The coloured labelling to help people buy healthier products can be seen on more and more store shelves – from yoghurt to frozen pizza. Now a pioneer on the German market is putting the brakes on.
The manufacturer Danone is removing the Nutri-Score food logo from parts of its range following changes to the calculation model. From September onwards, it will be gradually removed from drinkable dairy products and plant-based drinks, the company announced. According to the new algorithm, they would be classified in the same category as soft drinks, although it has been basic scientific knowledge for decades that milk drinks and milk alternatives are seen as food. This would cause confusion among consumers and would lead to “completely absurd and no longer comprehensible Nutri-Score ratings,” said a spokesperson.
The changes to some calculations were decided last year by a steering committee of the states in which the voluntary logo can be used. Accordingly, milk, milk and plant-based drinks are also rated as drinks and no longer as general foods as before, as the Federal Ministry of Food explained after the scientifically developed changes. Water is still the only drink that can receive the best A rating.
The name of the label developed in France means something like “nutritional value score”. In addition to sugar, fat and salt, it also includes recommended elements such as fiber, protein or the proportion of fruit and vegetables. Points are awarded for the amounts per 100 grams. The result is a single overall value, which is shown on a five-point scale: from “A” on a dark green field for the most favorable balance, to a yellow “C” to a red “E” for the least favorable. The relevant field is highlighted. Danone was a pioneer in introducing the logo on the German market.
Source: Stern
