The Establishment of Nutrient Profiles for Solid Pre-packaged Food in China

Abstract

Objectives: To provide scientific and practical criteria for Nutrient Profiles (NP) in China in order to evaluate the overall nutritional quality of solid pre-packaged food according to their nutrient composition. Methods: Based on data obtained from a survey of experts’ grading of foods available in China, a NP model was established, which covered scope of application, choice and balance of nutrients, choice of benchmarks and algorithm used.  Results: A NP model for solid foods was established as a scoring model, the reference amount was 100 g. The recommended intake standards were Nutrient Reference Value (NRV) in labeling regulation. Nutrients taken into account included qualifying nutrients (dietary fiber, vitamin C) and disqualifying nutrients (total fat, saturated fatty acid (SFA), sodium). A total score was calculated as (score of dietary fiber + score of vitamin C) – (score of total fat + score of SFA + score of sodium). Foods with a total score ≤-5were qualified as "less healthy", a score of -4 ≤ total score ≤ 2 was "intermediate" and a total score ≥3 indicated "healthier". Conclusion: A NP model for pre-packaged foods in China was established that can be used to assess and compare the impact of different foods on diet, and help decide which pre-packaged foods are qualified to carry nutrition and health claims.