Nutri-Score – How does it work?
The Eclosia Group, through its production companies Avipro, New Maurifoods Ltd, Les Moulins de la Concorde, and Maurilait Production Ltée, has officially announced the launch of the Nutri-Score label on its locally produced food products starting in September 2023. This initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to consumer choice, transparency, and health in Mauritius.
Nutri-Score: A guide for informed food choices
Nutri-Score will be displayed on the front of product packaging from Avipro, New Maurifoods Ltd, Maurilait Production Ltée, and Les Moulins de la Concorde starting in September 2023 and throughout 2024. Consumers will first see the label on Régal products before it gradually expands to other products in the group, as updating packaging takes time.
Based on a five-color scale associated with letters—from dark green (A) to dark orange (E)—Nutri-Score provides a scientific and easy-to-understand indication of a food product’s nutritional quality. The main goal of this label is to help consumers make informed choices for a balanced diet. While Mauritians may already see this international label on certain imported products, Eclosia is the first local producer to implement it on Mauritian-made goods.
Commitment to continuous improvement
Cédric Lagesse, COO of the Eclosia Group, explains:
"Our decision to implement the Nutri-Score label stems from our commitment to continuous improvement and transparency. While this is not a regulatory requirement, we have chosen to take this step to provide consumers with clear and verifiable information about the nutritional value of our products."
The Nutri-Score labeling process
To obtain the Nutri-Score label, Eclosia Group products undergo a rigorous process. First, they must register with Santé Publique France, one of the European bodies that issue the label. Then, the nutritional profile of each food item is assessed based on various criteria, including fiber, vitamins, and protein content, as well as levels of salt, fat, and sugar. The final score determines the corresponding letter and color assigned to the product.
However, it is important to note that Nutri-Score does not indicate portion sizes or the best preparation methods. It remains up to the consumer to decide how often to consume a product based on its nutritional rating.
A thoughtful choice: Why Nutri-Score?
When asked why Eclosia chose Nutri-Score over other labels, Cédric Lagesse stated:
"Our choice was guided by a careful analysis of existing food labels across different countries. We opted for Nutri-Score due to its positive impact on consumer behavior in countries where it has been adopted. We believe that in Mauritius, greater awareness of nutrition and its impact on health is necessary, and Nutri-Score can play a key role in this process. Additionally, Nutri-Score is accessible, easy to understand, and allows for quick comparisons when shopping in stores. Since it is already featured on some imported products, many consumers are already familiar with it."
A transparent and collaborative future
The Eclosia Group is committed to gradually expanding the use of Nutri-Score across all its products, starting with everyday essentials. This initiative aims to equip Mauritian consumers with the necessary tools to make informed dietary choices. The group also hopes that other food producers will join this movement, promoting a common labeling system and making life easier for Mauritian consumers.
For more information about Nutri-Score: www.santepubliquefrance.fr