Mixed

Nutrient-based front-of-pack labeling systems (like Health Star Rating) can assign high health scores to ultra-processed foods, creating a 'health halo' that misleads consumers about the nutritional quality of convenience foods, sports/diet foods, and meat alternatives.

When evaluating packaged foods, do not rely solely on front-of-pack labels like the Health Star Rating. These systems focus on nutrients (sugar, sodium, fiber) but ignore how processed the food is. Look for the ingredient list: if it contains industrial additives, emulsifiers, or protein isolates, it is likely ultra-processed, even if it has a high health score. Prioritize whole, minimally processed foods over highly processed ones with 'good' nutrient profiles.