Understanding the Nutri-Grade System
The Nutri-Grade marking system was introduced by the Singapore Health Promotion Board (HPB) to help consumers identify healthier beverage options at a glance. The system assigns a color-coded grade from A to D based on the beverage's sugar and saturated fat content, with A being the healthiest and D being the least healthy. This initiative aims to address the rise in diet-related chronic conditions like diabetes linked to excessive sugar intake. The Nutri-Grade system is set to expand in mid-2027 to include other food products, like cooking oils and sauces, and will also consider sodium content.
A beverage's overall Nutri-Grade is determined by the less favorable grade between its sugar and saturated fat levels. While labels for Grade A and B are optional, those for Grade C and D are mandatory. Advertising is also restricted for Grade D beverages.
Which Nutri-Grade is good?
To make the healthiest choices, opt for beverages with the lowest Nutri-Grade. Grade A is the best, followed by Grade B. It's recommended to limit or avoid drinks with Grade C and D labels due to their higher sugar and saturated fat content. Choosing A or B grades can help reduce health risks associated with high consumption of these nutrients, such as diabetes and heart disease. While plain water is the ideal choice, Nutri-Grade A and B products offer healthier alternatives when selecting other beverages.
Decoding the Grade Tiers
The Nutri-Grade system uses specific thresholds for sugar and saturated fat content per 100ml to determine each grade:
- Grade A (Dark Green): The healthiest option, with ≤ 1g sugar, no added sweeteners, and ≤ 0.7g saturated fat.
- Grade B (Light Green): A good choice, containing > 1g to 5g sugar and > 0.7g to 1.2g saturated fat.
- Grade C (Orange): Indicates moderate levels, with > 5g to 10g sugar and > 1.2g to 2.8g saturated fat.
- Grade D (Red): The least healthy option, with the highest levels (> 10g sugar and > 2.8g saturated fat).
Comparing Nutri-Grade Tiers
This table summarizes the sugar and saturated fat content thresholds for each Nutri-Grade per 100ml:
| Nutri-Grade | Colour | Sugar Content (per 100ml) | Saturated Fat Content (per 100ml) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Dark Green | ≤ 1g | ≤ 0.7g |
| B | Light Green | > 1g to 5g | > 0.7g to 1.2g |
| C | Orange | > 5g to 10g | > 1.2g to 2.8g |
| D | Red | > 10g | > 2.8g |
Making Smarter Selections at Food and Beverage Outlets
Nutri-Grade labels are also applied to freshly prepared drinks and are displayed on menus. For drinks with add-ons like bubble tea, the sugar content of toppings is also indicated. Choosing "Siu Dai" options, which are becoming more common, often means selecting a Nutri-Grade B drink instead of a sweeter alternative.
Conclusion: Which Nutri-Grade is good for your health?
Nutri-Grade A is the healthiest choice, followed by B, due to lower sugar and saturated fat. Limiting C and D is recommended. Using these labels on packaged and fresh drinks helps manage intake. More information is available on the {Link: Health Promotion Board's website https://www.hpb.gov.sg/healthy-living/food-beverage/nutri-grade}.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nutri-Grade?
The Nutri-Grade is a mandatory label in Singapore for beverages indicating sugar and saturated fat content.
How is a beverage's Nutri-Grade determined?
The grade is based on the less favorable grade between its sugar and saturated fat levels.
Are Nutri-Grade A and B labels mandatory?
No, they are optional, while C and D are compulsory.
Can Nutri-Grade D beverages be advertised?
Advertisements for Grade D beverages are prohibited.
Does Nutri-Grade apply to freshly prepared drinks?
Yes, since December 2023, and displayed on menus.
What about Nutri-Grade for other foods?
From mid-2027, the system extends to certain foods like cooking oils and sauces, including sodium.
Are all Nutri-Grade A and B drinks necessarily the healthiest?
Plain water is best. These grades are healthier but don't all carry the 'Healthier Choice' symbol.
