ndi

The Nutrient Density Index (NDI) is a holistic, pattern-based scoring system designed to estimate the nutritional contribution of foods based on their composition. Unlike conventional systems that over-emphasize calories or single nutrients, NDI evaluates nutrient density per calorie and balances it against known metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors.

NDI assigns each food a 0–100 score. Higher scores reflect stronger alignment with nutrient-dense whole foods.

• Fiber per 100 kcal • Protein per 100 kcal • Micronutrient density and spread • Standout nutrients • Balanced potassium-to-sodium ratio

• Added sugar density • Excess sodium density • Low satiety floor • Refined-starch load • Fat+carb synergy with low protein/fiber • Energy density with low micronutrient density

NDI does not rate food as “good” or “bad.” Each factor contributes to a compositional profile that helps a conscientious eater understand how foods contribute (or don’t) to micronutrition relative to caloric load.