What is the Nutri-Score?
A simple nutrition labeling system that helps you make healthier food choices at a glance
Best
Good
Fair
Poor
Bad
From dark green (A - healthiest) to red (E - least healthy)
Introduction to Nutri-Score
The Nutri-Score is a front-of-pack nutrition label that was developed by French public health authorities and is now used in several European countries. It provides a simple, color-coded grading system (A through E) that makes it easy to understand the nutritional quality of food products.
The score is calculated using a scientific algorithm based on the nutritional content per 100 grams or 100 milliliters of a product. It considers both positive and negative nutritional elements to give you an at-a-glance understanding of a product's overall nutritional value.
How Does Nutri-Score Work?
❌ Nutrients to Limit
These increase the score (worse):
- •Energy (calories) - Higher calories = higher score
- •Saturated fats - Bad fats that can raise cholesterol
- •Sugar - Added and natural sugars
- •Sodium (salt) - Can increase blood pressure
✅ Nutrients to Favor
These decrease the score (better):
- •Fiber - Aids digestion and health
- •Protein - Essential for body repair and growth
- •Fruits & Vegetables - Percentage of healthy ingredients
- •Nuts & Legumes - Healthy plant-based foods
📊 The Calculation:
Final Score = Negative Points - Positive PointsThe lower the final score, the better the nutritional quality. The score is then converted to a letter grade (A-E).
Understanding the Grades
Grade A - Excellent Nutritional Quality
Foods with the best nutritional profile. Rich in beneficial nutrients, low in elements to limit. Examples: vegetables, fruits, whole grains.
Grade B - Good Nutritional Quality
Good food choices with favorable nutritional balance. Examples: some dairy products, lean meats, certain prepared foods.
Grade C - Fair Nutritional Quality
Acceptable choices but consume in moderation. Balance of positive and negative nutrients. Examples: some breads, cereals, canned foods.
Grade D - Poor Nutritional Quality
Less healthy options, consume occasionally. Higher in calories, sugar, fat, or salt. Examples: processed meats, sugary snacks, some desserts.
Grade E - Bad Nutritional Quality
Least healthy options, limit consumption. High in unhealthy nutrients, low in beneficial ones. Examples: sodas, candy, chips, heavily processed foods.
Benefits of Nutri-Score
Easy to Understand
Simple color-coded system makes quick comparisons easy
Compare Products
Compare similar products and choose healthier alternatives
Science-Based
Developed by nutrition scientists and public health experts
European Standard
Officially adopted in France, Belgium, Germany, Spain, and more
Transparent
Clear methodology based on nutritional composition
Health Promotion
Encourages healthier eating habits and product reformulation
Important Things to Know
- ℹ️Compare within categories: Nutri-Score is most useful when comparing similar products (e.g., different cereals, different yogurts).
- ℹ️Not for all foods: Some foods like honey, olive oil, or butter naturally have lower scores but can be part of a healthy diet in moderation.
- ℹ️Per 100g/100ml: The score is calculated based on 100 grams or 100 milliliters, not per serving.
- ℹ️Part of balanced diet: Nutri-Score is a tool to help make choices, but overall dietary patterns matter most.
- ℹ️Voluntary system: Not all products display Nutri-Score, though its adoption is growing.
Calculate Nutri-Score for Your Products
Use our free calculator to determine the Nutri-Score of any food product
Try the CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
Who created the Nutri-Score?
The Nutri-Score was developed by Professor Serge Hercberg and his team at the French National Public Health Agency (Santé publique France) in collaboration with French and international nutrition scientists. It was officially introduced in France in 2017.
Which countries use Nutri-Score?
As of 2024, Nutri-Score has been officially adopted in France, Belgium, Germany, Spain, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. Many food manufacturers across Europe are voluntarily displaying it on their products.
Is Nutri-Score mandatory?
Currently, Nutri-Score is voluntary in most countries. Food manufacturers can choose to display it on their packaging. However, there are discussions about making it mandatory across the European Union in the future.
Can I trust Nutri-Score?
Yes, Nutri-Score is based on extensive scientific research and is endorsed by numerous health organizations and nutrition experts. However, it should be used as one tool among many for making informed food choices, not as the only criterion.