In the United States, rising rates of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease call for an increased focus on healthy eating and food habits. But the choices can be overwhelming and confusing when selecting healthy, nutrient rich foods. An investment in a woman- co-owned and co-founded company in Mercy Investment Services’ Inclusive Opportunities Fund is trying to simplify consumer choices with a “FICO of Food” score to educate consumers on the nutritional value of products.
FoodHealth’s nutrition intelligence platform evaluates food based on nutrient density and ingredient quality, assigning a FoodHealth Score on a 1 to 100 rating system. Developed by data scientists and dietitians, the score promotes whole grains, healthy fats, protein and fiber, while penalizing added sugars, artificial colors and harmful additives. More than 35 brands including retailers, consumer packaged goods companies and food manufacturers have reformulated products and implemented FoodHealth Scores, helping 65 million weekly shoppers to make healthier, disease-preventive food choices.
Mercy Investment Services’ Inclusive Opportunities Fund is committed to investing in women, people of color, and other disenfranchised groups who have been shut out of traditional capital markets and overlooked by mainstream investors. Learn more on our website.