Science & Research
Who oversees the methodology
How research is reviewed and updated
How foods are evaluated
How the scoring spectrum works
Methodology Overview
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Understanding the Scoring Spectrum
Evidence-based advice for everyday decisions.
Research Library
Evidence-based advice for everyday decisions.
Advisory Panel
Evidence-based advice for everyday decisions.
Our Ratings System
TOTAL SCORE
MOST NUTRIENT-DENSE
MORE NUTRIENT-DENSE
POSITIVE OUTWEIGH NEGATIVES
EQUAL POSITIVES & NEGATIVES
NEGATIVES OUTWEIGH POSITIVES
LESS NUTRIENT-DENSE
LEAST NUTRIENT-DENSE
STAR RATING
Breakdown of Total Scores Example
Based on ingredients, General Foods Algorithm is selected
Nutrition Facts are standardized to 100 calories
Credits and Debits assigned per algorithm based on ingredients, scaled nutrition facts & on-pack claims
Credits + Debits =
Total Score
Total Score determines Star rating based on algorithm
More
Fiber
Vitamins & Minerals
Whole Grains
Less
Additives to Limit
Added Sodium
Added Sugar
Policy & Public Health
How Guiding Stars aligns with public health goals and dietary guidelines from leading health organizations. Supporting institutional and policy-level decision making.