From Science to Policy Impact

The Choices Programme supports countries in translating nutritional science into effective, coherent, and sustainable public health policies. It provides a structured approach that connects a global scientific foundation with national implementation and real-world policy impact.

Our approach consists of three integrated components:

1. A global scientific foundation
At the core of the programme is the Choices International Nutrient Profiling System—an independent, science-based model developed and maintained by an international committee of experts and updated every 4–5 years.
This system provides objective criteria to distinguish between healthier and less healthy food products, forming a robust basis for policy development.

2. National adaptation
To ensure relevance and effectiveness, the global model is adapted to national contexts. Countries align the system with their own dietary guidelines, food environments, and public health priorities.
This country-driven process ensures scientific integrity while enabling local ownership and practical applicability.

3. Coherent nutrition policies
The adapted nutrient profiling system serves as a common technical foundation for a wide range of policy measures, including front-of-pack labelling, marketing restrictions, fiscal policies, and food standards.
By using consistent criteria across these instruments, countries create coherent policy frameworks that are more effective, transparent, and easier to implement.

An integrated pathway to impact
By linking these three components, the Choices Programme enables countries to move from scientific evidence to aligned policy action. This integrated approach strengthens policy effectiveness, supports healthier food environments, and contributes to the prevention of diet-related non-communicable diseases.