What is Nutri-Score and how is it calculated?
Nutri-Score is a voluntary, front-of-pack labeling system adopted by several European countries to provide an easy-to-understand visual summary of a product's nutritional quality. Using a five-level, color-coded scale from A (highest quality) to E (lowest quality), the grade is based on a formula weighing favorable and unfavorable components per 100g or 100ml.
The Nutri-Score algorithm: A balancing act
The calculation gives 'negative' points for elements to limit and 'positive' points for elements to favor. Negative point elements include energy, total sugars, saturated fatty acids, and sodium. Positive point elements include protein, dietary fiber, fruits, vegetables, pulses, and nuts. The final grade is determined by the total score.
The good and the bad: Is Nutri-Score truly useful?
Nutri-Score is seen by some as a valuable public health tool for simplifying nutritional choices, while others highlight its flaws.
The arguments for Nutri-Score
Nutri-Score offers easy comparison of similar products, helping consumers quickly identify healthier options. It has also encouraged some manufacturers to reformulate products to achieve better scores. Studies suggest it can be effective in guiding healthier choices and is linked to lower risks of chronic diseases. Consumer awareness and understanding are generally high in implementing countries.
The arguments against Nutri-Score
Critics argue the system oversimplifies nutrition and can create misleading comparisons between different food categories. It doesn't account for food processing, additives, or artificial sweeteners. The per-100g basis can be misleading for products consumed in small portions. Healthy foods naturally high in fat, like nuts, may receive poor scores. The system has also faced industry opposition, particularly regarding traditional products.
Comparison: Nutri-Score vs. Whole Foods
Comparing Nutri-Score ratings for processed versus whole foods reveals some limitations, as shown in the table below:
| Product | Nutri-Score | Reasoning | Important Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen French Fries | A | Based on 100g of frozen product (potatoes, very low fat). | Score doesn't account for deep-frying process, which significantly increases fat and calorie content. |
| Olive Oil | C | Based on 100g (high fat content). | High score is due to high caloric density, but doesn't reflect the significant health benefits of its unsaturated fats. |
| Diet Cola | B | Based on 100ml (zero sugar, low calories). | Does not account for artificial sweeteners or other additives, which some studies suggest have negative health effects. |
| Wholemeal Bread | A | Good fiber and low sugar content. | Correctly identifies a healthy staple food. |
| Cheddar Cheese | D/E | High saturated fat and salt content. | While high in calcium and protein, the algorithm penalizes it for fat and salt. |
| Canned Sardines in Olive Oil | C | Penalized for high fat and salt content. | Doesn't adequately reflect the omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients in the fish. |
| Plain Water | A | The benchmark for healthy drinks. | The only beverage to consistently receive an 'A'. |
Moving beyond the score: The bigger picture
Nutri-Score is a tool, not a complete nutritional guide. While useful for comparing similar packaged items, it shouldn't replace a comprehensive understanding of nutrition. Focusing solely on the score might lead consumers to choose ultra-processed items over nutrient-dense whole foods. Consumers should consider their overall diet, portion sizes, and frequency of consumption. Nutri-Score doesn't apply to unprocessed foods like fresh produce or meat.
Conclusion: A helpful but imperfect guide
Nutri-Score has meaning as a scientifically based tool for comparing processed products within the same food category, particularly for consumers with limited nutritional knowledge. It has encouraged recipe improvements and influenced consumer choices in some contexts. However, its limitations in accounting for processing, healthy fats, and dietary context mean it should be used cautiously. Relying only on Nutri-Score can be misleading. The best approach is to use it for comparing similar packaged items while prioritizing whole foods and a balanced diet.
For further reading
For additional scientific perspectives and updates on the Nutri-Score algorithm, you can visit the official site of Santé publique France, the agency that developed the system: Santé publique France
Is the Nutri-Score an accurate reflection of a product's healthiness?
No, Nutri-Score is not a perfect indicator as it doesn't consider processing, additives, or healthy nutrients. It focuses on sugar, salt, saturated fat, calories, protein, and fiber per 100g, which can sometimes be misleading.
Why does olive oil have a lower Nutri-Score than some diet sodas?
Olive oil often scores lower (C) than diet sodas (B) because Nutri-Score is based on energy density per 100g. Olive oil is calorie-dense due to being fat, while diet sodas have zero calories and sugar, despite lacking nutritional value.
Does a poor Nutri-Score mean I should never eat that food?
No, a poor score means the food is higher in fat, sugar, or salt and should be eaten in moderation. Foods like cheese can still be part of a balanced diet in appropriate portions.
Is the Nutri-Score mandatory on food packaging?
No, it's currently voluntary. If a company adopts it, they must use it for all products under that brand in participating countries.
What factors are not included in the Nutri-Score calculation?
Factors not included are food processing, additives, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, pesticides, and portion size.
Can I compare different types of products using the Nutri-Score?
It's best for comparing similar products within the same category. Comparing items across categories, like olive oil and diet soda, can be misleading.
How does the Nutri-Score influence food manufacturers?
It has encouraged some to reformulate recipes to improve scores. However, some have also withdrawn due to algorithm changes and unfavorable ratings.
