A 'Nutri grading system' is a general term that most often refers to either the European Nutri-Score or Singapore's Nutri-Grade, both of which aim to inform consumers about the nutritional quality of food products through a simplified, color-coded label. Despite a similar name, they operate on different principles and apply to different products.
The European Nutri-Score System
Introduced in France in 2017, the Nutri-Score is a voluntary, five-level color and letter scale that provides a comprehensive assessment of a food product's overall nutritional quality per 100 grams or 100 milliliters. The scale ranges from dark green 'A' for the most nutritious products to dark orange 'E' for the least nutritious. This traffic-light system is now recommended in several European countries, including Belgium, Germany, and Spain.
How the Nutri-Score algorithm works
The system calculates a single score by balancing 'unfavorable' (energy, saturated fatty acids, sugars, salt) and 'favorable' (protein, dietary fiber, fruits, vegetables, nuts, certain oils) components per 100 grams or milliliters. A lower score indicates higher nutritional quality.
Singapore's Nutri-Grade System
Singapore's mandatory Nutri-Grade labeling system was implemented to address rising rates of diabetes and obesity, initially focusing on beverages. It expanded to freshly prepared drinks and is planned for other food items like sauces and instant noodles.
Grading for beverages
Nutri-Grade for beverages uses a four-tier, color-coded system based on sugar and saturated fat content:
- Grade A (Green): Lowest sugar and saturated fat (optional labeling).
- Grade B (Light Green): Low sugar and saturated fat (optional labeling).
- Grade C (Orange): Moderate sugar and saturated fat (mandatory labeling).
- Grade D (Red): Highest sugar and saturated fat (mandatory labeling and advertising restrictions).
Mandatory labeling for grades C and D applies to packaged and freshly prepared drinks.
Comparison of Nutri-Score and Nutri-Grade
To clarify the differences:
| Feature | European Nutri-Score | Singapore Nutri-Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Overall nutritional quality, balancing multiple factors. | Primarily sugar and saturated fat content. |
| Grading Scale | Five-tier scale (A to E). | Four-tier scale (A to D). |
| Rating Basis | Considers positive (fiber, protein, fruit) and negative (calories, sugar, fat, salt) components per 100g/ml. | Focuses on sugar and saturated fat levels per 100ml for beverages, plus sodium for other products. |
| Geographic Scope | Voluntary in several European countries. | Mandatory for specific product categories in Singapore. |
| Scope of Products | Wide range of packaged foods and beverages. | Initially beverages, with expansion to sauces, instant noodles, etc. |
Advantages and criticisms
Both systems effectively help consumers quickly identify and compare the nutritional quality of products. They also encourage manufacturers to improve product formulations.
However, criticisms include the potential for oversimplification of nutritional profiles and that comparisons should only be made between similar products. The specific calculation methods have also faced debate.
Conclusion
"Nutri grading system" refers to regional food labeling methods like the European Nutri-Score and Singapore's Nutri-Grade. Nutri-Score provides a broad nutritional assessment, while Nutri-Grade focuses on sugar and saturated fat in beverages. Both systems are useful tools for informed consumer choices and encouraging healthier products but should be used alongside comprehensive dietary understanding.
Learn more about Nutri-Grade's specific guidelines on the Health Promotion Board's official website.
