As nutrition labeling policies come under renewed scrutiny, a group of leading scientists is proposing a new path forward – one that could help unify the often-divided perspectives on front-of-pack labeling. While systems like France’s revised Nutri-Score and the UK’s Traffic Light labels aim to guide consumer choices through simplified scores, critics warn such tools may oversimplify nutrition – and sometimes even mislead.

A team of scientists led by Professor Frédéric Leroy of Vrije Universiteit Brussel has introduced the “Nourishment Table,” a pioneering framework designed to bring more consensus to the labeling conversation. Rather than focusing narrowly on salt, sugar, and fat, the Nourishment Table emphasizes nutrient density, degree of processing, and food integrity – offering a fuller, more balanced picture of what truly constitutes nourishing food.

By shining a light on the benefits of minimally processed, whole foods and alerting consumers to the risks posed by ultra-processed products, the Nourishment Table addresses growing concerns about rising nutrient deficiencies and long-term food system sustainability. This comprehensive approach not only enriches the current debate around front-of-pack labeling but also helps bridge differing perspectives, offering a common ground where policymakers, researchers, and the food industry can collaborate to shape clearer, more meaningful nutrition guidance.

As governments and health authorities worldwide revisit the future of food labeling, the Nourishment Table invites everyone to reconsider what “good nutrition” means – and how best to communicate it to the public.