What is the Health Star Rating System?
First implemented in Australia and New Zealand in 2014, the Health Star Rating (HSR) is a voluntary front-of-pack labelling system for packaged food. The system is designed to give consumers a quick, easy-to-understand visual guide to the nutritional profile of a product, with a rating scale ranging from ½ to 5 stars. The general rule is simple: the more stars, the healthier the choice. The system was developed collaboratively by Australian and New Zealand governments, public health experts, and consumer groups. However, its voluntary nature has led to some criticisms, particularly concerning selective uptake by manufacturers who choose to display the ratings primarily on products that score well.
How a 5-Star Rating is Calculated
Unlike simply looking at a single nutrient, the HSR is the result of a complex algorithm that balances various factors. The calculation is based on an assessment of a product's nutritional profile per 100g or 100mL. It considers:
Negative Components (reduce the score)
- Energy (Kilojoules): The overall energy content of the food.
- Saturated Fat: Linked to increased risk of heart disease.
- Sodium: The salt content, which is associated with chronic diseases.
- Total Sugars: The total amount of sugar present.
Positive Components (increase the score)
- Fibre: An essential nutrient for digestive health.
- Protein: Important for building and repairing tissues.
- Fruit, Vegetable, Nut, and Legume (FVNL) Content: These ingredients boost the score, acknowledging their nutritional benefits. Minimally processed fruits and vegetables automatically receive a 5-star rating.
A product receives points for its positive components, which are then offset by points for its negative components. The final score determines the star rating.
The Meaning of 5 Health Stars
Achieving a 5-star rating means a packaged food has the most optimal nutritional profile compared to similar products within its category. This is the most crucial detail to remember. A 5-star cereal is the healthiest choice among cereals, but not necessarily healthier than fresh, unpackaged produce, which is assumed to be 5-star. The rating is designed to simplify choice at the supermarket shelf, guiding you towards a better option when comparing like with like. It is not, however, an absolute endorsement of unlimited consumption.
What 5 Health Stars is NOT
- A permission to over-consume: A high star rating does not give you a green light to eat a product excessively. Portion control and a balanced diet remain important.
- A comparison across categories: You cannot use the HSR to compare different types of foods, such as a breakfast cereal to a yoghurt. The algorithm is specifically calibrated for different food categories.
- An indicator of processing: A key criticism of the system is its failure to account for the degree of food processing. A heavily processed product, like a low-sugar lolly with added fibre, could technically score higher than a minimally processed product like plain full-fat yoghurt. The ingredients list is the best source of information for this.
Comparison: HSR vs. Other Nutritional Information
| Feature | Health Star Rating (HSR) | Nutrition Information Panel (NIP) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Quick, visual comparison of similar packaged foods. | Detailed breakdown of nutrient content, per 100g/mL and per serving. |
| Format | Simple star graphic on the front of the package. | Standardized table, typically on the back or side of the package. |
| Ease of Use | Very easy for a quick glance while shopping. | Requires more time to read and interpret data. |
| Comparison Scope | Best for comparing similar products (e.g., cereals vs. cereals). | Can be used to compare nutrients across different products, though not as simple. |
| Calculation Base | Algorithm balancing positive and negative nutrients. | Direct measurement of energy, fat, protein, carbs, etc.. |
How to Use Health Stars Effectively
To get the most out of the HSR system and make truly healthy choices, follow these simple tips:
- Compare like with like: Only use the star rating to compare similar products on the same shelf, such as different brands of baked beans or breakfast cereals.
- Aim for high ratings: When faced with a choice between two similar products, opt for the one with more stars. A rating of 3.5 stars or higher is generally considered a good choice.
- Check the full label: If you have concerns about ingredients, such as added sugars or additives, refer to the more detailed Nutrition Information Panel and ingredients list.
- Remember the bigger picture: The HSR system should be used as one tool among many. It's not a replacement for broader dietary guidelines that emphasise eating a balanced diet rich in fresh, unprocessed foods.
- Don't rely on it for all foods: The HSR system does not apply to unpackaged foods, fresh produce, or certain single-ingredient items. These are often the healthiest options and should make up the bulk of your diet.
Limitations and Criticisms of the System
Despite its intention to help consumers, the HSR system faces several valid criticisms:
- Voluntary participation: Because it is not mandatory, manufacturers can choose which products to label. This often means lower-scoring, less healthy options are not labeled, limiting consumers' ability to compare. Research has shown that uptake is significantly higher for products with more stars.
- The algorithm is not perfect: While based on nutritional science, the weighting of nutrients in the algorithm can produce anomalous results. Examples of processed foods scoring higher than minimally processed options have eroded consumer trust.
- Does not consider processing level: A major flaw is that the system does not account for the degree of food processing, a key factor in modern nutrition science.
- Conflicts of interest: Some critics point to industry involvement in the advisory panel that governs the system, questioning its impartiality.
Conclusion
A 5-star Health Star Rating is a valuable, quick-glance tool that signifies a product has the best nutritional balance when compared to its direct competitors. It is most useful as a comparative guide for similar packaged products. However, it is essential for consumers to understand the system's limitations, particularly its inability to account for processing levels and its voluntary application by manufacturers. By using the HSR in conjunction with the full Nutrition Information Panel and general healthy eating advice, you can make more empowered and informed decisions at the grocery store. For the official guide, visit the Health Star Rating System website.
