The Nutritional Profile of Spanish Beverages: A Comparative Evaluation of the Original and Updated Nutri-Score...

Background: In response to criticism and limitations of the Nutri-Score Nutrient Profiling Model (NS-NPM), the algorithm was updated in 2023. However, its impact on beverage classification remains partially assessed. Objective: This study aimed to compare the nutritional profiles of beverages marketed in Spain using the original and updated NS-NPM algorithms. Methods: Nutritional data for 3432 beverages in the "Drink Base" database were analyzed using both the 2015 (original) and 2023 (updated) NS-NPM versions. Results: The 2023 update showed significant changes compared to the 2015 version. Updated scores particularly increased for artificially sweetened beverages (+190.3%), milkshakes (+98.9%), nut-based beverages (+343.9%), cereal-based beverages (+651.3%), and the mix of plant-based beverages (+733%), leading to a less healthy classification. Conversely, scores decreased for fruit juices (-12.7%) and alcohol-substitute beverages (-8.2%), while legume-based beverages maintained their classification with minimal score variation (-1.4%), raising questions about the treatment of free sugars. The remaining beverage categories experienced score changes that did not alter their classification. Conclusions: The 2023 NS-NPM algorithm improves beverage classification by refining the differentiation of sugar-sweetened and artificially sweetened beverages, improving consumer guidance. While it increases discrimination, challenges remain in the classification of plant-based beverages and fruit juices. These findings highlight Nutri-Score's impact on industry reformulation and its potential as a public health tool to promote healthier beverage choices. This study provides novel evidence on how the updated Nutri-Score algorithm may influence consumer perception and food policy in the Spanish context.