Scoring explainer
Yuka score explained: food and cosmetic ratings
A Yuka score runs from 0 to 100. Yuka describes 75–100 as excellent, 50–74 as good, 25–49 as mediocre and below 25 as bad. Food and cosmetic products reach that number through different methods, so the score should be read with its explanation rather than as a universal safety verdict.
Research checked September 23, 2026. This page provides general information and does not offer medical or dietary advice.
Yuka rating bands
- Excellent: 75 to 100.
- Good: 50 to 74.
- Mediocre: 25 to 49.
- Bad: below 25.
Food score
- 60% nutritional quality, based on the Nutri-Score method.
- 30% presence of additives, using Yuka's editorial risk classifications.
- 10% organic certification bonus.
- A product containing an additive Yuka classifies as high risk is capped at 49/100.
Cosmetic score
Yuka assigns cosmetic ingredients to high, moderate, low or no-risk categories. The highest-risk ingredient determines the product's score band. Yuka states that its method evaluates ingredients but not product effectiveness, and its terms note that exact ingredient quantity is not generally incorporated.
Why two apps may disagree
An app can choose different evidence thresholds, precautionary rules, category exceptions and ways to handle missing concentration. Two calculations can both be internally consistent while expressing different editorial judgments.
Questions, answered
What is a good Yuka score?
Yuka labels scores from 50 to 74 as good and scores of 75 or higher as excellent. Those labels describe Yuka's editorial score, not a personalized health or safety judgment.
Is the Yuka score the same as Nutri-Score?
No. Nutri-Score contributes to Yuka's food rating, but Yuka also incorporates additive classifications and an organic component.
Do brands pay for higher Yuka scores?
Yuka says brands cannot influence its scores or recommendations and that its revenue comes from users rather than brands.
Does a cosmetic score measure effectiveness?
No. Yuka's published terms state that its cosmetic method evaluates ingredients and does not evaluate product effectiveness.