Nutrient profiling methods applied to mixed dishes and meals

The stated purpose of nutrient profiling (NP) models is to help implement dietary guidelines by addressing prevailing health issues. In high-income countries, obesity and non-communicable diseases are the main health issues of concern. As a result, NP models typically penalize packaged processed foods that contain calories, total or added sugar, sodium, and saturated fat. This negative nutrition approach may not be optimal for Southeast Asia, where nutrient shortfalls and nutrient deficiencies are still prevalent. A more positive approach featuring nutrients to encourage might be more appropriate. NP models should incorporate protein, fibre, calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. The specific choice of index nutrients may depend on population health needs. Further, given the diversity of Asian food cultures, it may be time to go beyond packaged foods and apply the NP methodology to mixed dishes and to complete meals. This article illustrates the application of NP models to composite meals.