The use of food composition data in the Choices International Programme

• Food composition data are essential for FOP choices health logos.
• Food intake and composition data can be used to model nutrient intakes.
• An average diet with only Choices products is a healthier diet.
• Access to product composition data stimulates food research.

Food composition data have extensively been used in the Choices International Programme: they formed the basis of both criteria development and nutrient intake modeling. Criteria were developed for key nutrients linked to non communicable diseases by an independent scientific committee. The criteria can be used for the logo assignment on food products, in order to stimulate producers to improve their products and to stimulate consumers to purchase these products. Insights in steps of development of the criteria for the Choices program illustrates the importance of food composition data in this process. Modeling studies with the criteria for the Dutch Choices program showed an improved nutrient intake profile if consumers would choose products fulfilling the criteria of the Dutch logo as part of their diets. The role and availability of food composition databases in the development of the criteria and the modeling studies is discussed.