Heart Symbol gains attention in Finland as new nutrition guidelines emphasize healthy eating choices

The Heart Symbol, a label for food packaging, has recently garnered attention from experts discussing healthy eating choices. New nutrition guidelines were launched on Wednesday, emphasizing the health impacts of dietary habits. Teija Keso, a nutritionist from the Heart Association, addresses several questions regarding the Heart Symbol.

What is the Heart Symbol?
This label indicates that a food item is a nutritious choice within its category, aiming to simplify shopping decisions. It allows consumers to quickly identify healthier options without needing to analyze the nutrient content of every single product, as Keso explains.

The Heart Symbol is a registered nutritional claim in the EU and is the only symbol in Finland that signifies a product’s nutritional quality. The label has been around for over two decades, supported by organizations like the Heart Association and the Diabetes Association.

What does the Heart Symbol indicate?
Criteria for the Heart Symbol vary per food category, focusing mainly on levels of salt, sugar, fiber, and the quality and quantity of fat. For instance, bread with this label signifies high fiber content while having less salt. In the frozen meals section, it indicates that the fat quality is recommended and salt levels are moderate.

Why can processed meats, cookies, pastries, or ketchup carry the Heart Symbol?
The purpose is to assist consumers in choosing the best nutritional option within a category, not to imply unlimited consumption. For example, in families with children, the label helps locate lower-fat cookies with moderate sugar levels.

Does the Heart Symbol address environmental impact?
The Heart Symbol does not consider sustainability issues; its focus is solely on nutritional quality.

How are the criteria determined?
The criteria are based on scientific evidence and recommendations, decided by an impartial expert group. The standards are regularly reviewed to adapt to evolving food products, especially in the realm of plant-based options.

To obtain the Heart Symbol, manufacturers must apply for its use. Annual fees apply based on the number of products, but fresh fruits, vegetables, and berries do not incur costs. Funds collected are directed towards maintaining the Heart Symbol system without profit motives.