health
Protein chips, sex chocolate: what are ‘functional foods’, and do they actually boost health?
If a food is labeled ‘functional’, what does that mean? Not much, experts say
TL;DR
- The term 'functional foods' lacks a regulatory definition and can mean different things to different people.
- These foods are marketed to provide specific health benefits or enhance bodily processes beyond basic nutrition.
- The functional foods market is rapidly expanding, driven by consumer health consciousness and wellness trends.
- Many functional food claims lack strong scientific evidence, with marketing often being the primary driver.
- Trendy additives like nootropics and adaptogens are increasingly found in functional foods, but often in sub-clinical doses.
- Regulatory oversight for functional food claims varies significantly between countries, with the US having less stringent rules for 'function claims' compared to 'health claims'.
- Consumers are advised to scrutinize labels, understand that 'functional' does not always equate to 'effective,' and prioritize whole, minimally processed foods.
- The effectiveness of added nutrients in functional foods is often questioned, and companies may use vague functional claims to avoid stricter regulations for health claims.