FUNCTIONAL FOODS Samantha Richards NUTR 243

Overview How to define “functional foods” Common misconceptions Regulation of functional foods Categories of functional foods Functional food in relation to consumer trends

Learning Objectives 1.Know what a functional food is and be aware of common misconceptions 2.Recognize what types of foods are marketed as functional foods and how they play a role in consumer trends 3.Understand the regulation of functional foods

What is a “Functional Food”? No standard definition Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics definition: – “Whole foods along with fortified, enriched, or enhanced foods that have a potentially beneficial effect on health when consumed as part of a varied diet on a regular basis at effective levels based on significant standards of evidence.”

Defining Functional Foods

Common Misconceptions The term “functional foods” does NOT include: – Nutraceuticals Dietary supplements Medical foods

Regulation of Functional Foods Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938 – No provision for defining functional foods – The intended use of a food is the main determinant for regulatory status 4 types of claims allowed on functional food labels: – nutrient content claims – structure/function claims – health claims – qualified health claims.

Categories of Functional Foods Three Categories: 1.Conventional foods containing natural bioactive food compounds 2.Modified foods containing bioactive food compounds through enrichment or fortification 3.Food ingredients that are synthesized

How Functional Foods play a role in Consumer Trends Focus of research shifting from nutrients that can cure deficiency diseases to nutrients that can prevent diseases – Trend to self-treat “Prescriptive eating,” is ranked among the top 10 food trends (Institute of Food Technologists’ Food Technology magazine)

How Functional Foods play a role in Consumer Trends

Factors driving the functional food market: – Rising health care costs – The increasing age of the population – Obesity epidemic – High levels of lifestyle diseases How Functional Foods play a role in Consumer Trends

Conclusion No standard definition of functional foods – Provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition Functional foods are not the same as nutrceuticals Included in regulation of foods in conventional form Becoming a growing trend in the consumer market

References

Questions?