Nutri-Score: A Controversial Yet Crucial Tool for Public Health

Nutri-Score, the nutritional labeling system introduced in France in 2017, was designed to provide consumers with clear and easily understandable information about the nutritional quality of food products.

This system uses a color and letter scale, ranging from green (A) to red (E), to indicate the overall nutritional value of products.

However, in recent months, Nutri-Score has become the subject of controversy and intense debate. Le Monde reported that the implementation of a new version of Nutri-Score, initially scheduled for January 1, 2024, has been postponed.

The delay was attributed to a lack of political support and opposition from certain sectors of the food industry, particularly cheese producers, who argue that the updated scoring system would unfairly penalize their products.

Furthermore, in March 2025, the consumer rights organization Foodwatch criticized the French government for refusing to endorse the updated Nutri-Score, claiming the new version would assign lower ratings to dairy products.

Foodwatch emphasized that the government should follow scientific recommendations and prioritize public health over the interests of the food industry.

Despite these challenges, Nutri-Score has been adopted in several European countries and has been recognized for its role in promoting transparency and healthier food choices. However, opposition from major agri-food companies and the absence of a unified legislative framework at the EU level have hindered its mandatory implementation.

In conclusion, while Nutri-Score was developed to improve public health by providing accurate consumer information, its rollout has faced significant obstacles.

It is crucial that authorities and stakeholders work together to ensure that nutritional labeling systems serve the public interest and help reduce the prevalence of diet-related illnesses.