Does the Nutri-Score 2023 algorithm provide consistent classification across European food supplies? A cross-sectional study using branded food composition data from 14 countries
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: The Nutri-Score is a summary graded and colour-coded front of pack nutritional label providing an overall assessment of the nutritional value of prepacked products. While its 2023 update has been shown to be consistent with food-based dietary guidelines in the countries in which it has been adopted, its application has not been investigated in a wider geographical area. The objective of this study was to describe the classification of products according to the Nutri-Score in a large number of European Union (EU) countries. Methods: Branded food composition from 14 European countries was obtained from Euromonitor. Food products were classified according to the Nutri-Score algorithm, based on their content in energy (kJ/100 g), saturated fats (g/100 g), sugars (g/100 g), salt (g/100 g), proteins (g/100 g), dietary fibres (g/100 g) and fruit, vegetables and legumes (%/100 g). The distribution of the 2023 and 2015 Nutri-Score classifications was described across countries and food categories. Results: Overall, classification according to the 2023 Nutri-Score was consistent across 408 399 products from 14 countries and consistent with food-based dietary guidelines: >90% of frozen fruit and vegetables or >95% pulses were classified in the more favourable classes of the Nutri-Score (A/B), while >90% of discretionary foods such as chocolate confectionery and sweet biscuits were classified in the less favourable classes (D/E). Cross-country differences in classification reflected underlying variability in nutrient composition of products (eg, salt content in refined breads ranged from 1.05 to 1.23 g/100 g across countries). Conclusion: The Nutri-Score classification appeared consistent across a large geographical area, confirming its potential as an EU-wide front-of-package label. While some residual challenges remain for a limited number of specific product groups (eg, whole-grain pasta or rice), our findings indicate that the 2023 update represents a substantial improvement over the 2015 algorithm.
Source: BMJ Public Health
Institutions: Inserm, Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Nutritionnelle, Centre de Recherche Épidémiologie et Statistique, Haute École Léonard de Vinci, University Medical Center Utrecht, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Paderborn University, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Santé Publique France, Max Rubner Institut, Bern University of Applied Sciences, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Sciensano (Belgium)
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7213316106