Understanding the Nutri-Score System in Switzerland
The Nutri-Score is a front-of-pack nutritional label that provides a visual summary of a food product's nutritional quality. The system uses a five-letter (A–E) and five-color (dark green to dark orange) scale to help consumers quickly compare similar foods. A dark green 'A' signifies a higher nutritional quality, while a dark orange 'E' indicates a lower nutritional quality. Switzerland officially adopted the voluntary label in 2019, joining several other European nations. The aim was to help consumers make more informed and healthier food choices with a quick glance at the packaging.
How the Nutri-Score Algorithm Works
The Nutri-Score is calculated per 100 grams or 100 milliliters of a food product. The calculation is based on a scientific algorithm that balances 'negative' and 'positive' nutritional components. Points are given for negative components like energy, saturated fatty acids, sugars, and salt, which should be limited. Points are subtracted for positive components like protein, dietary fiber, and the proportion of fruits, vegetables, pulses, nuts, and certain oils (rapeseed, walnut, and olive oil), which should be encouraged. The final score determines the letter and color rating. In January 2024, Switzerland and other participating countries implemented an updated algorithm based on recent scientific findings. This update aims to be stricter on less healthy items and more favorable towards healthier ones.
The Rise and Retreat of Nutri-Score in Switzerland
Since its adoption in 2019, Nutri-Score saw some implementation by retailers like Migros and Nestlé for their house brands. However, its voluntary nature has led to inconsistent use, and recently, major setbacks have occurred. In May 2024, Migros announced it would discontinue using Nutri-Score due to high costs and limited consumer benefit. Emmi followed suit for its Caffè Latte products. In May 2025, Nestlé also decided to remove Nutri-Score from its local Swiss brands, citing low adoption and reduced political support. These decisions significantly impact the label's visibility in Switzerland. The Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) noted concern that the label's utility diminishes when fewer products are included.
Benefits and Drawbacks of the Nutri-Score
Benefits:
- Simplifies Comparison: The visual system simplifies comparing the nutritional quality of similar products.
- Promotes Healthier Choices: It can help consumers, including those with limited nutritional knowledge, make healthier food selections.
- Encourages Reformulation: Manufacturers may be encouraged to improve product nutrition to achieve a better score.
- Science-Based: The algorithm is founded on scientific research and updated to align with health guidelines.
Drawbacks and Criticisms:
- Simplified Metrics: It has been criticized for being too simplistic and not considering factors like processing or sustainability.
- Penalizes Traditional Foods: Some traditional foods, like Swiss cheese, may receive lower scores due to natural nutrient content.
- Inconsistent Application: The voluntary nature results in inconsistent labeling across products.
- Limited Awareness: Consumer awareness in Switzerland remains relatively low.
- Risk of Misinterpretation: Comparing products from different categories can be misleading.
Comparing Nutri-Score and the Traditional Nutrition Table
| Feature | Nutri-Score | Traditional Nutrition Table |
|---|---|---|
| Information Type | Interpretive, summary of nutritional quality | Factual, detailed breakdown of nutrients |
| Format | Simplified color and letter scale | Standardized table with nutritional values |
| Placement | Front-of-pack | Usually on the back or side of the package |
| Ease of Use | High, for quick comparisons | Low, requires nutritional knowledge to interpret |
| Comparability | Good for similar products (e.g., cereals) | Poor for quick comparisons across products |
| Basis | Algorithm calculating 'positive' vs. 'negative' points | Absolute values per 100g/ml |
| Purpose | Guide towards healthier options within a category | Provide detailed, mandatory nutritional facts |
The Future of Food Labeling in Switzerland
The withdrawal of major retailers and ongoing debate highlight the challenges facing the voluntary Nutri-Score in Switzerland. Its effectiveness relies on widespread adoption, which is currently declining. While health professionals support it as a public health tool, its future in the Swiss market is uncertain. The controversy has prompted parliamentary discussion, potentially leading to clearer future food labeling regulations. The Swiss situation illustrates the complexities of implementing voluntary public health initiatives in a competitive market. For information on Swiss food safety regulations, consult the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) website.
Conclusion
The Nutri-Score in Switzerland is a voluntary, color-coded label designed to help consumers compare the nutritional quality of similar products. Supported by public health experts for its simplicity, it has also faced criticism from the food industry and agricultural sector. Recent withdrawals by major retailers have reduced its presence and created uncertainty about its future in the Swiss market. The ongoing debate will likely influence future nutritional labeling for Swiss consumers.
