Protein chips, sex chocolate: what are ‘functional foods’, and do they actually boost health?

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.

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