Personalized Food Score (PFS): A flexible nutrient profiling framework based on national nutrient guidelines and estimated energy requirements

Abstract

Nutrient profiling systems (NPSs) are increasingly recognized as crucial tools for promoting healthier food choices. However, existing NPSs typically assess foods based on a standardized 2000 kcal diet, ignoring individual variations in estimated energy requirements (EER). In this study, we developed the Personalized Food Score (PFS), a dynamic and flexible framework that evaluates foods based on individual EER and country-specific nutrient standards. The PFS was designed through five main steps, allowing it to adapt to various cases. To validate the PFS, we assessed over 30,000 packaged foods in Korea and 3117 foods in the US, confirming its reliability. Significant differences in food scores were observed across different EER levels. Convergent validation using the Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant variations in PFS scores within and across food groups, demonstrating the system's capability to differentiate foods based on individual EER. Compared to the established Nutrient Rich Food index 9.3 (NRF 9.3), the PFS underscores the benefits of incorporating EER, highlighting the need for personalized NPSs. In conclusion, the PFS is an innovative tool for personalized nutrition profiling, aiding individuals in making healthier food choices based on their unique attributes and EER.