or circular face. Mechanical scales require careful handling to avoid knocks that could affect calibration. Weights must be read by sighting the needle position.
Digital scales
Digital food scales show weight on an electronic display, such as an LCD screen. Buttons allow you to operate functions like unit conversion or tare weight. Digital scales offer precise readout of weights and typically have a higher weighing capacity than mechanical scales.
Body analyzers
Some digital scales are designed to measure body composition, calculating metrics like body fat and muscle mass percentage. These typically operate using bioelectrical impedance analysis and should only be used for standing on, not weighing food.
Precision scales
For very precise weighing, such as small amounts of ingredients for baking or chemicals, precision scales are used. These measure to a higher degree of accuracy, down to just a few decimal places. Precision scales have a lower capacity than standard kitchen scales.
Hybrid scales
Some digital scale models also incorporate mechanical elements. Weight measurements are determined electronically but displayed on a physical dial or lever arm for easy viewing while cooking.
The key considerations when purchasing a scale for food include weighing capacity, graduation intervals, units available, and display size. Consider the types of food to be weighed and degree of precision needed when selecting a scale.
Understand units of measurement
Food scales typically measure weight in either imperial or metric units:
Imperial units
The most common imperial units are ounces (oz) and pounds (lb). Ounces are divided into 16ths for more precision. Fractional ounces allow measuring small amounts down to 1/8 oz or even 1/16 oz.
Metric units
For metric units, the most common are grams (g) and kilograms (kg). 1 kg equals 1000 g. Gram measurements commonly show decimal places for precise weights. Scales often measure down to the nearest whole gram, 0.1 g, or 0.01 g.
When purchasing a scale, check what units it displays. Many scales allow toggling between imperial and metric modes. Units are selected using a button or switch on the scale.
The scale readout during and after weighing indicates the current unit. Be sure to note if it shows oz, lb, g, or kg to interpret the displayed number properly.
Learn scale features
While all scales are used to measure weight, specific features can vary. Becoming familiar with these will help you operate scales confidently:
Weighing surface
This is the flat platform where containers and ingredients are placed. Look for a large enough space to weigh items easily. Surfaces may be removable or integrated. Some are curved for cradling bowls, with flat tops better for setting plates.
Display
The display shows the current weight and scale status. Digital displays will clearly show numbers changing in real time during weighing. Optimal displays are angled for easy viewing while cooking. Larger displays are easier to read than small numbers. Look for a bright or backlit display if weighing in dim light.
Buttons
Buttons allow operation of functions like turning the scale on/off, changing units, zeroing or taring the scale, and other mode changes. Common buttons are:
- On/Off – Turns power on or off.
- Units – Changes displayed units between ounces, grams, etc.
- Zero/Tare – Resets display to zero or tares container.
- Mode – Changes operating modes if available.
Refer to your scale manual for specifics on the functions of buttons. Buttons should have clear markings.
Level indicator
For accurate weighing, scales need to be level. Some models have a small bubble level built in. This lets you check that the scale is properly balanced before use.
Auto-off
To preserve battery life, most digital scales automatically power off after a brief period of inactivity. This time duration varies, but is commonly about 1-5 minutes.
Removable components
Some scales allow removal of weighing platforms or bowls for cleaning. Check that all parts fit securely in place before use. Components should align properly with the display.
Capacity indicator
Scales have a set maximum capacity or weight limit. Exceeding this strains the internal sensor. Some displays visually indicate when the capacity is nearing the limit or is overloaded.
Learning the available features of your scale helps optimize functionality and precision when weighing foods.
Prepare scale for use
Before starting to measure ingredients, take a few steps to prepare your food scale:
Install or check batteries
Scales with digital displays require batteries to operate. Make sure batteries are fresh or replace low ones for clear readouts. Have spare AAA or button cell batteries on hand.
Position on a level, stable surface
For accurate results, scales need a solid, vibration-free base. Set your scale on a level kitchen counter away from edges. Check the scale’s level indicator and adjust the feet if needed.
Check for obstructions underneath
Look under the weighing platform to be sure no food or other objects are caught underneath. Remove any debris or crumbs to avoid interference.
Zero the scale
Turn the scale on and allow it to calibrate. The readout may flash zeros or the capacity amount. When it stabilizes, press the Zero or Tare button to reset the displayed weight to 0 before weighing items.
