Following years of battling, the European Commission appears to have ditched plans to enforce its Nutri-score policy
The European Commission's plan to enforce the Nutri-score food labeling system across its 27 member states appears to have been abandoned, following years of significant opposition. The Nutri-score, a front-of-pack labeling system using a five-color scale from A to E, aims to guide consumers toward healthier food choices. However, its mandatory implementation has faced substantial challenges since its initial adoption in France in 2017.
During a recent press briefing, an EC spokesperson avoided confirming or denying the abandonment of the policy, highlighting the "complexities" and "inability to reach a common solution" among member states. This lack of clear support signals a significant shift in the EC's stance.
The Nutri-score system, based on the work of Serge Hercberg from Sorbonne Paris North University, has been adopted voluntarily by several countries, including France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain, and Portugal. However, it has also faced strong opposition, notably from Italy, which argues that the system discriminates against traditional Italian foods and threatens its cultural economy. Italian officials have hailed the EC’s apparent reversal as a "victory."
Furthermore, the system has been criticized by independent scientists and food companies like Danone for its limitations and algorithmic flaws. Critics argue that it can misrepresent the nutritional value of certain foods, potentially misleading consumers. For instance, some sugary drinks might receive a better score than healthier options like olive oil due to the system's focus on calorie content rather than overall nutritional quality.
Despite the EC’s apparent retreat, major food retailers like Nestlé and Lidl have reaffirmed their support for the Nutri-score system, emphasizing its importance in promoting healthier eating habits. These companies remain committed to its voluntary use, even as the EC’s mandatory rollout plans falter. Other companies, like Aldi and PepsiCo, have remained silent or declined to comment, reflecting the divided industry response.
The future of the Nutri-score remains uncertain. While the EC faces the difficult task of finding a universally acceptable nutritional labeling solution, the continued support from major industry players highlights the system's potential role in influencing consumer choices. The EC's focus is now shifted towards minimizing regulatory burdens while ensuring informed food choices and promoting pragmatic solutions for businesses. The situation underscores the complex interplay between public health objectives, economic considerations, and cultural sensitivities in shaping food policy across the European Union.
Source: foodnavigator.com
