Supporting safe innovation: FAO highlights food safety considerations for food supplements & functional or health foods | FAO News

Rome – Consumers in many countries are increasingly turning to food supplements & functional or health foods as part of their diets, in an effort to support their individual health & well-being, a new report by the Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations says.

The report, Food safety in personalized nutrition: a focus on food supplements & functional foods, explores emerging safety considerations related to these products, providing an overview of all important food safety aspects such as interactions with medications, appropriate dosage, & the need to assess the safety of ingredients that lack a history of consumption.

“The safety of active ingredients in food supplements & functional foods can depend on a number of factors, including their source, how they are processed, & the concentration levels at which they are used. Clear labelling & thorough safety assessments can support informed choices & consumer confidence,” said Maura Di Martino, author of the report.

Strengthening regulatory frameworks

Drawing on regulatory frameworks from around the world, the report examines how different countries & regions approach the classification, labelling, & regulation of food supplements & functional foods. This analysis aims to support food safety authorities, especially in low- & middle-income countries, by helping to strengthen regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation, safeguard consumers, & build trust in the marketplace.

Food supplements are described in the report as products containing concentrated sources of nutrients intended to complement one’s diet, while functional foods are considered  to offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition. These products, when responsibly produced & consumed, may have the potential to contribute positively to public health goals, although the evidence to support health claims is often lacking.

The report also explores evolving consumer behaviour & perceptions surrounding food supplements & functional foods. It underscores the growing influence these products have on purchasing decisions & consumer attitudes toward health & wellness. Providing consumers with accurate, science-based food safety information is crucial to ensuring responsible choices & fostering trust in the products. Further research to substantiate health claims is also critical to ensure complete & accurate information to consumers.

Safety & innovation

With scientific & technological advances continuing to open up new possibilities in personalized nutrition, the market for food supplements & functional foods is expected to grow. Ensuring the safety of these products through proactive, inclusive, & evidence-based approaches is important for public health, while also encouraging innovation.

Through collaboration & knowledge-sharing, FAO seeks to assist countries in developing effective regulations for these products, ensuring that safety issues do not undermine potential health benefits, while promoting equitable access to scientific knowledge for all.