This study evaluates the validity of the Nutri-Score (2023 version) and the NewTools-score—a revised version adapted for Norway—using a reference standard created from healthiness rankings by 29 Norwegian nutrition experts. These experts rated 100 commonly consumed foods based on alignment with the Norwegian Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs). Results showed that both nutrient profiling models had high overall agreement with the expert assessments, with the NewTools-score displaying improved alignment across several food groups, particularly for refined vs. wholegrain products, fat content in dairy, and plant-based substitutes.
Key insights include:
• Nutri-Score showed good performance but had discrepancies, particularly for full-fat vs. reduced-fat dairy, refined vs. whole grain products, and certain fish and plant-based items.
• NewTools-score, tailored to align with Nordic nutrition priorities, had better agreement (47% of foods) and fewer large discrepancies (17% vs. 22% for Nutri-Score).
• Nutrition experts showed excellent agreement (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.98), validating the robustness of the reference standard.
• The study highlights the need to localize nutrient profiling systems to reflect regional dietary guidelines and food cultures for effective front-of-pack labeling.
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