Nutrient profiling assessment of foods in an enclosed retail space reveals healthy and affordable options

M. Diamanti, E. Combet
2016 Proceedings of the Nutrition Society  
In 2003, a joint WHO/FAO expert consultation presented the critical role of some nutrients in the increase of chronic diseases (1) . Nevertheless nutrient profiling models have been developed that classify foods according to their nutrient composition (2) . These classifications can be an important part of policies that target to promote healthy eating and decrease diet-related chronic diseases. Considering the lunch meal significance during the day, this study assessed the nutrient profile and
more » ... availability of lunch meal components (as individual foods) in a food court. As food choices are influenced significantly by food cost and availability, the association between lunch components score and their cost was also evaluated. Two researchers recorded food availability across three outlets in an enclosed food court, during a period of two weeks (November 2015), using a standardised data collection form. All foods available were evaluated with the UK Ofcom nutrient profiling scoring system (5) . Products were ranked according to their scores and meal combinations built (main + drink + side or pudding) from items at either side of the score spectrum. Eight meals combinations were built for each retail shop. The proposed meal combinations were assessed based on UK Ofcom nutrient profiling approach, and their costs evaluated.
doi:10.1017/s0029665116000574 fatcat:o5emnysp2jaxnpyaukuvfihv7i