Overview
This lecture covers the different types of claims found on food labels, explains their regulatory standards, and provides examples to help consumers interpret these claims.
Types of Label Claims
- There are three main types of label claims: health claims, structure/function claims, and nutrient content claims.
- Label claims are not mandatory and are used by manufacturers for marketing purposes to promote products.
- Legislation since 1990 regulates which claims may appear on food labels and sets criteria for their use.
Health Claims
- Health claims describe a relationship between a nutrient and a disease or health condition.
- These claims are strongly supported by scientific research and are strictly regulated.
- Only about 12 health claims are officially approved (e.g., soluble fiber and reduced cholesterol).
- Health claims must demonstrate significant scientific agreement and FDA approval.
Structure/Function Claims
- Structure/function claims explain how a nutrient affects the structure or function of the human body, not diseases.
- Example: "Calcium builds strong bones" (not "reduces risk of osteoporosis").
- Do not require FDA approval but must include a disclaimer stating they do not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases.
- Common on dietary supplements and some foods.
Nutrient Content Claims
- Nutrient content claims state the amount or absence of a nutrient in a product (e.g., "fat-free," "low sodium," "reduced fat").
- There are legal definitions for these terms (e.g., "low fat" = less than 3g fat per serving).
- "Reduced" and "light" compare nutrient amounts to the original version, requiring 25% (reduced) or 50% (light) less.
- "Excellent source" means at least 20% of daily value; "good source" means 10-19% of daily value.
Practical Examples of Claims
- "Reduced fat" peanut butter: nutrient content claim (25% less fat than regular).
- "25g of soy protein reduces heart disease risk": health claim (nutrient-disease relationship).
- "Omega-3 supports brain health": structure/function claim (body function).
- "Fat-free" pudding: nutrient content claim (<0.5g fat per serving).
- "Sugar-free" Oreos: nutrient content claim (<0.5g sugar per serving).
- Yogurt claim linking calcium and osteoporosis: health claim.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Health Claim — Links a nutrient or food with a disease or health condition; FDA regulated.
- Structure/Function Claim — Describes how a nutrient influences body structure or function, not diseases; requires a disclaimer.
- Nutrient Content Claim — States the amount or absence of a nutrient; must meet legal criteria.
- Daily Value (DV) — Reference values on labels based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the table of nutrient content claims in your textbook and practice navigating claims.
- Complete homework and study modules involving label claims.
- Prepare for the next lecture on dietary guidelines and MyPlate.