This new algorithm will enhance the effectiveness of Nutri-Score in ranking foods and beverages in line with the main dietary recommendations of European countries and guide consumers toward informed, health-promoting choices. The relevant authorities will pay particular attention to supporting the industry and consumers throughout this process of updating the Nutri-Score algorithm.

Further updates to the Nutri-Score algorithm for beverages

Following the adoption in July 2022 of changes to the Nutri-Score for foods, the Scientific Committee recommends in its recent report modifications to the algorithm specific to beverages based on robust scientific evidence and stakeholder requests. These changes are consistent with major public health priorities. The changes for beverages will help achieve the following main objectives in better alignment with dietary recommendations:

1. Harmonize the algorithm by ensuring a consistent classification of all beverages. Thus, milk, milk-based beverages, and plant-based beverages have been included in this algorithm, ensuring that skim and low-fat milk are classified in the most favorable categories and allowing for differentiation between different types of milk based on their fat content, as well as with sweetened milk-based beverages

2. Better differentiate the nutritional composition of beverages based on their sugar content, particularly for low-sugar beverages, and modify the algorithm to limit the substitution of sugars with sweeteners

3. Maintain the specific classification of water—the only beverage recommended without reservation by international organizations—in Category A

4. Maintain a broadly similar classification of fruit juices and nectars (including smoothies) compared to the current Nutri-Score algorithm, which experts deem appropriate based on the scientific literature

An effective calculation algorithm adapted to different European countries

Based on the independent and robust expert review process of the scientific committee and following the adoption of two reports by the steering committee, a new Nutri-Score calculation algorithm will thus be implemented, increasing the system’s effectiveness in classifying foods and beverages in line with the main dietary recommendations of various European countries:

The updates to Nutri-Score will enhance its ability to help consumers—including the most vulnerable—compare the nutritional content of foods and beverages. In this way, Nutri-Score will encourage healthier choices, working in tandem with nutrition policies aimed at preventing chronic diseases and combating obesity.

Next steps for implementing the new algorithm

Countries that have already rolled out Nutri-Score can now begin their national procedures to formally adopt the new calculation algorithm. To ensure consistency across different regions, countries have agreed to a coordinated implementation of the new algorithm once regulatory procedures are finalized by the various countries by the end of 2023. From that date, operators will have two years to adapt the Nutri-Score for their products. The changes to the algorithm for foods and beverages will be incorporated into the Nutri-Score usage guidelines accordingly. The scientific report and the usage guidelines are also being published today so that operators can prepare for the changes. In addition, the Q&A document and the Excel calculator are currently being revised by the participating countries and will be made available by summer. To facilitate this rollout, the competent authorities in the various participating countries will provide support to operators, and a specific communication campaign will be launched to explain these changes and assist consumers.