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Brussels, Belgium – A recent perspective article published in the journal Nature Food has reignited the debate surrounding front-of-pack labeling (FOPL) in the European Union, specifically focusing on the Nutri-Score system. While scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports its effectiveness in promoting healthier diets, the EU’s failure to implement a mandatory, harmonized FOPL system across its member states has raised serious concerns.
The article, authored by nutrition and public policy experts, highlights the decade-long journey of FOPL in Europe, emphasizing its potential as a cost-effective strategy to combat diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The World Health Organization (WHO) has long advocated for clear and understandable nutrition information to empower consumers and incentivize manufacturers to improve product quality.
Nutri-Score, a color-coded summary grading system, has emerged as a frontrunner, with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recognizing it as the only EU FOPL with “strong scientific evidence” of superiority. Studies by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) further validate its efficacy, projecting that EU-wide adoption could prevent nearly two million cases of diet-related NCDs by 2050.
Despite this robust scientific backing, Nutri-Score remains a voluntary scheme in countries like France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Spain. The original EU proposal for mandatory, harmonized FOPL by 2022 failed to materialize, a delay attributed to sustained lobbying efforts from segments of the food industry and certain member states.
The article accuses industry stakeholders of employing tactics such as funding studies to promote alternative labeling systems, like Italy’s NutrInform Battery, and discrediting Nutri-Score by questioning its algorithm and consumer acceptance. Researchers found that studies with conflicts of interest were 21 times more likely to report unfavorable results for the Nutri-Score. Additionally, industry arguments emphasizing economic concerns and “food patriotism” have further complicated the policymaking process.
The European Ombudsman has criticized the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Agriculture (DG AGRI) for disproportionate meetings with industry representatives, underscoring the need for “pro-active transparency” to mitigate corporate influence.
Experts argue that a mandatory, EU-wide Nutri-Score system would benefit all parties. Consumers would gain access to clear nutritional information, enabling informed choices. Food businesses would benefit from simplified regulations and fair competition. Member states would be supported in their efforts to combat obesity and chronic diseases.
The authors call for greater transparency, stricter regulations on conflicts of interest, and governance structures that prioritize independent science. They emphasize that overcoming corporate resistance and implementing a mandatory Nutri-Score system would represent a significant advancement in public health and consumer protection.
Journal reference:
Ten years of Nutri-Score front-of-pack nutrition labeling in Europe. Julia, C., Gokani, N., Hercberg, S., Garde, A. Nature Food (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s43016-025-01141-y, https://www.nature.com/articles/s43016-025-01141-y
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided in the referenced Nature Food article. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical or dietary advice. Readers should consult with qualified healthcare professionals for personalized guidance. The information presented reflects the views of the authors cited and may not represent the consensus of all experts in the field. The EU policy situation is dynamic and may change.
