Nutrient profiling
The Agency has developed a nutrient profiling model as a tool to differentiate foods which are high in fat, saturated fat, salt or sugar. The model is being used by media and communications regulator Ofcom to regulate the advertising and promotion of foods to children.
The Agency's model uses a simple scoring system which recognises the contribution made by beneficial nutrients that are important in a child's diet (protein, fibre, fruit and vegetables, and nuts) and penalises foods with ingredients that children should eat less of (saturated fats, salt and sugars).
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Key facts
In April 2007, media and communications regulator Ofcom introduced broadcasting restrictions to reduce significantly the exposure of children to television advertising of foods high in fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar.
Guide to using the nutrient profiling model
A nutrient profiling model has been developed by the Agency as a tool for categorising foods on the basis of their nutrient content.
Review of the model
When the FSA Board agreed, in October 2005, that the nutrient profiling (NP) model be recommended to media regulator Ofcom for use in development of further controls on the television advertising of foods to children. The Board also committed to reviewing the impact of using the model on the nature and balance of TV advertising to children one year from the date of use.
Nutrient profiling timeline
This document provides a timeline of the development of the nutrient profiling model for use in development of further controls on the broadcast advertising of foods to children.
Research and development of the nutrient profiling model
Find out more about the Agency's research to develop a nutrient profile model.