A combined Nutri-Score and ‘Eco-Score’ approach for more nutritious and more environmentally friendly food choices? Evidence from a consumer experiment in Belgium

The application of Nutri-Score on food products is ubiquitous throughout Europe and studies demonstrating its potential to stimulate healthier choices are accumulating. At the same time, a strong need exists evenly harmonize activate communication environmental impacts products, in synergy with Nutri-Score. This raises question whether could be expanded an ‘Eco-Score’ that would similarly encourage environmentally friendly choices. paper reports randomized control trial, which representative sample 805 Belgian consumers was asked hypothetically buy ingredients for meal small-scale mock-up E-grocery environment. experiment tested combined Eco-Score affected nutritional quality impact consumers’ effect compared general specific dietary recommendations one hand, detailed tables other hand. Since visual distraction often plays role informative persuasion, treatments were evaluated subject different levels caused by product images. average index (NQI) (EII) selected baskets calculated evaluate effects manipulations. We find joint label improves NQI but not EII. general- recommendation as well information also improved NQI. However, only treatment improvements due scores explained reduced consumption pork. EII induced mainly reduction beef consumption. Only very mild indications found images interfered scores. study provides some initial evidence support use dual – induce transitions towards more sustainable diets. outside classic Front-Of-Package framework promising way realize such transition. it remains similar occur real E-groceries longer time scale.