How FAT Scores
The three-step model, the four-tier credibility scale, the 0–100 formula, and the A–F grade.
The full FAT scoring methodology — how the 0–100 score is built, what the four credibility tiers mean, and how the A–F grade is assigned.
How FAT Scores
FAT runs every label through the same three-step analysis. The 0–100 FAT Score is built on two equal pillars; Step 3 sits alongside the score as public-record context.
What is disclosed?
For each of the 15 transparency categories, FAT marks the label Known (clearly disclosed), Partial (vague), or Missing (not addressed).
How credible is the disclosure?
Every Known disclosure is rated on a four-tier credibility scale: Third-party audited, USDA-reviewed, Producer-affidavit, or Unverified marketing.
Step 2 — The Four Credibility Tiers
Independent on-farm audit (USDA Organic, Certified Humane, AWA, GAP, MSC, ASC, BAP). Weight 1.0×.
USDA program with audit teeth — Process Verified, USDA grade marks, FSIS catfish inspection. Weight 0.7×.
FSIS-approved label language; producer affidavit only — no on-farm audit. Weight 0.4×.
Printed with no third-party audit and no government label-language approval. Weight 0.1×.
The 0–100 FAT Score — Two Pillars
Pillar 1 — Disclosure (0–50 pts)
Each of the 15 categories earns Known (1.0×), Partial (0.4×), or Missing (0×). The average is multiplied by 50.
Pillar 2 — Credibility (0–50 pts)
For each disclosed category, the credibility weight (1.0 / 0.7 / 0.4 / 0.1) is averaged and multiplied by 50.
Grade Scale
| Grade | Range | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A | 80–100 | Comprehensive disclosure, strongly backed claims |
| B | 65–79 | Good disclosure with solid credibility |
| C | 50–64 | Moderate disclosure or mixed credibility |
| D | 35–49 | Limited disclosure or weakly backed claims |
| F | 0–34 | Minimal disclosure, little or no verification |
The Three Lights — How Each Category Reads
Fully disclosed and third-party audited or government-audit confirmed.
Partially disclosed, or USDA-reviewed / producer-affidavit only.
Not disclosed, or unverified marketing only. A gap, not a violation.
Full methodology at /how-fat-scores-labels/ · learn-how-to-read-meat-labels