Episode 129: Health Star Rating: Can Parents Safely Rely on It for Nutritional Information?
Welcome to another episode of the Natural Super Kids Podcast! Today's topic is a continuation of last week's discussion on the Australian Dietary Guidelines for Children. If you missed that episode, be sure to check it out because it sets the stage for today's conversation.
We’re talking about another tool provided by the Australian government for parents seeking to make healthier food choices for their children: the Health Star Rating. It aims to rate similar food products’ overall nutritional profiles, to help parents determine the best food options. This system is designed to simplify the process of choosing nutritious foods by assigning a rating from half a star to five stars, with five stars indicating a very healthy choice. It's like a nutritional compass for busy parents.
In today’s episode, I will discuss:
- What the Health Star Rating is;
- The 4 main nutritional factors considered by the Health Star Rating when rating products;
- Why the Health Star Rating is flawed:
- It often ranks processed foods above wholefood options;
- It doesn’t distinguish between natural and added sugars;
- Manufacturers can tweak their scores by adding ingredients;
- It is not mandatory to have a rating on food products.
- The most common food labelling tricks that can mislead us;
- Practical tips for ensuring your kids get the best nutrition possible.
We understand that parenting is a challenge, and we're here to support you in making those healthy choices. Tune in NOW — this episode is packed with vital information that can have a big impact on your family’s health.
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Episode Links:
- Podcast - Episode 128: Filling the Gaps in the Australian Dietary Guidelines for Children
- Further Reading - Why the Health Star Rating Doesn’t Help You Choose Healthier Foods
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