Structure/Function Claims

Definition

Structure/function claims are statements made by manufacturers about the effects of a product on the body's structure or function. These claims are often used in marketing functional foods and nutraceuticals, suggesting that these products can support health or wellness without making specific disease-related claims. Such claims must be truthful and not misleading, as they are regulated by the FDA, but they do not require pre-market approval.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Structure/function claims must be substantiated by evidence but do not require FDA approval before being marketed.
2. Examples of structure/function claims include statements like 'calcium builds strong bones' or 'antioxidants support immune function.'
3. These claims are distinct from health claims, which specifically relate to reducing the risk of diseases and require more rigorous scientific evidence.
4. Manufacturers must notify the FDA when making structure/function claims, but they are not required to submit clinical studies beforehand.
5. Consumers should critically evaluate structure/function claims, as they can sometimes be vague or overly broad without supporting scientific evidence.

Review Questions

• How do structure/function claims differ from health claims in terms of regulatory requirements and definitions?
  • Structure/function claims describe how a product affects bodily functions or structures and must be truthful without misleading consumers. Unlike health claims, which imply a relationship between food and disease prevention, structure/function claims do not require prior FDA approval. While both types of claims must be substantiated by evidence, structure/function claims offer more flexibility for manufacturers in promoting their products without stringent pre-market scrutiny.
• Discuss the implications of structure/function claims for consumers and how they should approach such claims when evaluating functional foods.
  • For consumers, structure/function claims can provide helpful information about how certain foods might contribute to overall health and wellness. However, these claims can sometimes lack clarity and depth, leading to potential misinterpretation. It's essential for consumers to approach these claims with a critical eye, looking for additional information and understanding that while these claims suggest benefits, they do not replace medical advice or proven treatments.
• Evaluate the role of structure/function claims in the marketing of nutraceuticals and their impact on consumer perception in the food industry.
  • Structure/function claims play a significant role in the marketing of nutraceuticals by creating a perception of enhanced health benefits among consumers. By highlighting specific effects on body structure or function, manufacturers can differentiate their products in a competitive market. This practice can lead to increased consumer trust and interest; however, it also raises ethical concerns regarding potential misinformation if the underlying science is not robust. Evaluating these claims critically is essential for consumers to make informed choices about their dietary intake.

Related terms

Health Claims: Statements that describe the relationship between a food or dietary ingredient and its ability to reduce the risk of a disease or health-related condition.

Nutraceuticals:

Products derived from food sources that provide health benefits, including medical or health benefits, in addition to their basic nutritional value.

Functional Foods:

Foods that have a positive effect on health beyond basic nutrition, often containing ingredients that enhance their health benefits.