Select unit mode
Decide whether to weigh in metric (grams) or imperial (ounces) units. Use the Units button to toggle to the desired measurement mode for your recipe.
The scale is now ready to precisely measure your ingredients!
Basic techniques for weighing food
Follow these best practices when using your food scale:
1. Place item or container gently
Set the plate, bowl, or food you are weighing in the very center of the weighing surface. Place it gently without jarring the scale.
2. Allow time for readout to stabilize
The display will fluctuate briefly right after placing an item. Let the numbers settle before reading the measurement. Rushing may result in an inaccurate weight.
3. Read weight at eye level
Bend down or crouch to check the scale readout at eye level for the most accurate reading of the measurement. Avoid viewing angles when the numbers could display differently.
4. Use tare feature as needed
If weighing multiple ingredients in the same container, press Tare between additions to reset to zero. This removes the container weight and provides just the amounts added.
5. Handle gently when removing
When you remove a plate or food after weighing, lift it gently and evenly to avoid rocking the scale. Never grab one side hastily.
6. Check readout returns to 0
Before weighing the next item, allow the scale display to return to a zero reading. Press Tare again if needed to reset. The zeroed scale is ready for the subsequent ingredient.
7. Close containers before taring
When using a container that will be moved after weighing, close or replace lids before taring to remove its exact weight. This provides the true net weight of what was added.
8. Clean scale surfaces as needed
Keep weighing platforms and bowls free of residue. Clean the scale with a soft cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Check under weighing plates and make sure components are dry before use.
Consistently following these simple habits will help ensure you get precise, accurate measurements with your food scale.
Interpreting scale numbers and readings
Understanding how to read the numbers displayed on a food scale takes a little experience. Consider these tips:
– Stabilized vs. fluctuating
Only use the displayed number when it has stabilized for a few seconds. Fluctuating numbers mean the weight isn’t yet settled. Let the readout come to rest before reading.
– Whole vs. decimal numbers
Scales may show weight in either whole numbers or to fractions of units, depending on their precision level. Know if the display will read to decimal places and hundredths of units.
– Underweight flashing
If your container or food is under the minimum weight the scale can detect, it may flash a zero weight. Add more of the item to register on the scale.
– Overweight error
Exceeding the scale’s maximum capacity can overload it. You may see an error message or flashing numbers. Remove some items to avoid damaging the internal sensor.
– Units toggle
Be aware of which units the scale is set to – ounces or grams. If you toggle units, the weight will convert to display in the newly selected units.
– Negative weights
Displaying a negative number implies the scale was tared but more weight was removed. Check whether you need to reset tare to zero the readout.
Learning to properly read weights takes practice. Consult your scale user guide and use care when making adjustments during the weighing process.
Troubleshooting scale issues
If your food scale isn’t functioning properly, a few quick checks can help identify commonly problems:
Scale won’t turn on
– Check batteries are installed correctly and have sufficient charge.
– Inspect battery contacts for damage or corrosion.
– Try replacing batteries with brand new ones.
Displayed weight fluctuates
– Make sure the weighing surface is clean.
– Check that the scale is placed on a level, vibration-free location.
– Determine if objects underneath are interfering.
– If using a removable plate, check that it’s correctly fitted.
Numbers don’t display accurately
– Look for level bubble to verify the scale is properly balanced. Adjust feet as needed.
– Remove any items inside or under the scale that could affect calibration.
– Test performance by weighing a calibration weight. If off significantly, the scale may need servicing.
Buttons don’t respond
– Confirm batteries have adequate power.
– On digital scales, check for condensation or water damage inside areas with buttons.
– Test with gentle presses; rapid pushing can fail to register.
Resolve simple issues like dead batteries yourself. For other problems, search the manufacturer’s website for customer support information or device warranty. With careful use and maintenance, a quality food scale will deliver accurate ingredient measurements for years of cooking.
Conclusion
Learning how to properly use and read a food scale takes some practice, but following basic techniques will quickly build your skills. With the right scale features and settings, consistent zeroing, level placement, gentle handling, and care when adding and removing items, you’ll be a food scale expert in no time. Reading weights accurately just takes familiarity with your scale’s display and units. Mastering this essential kitchen tool provides precision to simplify recipes and improve your cooking results.
