Development of a Nutrient Profiling Model for Processed Foods in Japan

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Food Policy
• Public Health

Background:

• Numerous nutrient profiling models (NPMs) exist globally, but Japan has lacked an official system.
• Existing models may not align with Japanese dietary habits or food policies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an official nutrient profiling model for processed foods in Japan (NPM-PFJ 1.0).
• To adapt the Australian and New Zealand Health Star Rating (HSR) for Japanese context.
• To create a tool supporting healthier food choices and industry reformulation.

Main Methods:

• Analyzed 668 processed foods using the Standard Tables of Food Composition in Japan.
• Adapted the HSR scoring algorithm with revised Japanese reference values for key nutrients.
• Utilized hierarchical cluster analysis to define Japanese food categories.
• Developed the rating algorithm based on score distribution percentiles.

Main Results:

• The NPM-PFJ (1.0) showed a high correlation with the HSR (r = 0.939, p < 0.01).
• Median scores were 4.5 for HSR and 5.0 for NPM-PFJ (1.0).
• Six distinct Japanese food categories were identified based on scoring patterns.

Conclusions:

• NPM-PFJ (1.0) is a transparent, evidence-based model tailored for Japanese food culture and policies.
• The model is expected to aid food industry reformulation and consumer selection of healthier options.
• This development represents a significant advancement for public health in Japan.