Regulated health-related statement claiming a food supports specific health functions or prevents disease.
A statement on food packaging linking a food or constituent to health benefits or disease reduction (e.g., 'calcium supports bone health') that requires scientific evidence and regulatory approval before use.
Health claims differ from nutritional claims by explicitly linking food consumption to health functions or disease prevention. These claims face stringent regulatory oversight because they significantly influence purchase decisions. In the EU, health claims require pre-market authorization by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) based on rigorous scientific evidence. Approved claims include generic health claims like 'Calcium is necessary for normal bones' and disease-risk reduction claims like 'High potassium intake supports normal blood pressure.' Unauthorized health claims are prohibited to prevent misleading marketing of foods with unproven health benefits. The distinction between approved and unauthorized claims is critical for consumer protection.
Communicates scientifically-substantiated health benefits of food components when properly approved.
Verify that health claims are officially approved in your region before trusting them. Remember that approved claims apply to the nutrient or substance, not necessarily the whole food product. Use health claims as one factor among many in dietary decisions, not as medical treatment. Consult healthcare providers for personalized health advice rather than relying solely on food claims.
Health claims must be scientifically proven and officially approved before appearing on food packaging.
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