Nutri-Score, introduced in 2018, gives an idea of the more or less healthy character of a food. It is based on the number of calories, the amount of sugars, saturated fats, salt, protein, fiber, fruits and vegetables. The algorithm behind these scores – ranging from A (healthiest) to E (least healthy) – is currently being scrutinized by a team of specialists, and revised to better match dietary recommendations in vigor.
It was decided to tighten the threshold between categories A and B by 1 point. As a result, fewer products will end up in the healthiest category. In addition, nuts and seeds were moved from the category of fruits and vegetables to that of fats and oils and a distinction was introduced between red and processed meat on the one hand and poultry on the other. An additional distinction has also been added in the fish category, so now oily fish will also receive a higher score.
This is also the case with certain oils, such as olive oil. A possible adjustment of the beverage category is still envisaged by the end of the year. The new guidelines will then be rolled out, but sufficient transition time will be provided for all manufacturers to have time to adapt their packaging. The Nutri-Score label is used in seven European countries: Belgium, Germany, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland. In Belgium, it is not compulsory.
