A fit-for-purpose nutrient profiling model to underpin food and nutrition policies in South Africa
Abstract
South Africa (SA) is facing a rising prevalence of obesity and diet-related chronic diseases.
The government is seeking to develop effective, evidence-based policy measures to address this. A
well-designed, fit-for-purpose nutrient profiling model (NPM) can aid policy development. The
aim of this study was to develop a fit-for-purpose NPM in SA. Steps included: (1) determining the
purpose and target population; (2) selecting appropriate nutrients and other food components to
include; (3) selecting a suitable NPM type, criteria and base; and (4) selecting appropriate numbers
and thresholds. As part of the evaluation, the nutritional composition of packaged foods containing
nutritional information (n = 6747) in the SA food supply chain was analyzed, a literature review was
undertaken and various NPMs were evaluated. Our findings indicated that it is most appropriate to
adapt an NPM and underpin regulation with a restrictive NPM that limits unhealthy food components. The Chile 2019 NPM was identified as suitable to adapt, and total sugar, saturated fat, sodium
and non-sugar sweetener were identified as appropriate to restrict. This NPM has the potential
to underpin restrictive policies, such as front-of-package labelling and child-directed marketing
regulations in SA. These policies will support the fight against obesity and NCDs in the country.