Details
How HPB Determines the Healthier Choice Symbol Guidelines
The Healthier Choice Symbol (HCS) nutrient criteria are developed based on:
- Extensive scientific research
- Feedback from the food industry
- Market studies of similar products
We set the nutrient criteria by adjusting key nutrients by 25% up or down from the median in each product category. These criteria vary by product type and their nutritional content.
The main goals are to:
- Lower the amount of undesirable nutrients like sodium and saturated fat
- Increase the amount of beneficial nutrients like calcium and dietary fibre
How HPB Ensures HCS Product Compliance
The Health Promotion Board (HPB) has a strict process for HCS products.
To join the programme, companies must:
- Apply through a formal proces
- Send lab test results from an accredited lab using Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods or equivalent.
- Sign a licence agreement with HPB to use the HCS logo
HPB also does random checks. If a product does not comply, it can be removed from the programme.
How HPB Updates HCS Guidelines
HPB reviews the guidelines regularly based on the latest scientific research.
For example, in April 2020, 2 key changes were made.
- Egg and egg substitutes were removed based on new research
- Sugary foods, like chocolates and sweets , were added due to changing sugar consumption habits