Since its launch in February 2021 by the transnational governance body, the scientific committee—composed of independent experts—has been evaluating the Nutri-Score algorithm on behalf of the steering committee. It considers the current algorithm to be effective. Nevertheless, based on robust scientific evidence and requests from stakeholders, the Scientific Committee has identified priority areas for enhancing the effectiveness of the Nutri-Score algorithm.

Proposed changes to the Nutri-Score algorithm for foods

In its June 2022 report, the Scientific Committee proposes modifications to the algorithm for solid foods to improve Nutri-Score’s ability to distinguish the nutritional quality of products within certain food groups, in better alignment with the main dietary recommendations adopted by Member States and Switzerland. These food groups include fats, including vegetable oils; fish and seafood; cereal products, particularly bread; and dairy products, including cheese. While beverages have also been identified as a food group likely to be subject to algorithm updates, the Scientific Committee’s related proposals will be released in late 2022. Updating the Nutri-Score algorithm will help achieve the following key objectives in better alignment with dietary recommendations:

Steering Committee Decision on the Initial Proposals for Nutri-Score Updates

In accordance with the steering committee’s mandate, the seven countries involved in the governance of Nutri-Score met on July 26, 2022, to issue an opinion on the proposals for changes to the Nutri-Score algorithm for foods, proposed by the scientific committee and based on robust scientific evidence. Given the positive impact of these changes on the classification of foods by Nutri-Score, in line with dietary recommendations, the Steering Committee voted in favor of adopting these updates to the calculation algorithm for solid foods.

Next Steps

The steering committee’s decision to adopt the proposals and the publication of the scientific report on the algorithm update for solid products constitute the first step in the update process. The next step finalizing the complete evolution of the algorithm will take place at the end of 2022 with proposals to revise the algorithm for beverages.
The implementation of the new Nutri-Score algorithm in countries that have already adopted the logo will be established once the complete algorithm has been adopted by the steering committee. Starting from the date the new algorithm takes effect, operators will be given a sufficiently long period to implement the logo. To facilitate this rollout, support will be provided to operators in the various participating countries.