Structure/function claims

Definition

Structure/function claims are statements made on food labels that describe the role of a nutrient or ingredient in supporting normal body functions, growth, or health. These claims are not as tightly regulated as health claims and do not need to be pre-approved by the FDA, but they must be truthful and not misleading. They help consumers understand how certain foods may affect their well-being.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Structure/function claims can describe how a nutrient affects normal bodily functions, such as 'calcium builds strong bones.'
2. Unlike health claims, structure/function claims do not require pre-market approval from the FDA but must be substantiated by adequate evidence.
3. Manufacturers must notify the FDA when they use structure/function claims on their products, although this notification is not an approval process.
4. These claims cannot directly mention diseases or imply that consuming the product will treat or prevent any specific health issue.
5. Consumers should be aware that while structure/function claims can provide helpful information, they may not always represent definitive scientific evidence.

Review Questions

• How do structure/function claims differ from health claims in terms of regulation and requirements?
  • Structure/function claims differ from health claims primarily in the level of regulation. While health claims require pre-approval by the FDA and must demonstrate a significant scientific link to a specific health condition, structure/function claims do not need this approval process. Instead, they can be used as long as they are truthful and not misleading, allowing manufacturers more flexibility in how they market their products without stringent evidence requirements.
• What responsibilities do manufacturers have when making structure/function claims on their products?
  • Manufacturers have the responsibility to ensure that their structure/function claims are truthful and not misleading. They must also notify the FDA when they choose to use these claims on food labels, though this does not involve a pre-approval process. Additionally, they should have adequate evidence to support any claim made, ensuring that consumers receive accurate information about the effects of the product on normal bodily functions.
• Evaluate the implications of structure/function claims on consumer understanding of nutrition and health.
  • Structure/function claims have significant implications for consumer understanding of nutrition and health as they can enhance awareness of how specific nutrients may support overall well-being. However, because these claims do not require rigorous scientific validation like health claims, consumers might mistakenly believe these products are effective remedies for specific conditions. This could lead to over-reliance on such products without sufficient attention to a balanced diet and lifestyle choices, highlighting the need for critical evaluation of food labeling practices.

Related terms

Health Claims:

Statements that link a food or dietary ingredient to a reduced risk of a health-related condition or disease, requiring FDA approval.

Nutrient Content Claims:

Claims that describe the level of a nutrient in a food product, such as 'low fat' or 'high in fiber,' which are also regulated by the FDA.

FDA (Food and Drug Administration): The U.S. government agency responsible for regulating food labeling and ensuring that claims made on packaging are truthful and not misleading.