v3.0 — 2026-05
Health score methodology
NeBu computes a 0–100 health score and an A–E grade for every product. We keep every step of the calculation open: the formula, the weights, the source database, the limitations. No step is a black box; you'll find the scientific references behind the numbers at the bottom of this page.
Our scoring principles
Transparency
On every product page the components that make up the score (Nutri-Score grade, detected additives, organic certification) are visible separately. No black-box math.
Scientific foundation
The backbone of the formula is the EU Commission-validated Nutri-Score (2017). Additive risk levels are based on the latest EFSA, WHO and FDA evaluations.
Conservative bias
When evidence is mixed or data is insufficient, the product does not get the benefit of the doubt — missing information leads to lower scores. We prefer false negatives over false positives.
Neutral
Brand, price, label marketing claims do not affect the score. Only measurable nutrition values and listed ingredients are evaluated.
How the food score is computed
Total = 0.60 × Nutrition + 0.30 × Additive risk + 0.10 × Organic bonus
Weights are an intentional choice: nutrition shapes the foundation of daily intake (60%), additives represent long-term exposure (30%), and organic certification is an additional quality signal (10%).
Nutrition (60%)
We apply the EU Commission's official Nutri-Score formula. Nutrition values are scored per 100 g/ml.
Negative-point inputs (higher value = more negative points): energy (kcal), saturated fat (g), simple sugar (g), sodium (mg).
Positive-point inputs (higher value reduces negative points, i.e. better): fiber (g), protein (g), share of fruit/vegetable/legume/nut content (%).
The raw Nutri-Score ranges from −15 (best) to +40 (worst). NeBu maps this onto a 0–100 scale (higher = better).
Grade thresholds (on NeBu's 0–100 scale): A ≥80, B ≥60, C ≥40, D ≥20, E <20.
If a product has insufficient nutrition data (e.g. the manufacturer didn't declare it) but has additive or organic signals, a partial score is shown; if no signal exists at all, the score is marked 'unknown'.
Additives (30%)
E-numbers (e.g. E951) and known additive names (e.g. aspartame, sodium nitrite) listed in the ingredients are scanned. Each detected additive reduces the total score based on its risk class.
Risk classification: high risk −30 (cancer association, hormone disruption, or strong allergen evidence), medium risk −10 (sensitivity/behavioral signal), low risk −3 (generally safe, within authorized limits), insufficient data −5 (unknown safety profile → conservative approach).
Example additives
- E951 — AspartameHigh
Artificial sweetener. Re-classified by IARC in 2023 as Class 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). Found in diet drinks, chewing gum.
Used for color and preservation in salami, sausage, Turkish sucuk. IARC reports increased colorectal cancer risk via nitrosamine formation when cooked (Group 2A).
Synthetic food dye. Studies (EFSA Southampton-6 panel) show weak association with attention/hyperactivity in children. Warning label is mandatory on EU packaging.
- E211 — Sodium benzoateMedium
Preservative in acidic beverages. Combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) trace amounts of benzene may form. Moderate allergen evidence.
Color in cola-type drinks. Its byproduct 4-MEI being on California Prop 65 is a worth-knowing warning.
Naturally sourced emulsifier (mostly soy). Low allergen risk; broadly safe in consumption.
Natural antioxidant, also known as vitamin C. Serves as both a preservative and a nutritional contribution.
Naturally occurring in fruits, acidity regulator. Known to be safe.
Gelling fiber derived from fruits. Primary thickening agent for jams and marmalades.
Legume-sourced thickener. High fiber content is a bonus.
Organic certification bonus (10%)
Products with official organic certifications get extra points. 'Natural' or unverified claims without certification do not earn the bonus — only audited, third-party-verified certifications count.
Certifications we accept
- EU Organic (Green Leaf)
The European Union's unified organic logo. Production, processing and labeling are audited under Regulation 2007/834. Common on Turkish export products.
- Turkish Ministry of Agriculture Organic
Audited under Turkey's Organic Agriculture Law no. 5262 by authorized control bodies. The legal marker for organic products produced in Turkey.
- Demeter (biodynamic)
International biodynamic agriculture certification. Stricter than EU Organic (e.g. closed-loop nutrient cycle).
- Bio-Suisse (Knospe)
Swiss organic standard. One of Europe's strictest organic certifications.
Cosmetics (coming soon — Phase 4)
Cosmetics scoring based on Open Beauty Facts + INCI ingredient analysis. Endocrine disruptors, allergen fragrances, microplastics and nanotechnology compounds will be part of the risk evaluation. Goes live in Phase 4 after Turkish (TPMK) trademark clearance.
Limitations — what you should know
The OpenFoodFacts database relies on community contributions. A Turkish brand may have missing or incorrect data — in that case the score becomes misleading. NeBu (and you) can improve missing products by contributing to OpenFoodFacts.
Nutri-Score is computed per 100 g/ml; the actual serving size consumed at once is not factored in. A high-calorie but small-portion product (e.g. a piece of chocolate) may be interpreted differently in real consumption.
Additive risk levels reflect the current scientific consensus and are updated as new studies emerge. Our scoring methodology tracks its version — the current version is shown at the top of this page.
Important — this app does not replace a doctor or dietitian
NeBu health scores are not personal medical advice. Users managing diabetes, celiac disease, allergies or chronic conditions must consult a professional. Scores are interpreted for an 'average adult' based on general public health references; personal needs may differ.