Structure/Function Claims

Definition

Structure/function claims are statements that describe the role of a nutrient or dietary ingredient in supporting normal structure or function in the body. These claims focus on how a product may affect general health and wellness, without making direct references to disease prevention or treatment, which distinguishes them from health claims.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Structure/function claims must be truthful and not misleading, but they do not require pre-approval by the FDA before being used on product labels.
2. Examples of structure/function claims include phrases like 'supports immune health' or 'promotes strong bones,' which indicate potential benefits without implying treatment of specific diseases.
3. Manufacturers must have evidence to back up their structure/function claims, although they are not subject to the same rigorous review process as health claims.
4. These claims must include a disclaimer stating that the FDA has not evaluated the claim and that the product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
5. Structure/function claims are primarily used in marketing dietary supplements and functional foods to communicate potential health benefits to consumers.

Review Questions

• How do structure/function claims differ from health claims in terms of regulatory requirements and implications?
  • Structure/function claims differ from health claims primarily in their regulatory requirements and implications. While structure/function claims do not need pre-approval from the FDA and focus on general health benefits, health claims explicitly link a substance to a specific disease risk reduction and require FDA evaluation. This distinction means that structure/function claims are more flexible for manufacturers to use but carry less weight in terms of substantiated health benefits.
• Evaluate the importance of disclaimers associated with structure/function claims on food labels and how they protect consumers.
  • Disclaimers associated with structure/function claims are crucial because they inform consumers that these claims have not been evaluated by the FDA and do not imply treatment or prevention of diseases. This transparency helps protect consumers from potentially misleading information regarding product efficacy. By clearly stating these limitations, manufacturers are held accountable for their marketing practices while ensuring that consumers are aware that such claims should not be interpreted as medical advice.
• Assess how structure/function claims can influence consumer behavior and purchasing decisions in the food and dietary supplement markets.
  • Structure/function claims can significantly influence consumer behavior by providing perceived value and benefits associated with products, thus impacting purchasing decisions. When consumers see terms like 'boosts energy' or 'supports heart health,' they may feel inclined to choose those products over competitors. However, this influence can be problematic if consumers do not understand that such claims are not FDA-approved or scientifically validated. The reliance on these claims highlights the importance of consumer education regarding the differences between structure/function claims and scientifically supported health claims.

Related terms

Health Claims: Statements that specifically link a food or dietary ingredient to a reduced risk of a disease or health-related condition.

Nutritional Labeling: The practice of providing information about the nutritional content of food products, including serving sizes, calories, and nutrient amounts.

Dietary Supplements: Products taken orally that contain dietary ingredients intended to supplement the diet, such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, or amino acids.