How we score food
NutriScan's scores are designed to help you make more informed grocery decisions. A score is not a medical judgment and does not mean a product is universally healthy or unhealthy.
Product data
NutriScan uses available product information from sources such as Open Food Facts, including nutrition, ingredients, product category, serving size, and other attributes. Product information can change and may sometimes be incomplete, outdated, or incorrect. NutriScan does not independently verify every product label.
Overall Score (0–100)
The Overall Score combines seven components, each scored independently. Missing components are skipped — never zeroed — and the final score is normalized over the data we do have. A separate confidence rating tells you how reliable the available data is.
Added sugar
20 ptsLower added sugar scores higher. We use real added-sugar data from Open Food Facts when available. When it is not, we use total sugar as a secondary signal and mark that component lower-confidence — we never treat total sugar as added sugar.
Sodium
15 ptsLower sodium scores higher, based on sodium per 100g.
Saturated fat
15 ptsLower saturated fat scores higher, based on saturated fat per 100g.
Fiber
15 ptsMore fiber scores higher — a signal of whole-food content.
Protein
10 ptsMore protein scores higher, but it is capped so it cannot overpower negative factors.
Processing
15 ptsOne factor, not a verdict. We use the NOVA classification when reliable; otherwise we estimate modestly from ingredient and additive evidence, and mark it lower-confidence. Ingredient count alone is never a penalty.
Ingredient profile
10 ptsStarts at 10, with small deductions for meaningful signals like multiple added sweeteners, artificial colors, or strong refined-formulation indicators. Common emulsifiers, natural flavors, and unfamiliar ingredient names are not automatically penalized.
For You Score
The For You Score starts from the Overall Score, then adjusts based on the goals and dietary preferences you selected in your profile. The total adjustment is capped at +15 or −15, so your preferences can shift the score but never fully override the underlying food quality. The same product may receive different personalized considerations for different users.
Ingredients & nutrition
NutriScan considers available nutrition and ingredient information when evaluating a product. When ingredient or nutrition data is missing, that component is skipped rather than guessed.
Healthier swaps
NutriScan attempts to identify better alternatives within the same or closely matching product category when sufficient product data is available. A recommended swap may be better in some respects but not necessarily in every respect.
Data limitations
NutriScan relies on product information available from its data sources. Some products may have incomplete, outdated, or missing information. When important information is unavailable, NutriScan may limit or withhold certain evaluations rather than invent information.
Allergen awareness
When you select allergens to avoid in your profile, NutriScan checks available allergen data from the product and its ingredient list. Missing allergen information does not mean a product is allergen-free. Always verify against the product's current packaging, especially for serious allergies.
Score labels
NutriScan AI is an informational grocery decision tool. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it should not replace guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.