A novel food processing-based nutrition classification scheme for guiding policy actions applied to the Australian food supply

• DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1071356
• Publication Date: 2023-01-20T07:18:02Z
• Authors: Sarah Dickie; Julie Woods; Priscila Machado; Mark Lawrence
• Keywords: Classification scheme; Nutrition facts label; Cohen's kappa

Unhealthy diets are a leading risk factor for non-communicable diseases and negatively impact environmental sustainability. Policy actions recommended to address dietary factors, such as restrictions on marketing front-of-pack labelling, informed by nutrition classification schemes (NCSs). Ultra-processed foods associated with adverse population planetary health outcomes, yet the concept is rarely incorporated in policy actions. This study aims develop novel food processing-based scheme guiding A secondary aim validate classifying beverage items Australian supply (face validity) comparing them classifications of existing NCSs (convergent validity). Two versions model were developed, beverages two steps, first using NOVA system secondly applying upper thresholds added free sugars sodium, producing binary output either healthy or unhealthy. All ( n = 7,322) dataset combining Food Composition Database (AUSNUT 2011–2013) Mintel’s Global New Product (2014–2019) classified models. The same was also Health Star Rating (HSR), Dietary Guidelines (ADGs), Pan American Organization’s Nutrient Profile Model (PAHO NPM), scheme, pairwise agreement between all models determined (using Cohen’s Kappa coefficient). higher proportion categories consistent patterns that positive fruits, vegetables, eggs healthy. And clear majority confectionery, snack foods, convenience showed substantial PAHO NPM, fair ADGs slight moderate HSR system. NCS level processing nutrient criteria presents valid alternative methods classify potential individual purposes.