What is the difference between Nutri-Score A and E?

December 2, 2025 •

2 min read

Over 60% of European men are overweight, underscoring the importance of transparent food labeling systems like the Nutri-Score to guide healthier choices. Understanding the difference between Nutri-Score A and E is crucial for consumers seeking to quickly identify the nutritional quality of products at a glance. This color-coded rating helps simplify complex nutritional information found on packaging.

Quick Summary

This article explains the core distinctions between Nutri-Score A and E, detailing the nutritional components that influence each rating and how to use this information to compare products effectively. It outlines the positive and negative nutrient criteria considered in the algorithm and provides a clear comparative overview of the scoring system.

Key Points

Nutri-Score A: Highest nutritional quality, favorable balance of proteins, fiber, fruits, and vegetables vs. low sugar, salt, and saturated fats.
Nutri-Score E: Lowest nutritional quality, high in calories, saturated fat, sugars, and salt.
Algorithm Basis: Calculated by offsetting positive points for beneficial components against negative points for detrimental ones per 100g or 100ml.
Contextual Comparison: Best for comparing products within the same category, not different food types.
Encourages Better Formulations: Incentivizes manufacturers to improve product recipes for better scores.
Informed Decisions: Simplifies complex nutritional information with a color-coded scale for quick choices.

Demystifying the Nutri-Score System

The Nutri-Score is a voluntary front-of-pack food labeling system that translates a product's nutritional value into a simple, color-coded scale from A (dark green) to E (dark orange/red). Developed by independent scientists, this system aims to help consumers make more informed and healthier food choices, especially when comparing products within the same category. The score considers the product's composition per 100g/ml, balancing beneficial and detrimental nutrients.

The Calculation Algorithm: Positive and Negative Components

The Nutri-Score algorithm assigns points based on a food's 'unfavorable' and 'favorable' components.

**Unfavorable Components (get points):

**Energy (calories)
**Saturated fatty acids
**Sugars
**Sodium (salt)

**Favorable Components (reduce points):

**Proteins
**Fibre
**Fruits, vegetables, and pulses
**Nuts and specific healthy oils.

The final score determines the Nutri-Score letter and color.

Unpacking the Meaning of Nutri-Score A

A Nutri-Score of 'A' signifies the most favorable nutritional profile compared to similar foods. These items are high in positive components and low in negative ones, typically rich in fiber, protein, or contain significant fruits/vegetables. Examples include plain yogurts.

Characteristics of Nutri-Score A products:

High in protein and fiber.
Low in calories, saturated fats, sugars, and salt.
Often contain fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
Best nutritional option within their category.

Understanding the Implications of Nutri-Score E

A Nutri-Score of 'E' indicates the least favorable nutritional profile. These foods are high in calories, sugar, saturated fat, and salt. An 'E' suggests products for infrequent, small quantities. Examples include sugary snacks and fatty processed foods.

Characteristics of Nutri-Score E products:

High in calories, saturated fats, sugars, and salt.
Contain minimal beneficial ingredients.
Should be consumed sparingly.

Comparing Nutri-Score A and E: A Side-by-Side View

Comparing Nutri-Score A and E highlights their contrasting profiles and consumption recommendations:


Feature	Nutri-Score A	Nutri-Score E
Color	Dark Green	Dark Orange/Red
Nutritional Quality	Highest	Lowest
Positive Nutrients	High levels	Low or negligible
Negative Nutrients	Low levels	High levels
Health Guidance	Regular consumption	Very moderate or occasional consumption
Typical Examples	Plain yogurt, whole grain bread	Sugary desserts, high-fat snacks
Overall Impact	Positive contribution to a healthy diet	Higher risk if consumed regularly or in large amounts

Using the Nutri-Score Effectively

The Nutri-Score helps compare products within the same category, like cereals. It's not for comparing different items, such as olive oil and soda, and should complement broader dietary advice.

The system encourages manufacturers to improve formulations. Updates, like the one in 2023, align the algorithm with current science.

Conclusion

Nutri-Score A and E represent the best and worst nutritional profiles, respectively. A indicates a balance of beneficial nutrients low in those to limit, while E signifies high calories, sugars, fats, or salt. This distinction helps consumers make informed choices. For scientific validation, refer to the {Link: IARC website https://www.iarc.who.int/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/IARC_Evidence_Summary_Brief_2.pdf}.

Frequently Asked Questions

Points are awarded for negative components (calories, fats, sugar, salt) and subtracted for positive ones (fiber, protein, fruit/vegetables). The net score gives the grade.

An E indicates low nutritional quality, meant for moderate consumption. It's less favorable but not necessarily 'bad' or to be fully avoided.

Yes, it is voluntary for food producers. If used, it must be applied to all products under a registered brand.

Nutri-Score is most useful for comparing similar products within the same category, not different types like olive oil and prepared meals.

Several European countries use Nutri-Score voluntarily, including France, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland.

No, the standard algorithm focuses only on nutritional values per 100g/ml and does not account for processing level or additives.

The algorithm is updated based on scientific knowledge. A 2023 update led to stricter classifications for certain foods and drinks.