The Health Star Rating (HSR) system is a valuable front-of-pack nutrition labelling tool designed to help consumers compare packaged foods and make healthier choices.
But how accurately does the HSR reflect the healthfulness of core foods? And how well does it align with dietary guidance and nutrition evidence?
In this re-released episode, Associate Professor Sara Grafenauer shares insights from her 2025 research, which explored three evidence-based modelling scenarios to apply to the HSR algorithm. The research examined how the current system scores nuts and nut-containing foods, identified areas where some nuts may be disadvantaged because of their naturally occurring energy and saturated fat content, and evaluated potential changes to improve alignment with current dietary guidance and nutrition evidence.
Sara highlights potential unintended consequences of the current system, discusses the findings from the modelling scenarios, and explains how thoughtful refinements to the algorithm could strengthen public trust and confidence in the system, while better recognising the nutritional value of whole foods.
Key take-outs:
· The current HSR algorithm may not always reflect the overall health value of some nuts, despite their well-established role in healthy dietary patterns.
· Simple, evidence-based refinements to the algorithm could improve alignment with contemporary nutrition science and dietary guidelines.
· As the HSR system evolves, ensuring it accurately represents nutrient-dense whole foods will help maintain consumer trust and confidence in front-of-pack nutrition labelling.
· Mandatory HSR should reinforce, not complicate, advice to eat recommended core foods.
Access episode webpage: https://www.nutsforlife.com.au/resource/improving-the-hsr-for-nuts-re-release/
About today's guest
Associate Professor Sara Grafenauer is the Lead for the Nutrition, Dietetics and Food Innovation Program at UNSW and was instrumental in conceptualising and developing the program. Sara is an APD and Fellow of Dietitians Australia. She is on the Governing Boards for the International Whole Grain Initiative, and Oat Australia. Although Sara loves research and teaching, she still has a weekend private practice in Thirroul, New South Wales, where she lives.
Supporting resources
Improved recognition of the nutrition and health benefits of nuts and seeds within the Health Star Rating System. Nutrients, 2025
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/7/1195
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Host: Belinda Neville
Contact us: admin@nutsforlife.com.au
