Sirje Potisepp emphasizes that healthy eating should not be simplified to a choice between 'green' and 'red' labels as seen in the Nutri-Score system. This labeling approach, advocated by Estonia's Ministry of Agriculture and the Health Development Institute, has raised concerns because it relies on a mathematical algorithm comparing nutritional contents rather than assessing the overall healthiness of the food products. Potisepp argues that this could mislead consumers into believing that a colorful label definitively indicates whether a food item is healthy or not.

The Nutri-Score system is not a uniform EU labeling scheme but a voluntary initiative adopted by several countries, starting in France in 2017. Alongside France, it is also used in countries like Belgium, Germany, and Spain. However, several nations have chosen to reject or critically assess the system, including Italy and Greece, who argue that it does not adequately represent the complexities of food quality and nutrition. This raises questions about the adequacy and reliability of such a labeling system and its potential impact on consumer health choices.

Estonia's consideration of the Nutri-Score system reflects a broader debate within the EU regarding food labeling practices and health messaging. Critics, including Potisepp, advocate for a more nuanced approach to food healthiness instead of relying on simplistic color codes that may not fully convey important dietary information. The outcome of this discussion will shape how consumers make decisions about their food in Estonia and possibly influence similar debates across Europe.