Net weight (jìng zhòng) refers to the weight of a product itself, excluding any packaging, containers, or added materials. The character 净 (jìng) means 'pure,' 'clean,' or 'net' — indicating what remains after impurities or extras are removed. The character 重 (zhòng) means 'weight' or 'heaviness.' Together, they literally mean 'pure weight' — the actual weight of the contents alone. This term is widely used on food packaging, pharmaceutical labels, industrial goods, and agricultural products, especially where precise measurement matters for safety, trade, or regulatory compliance.

In daily life, you’ll see jìng zhòng printed prominently on bags of rice, cans of pet food, or boxes of frozen meat. It contrasts directly with 毛重 (máo zhòng), meaning 'gross weight' — the total weight including packaging. Understanding this distinction helps consumers compare value, calculate shipping costs, or follow recipes and dosing instructions accurately.