Food labeling claims in the USA can differ based on factors like types of claims, the product of interest, and usage. They are also different for animal food, human food, and dietary supplements. The regulations and scientific standards ensure the labeling claims for food and food supplements are mentioned correctly and substantiated scientifically.
Understanding the Regulatory framework behind these claims helps take better steps toward Food and Food Supplements (FDS).
Types of Claims
The labeling claims for food products are categorized into three groups as per the FDA regulations. These can be used on food, food components, and dietary products.
Health Claims
All the diseases or health conditions related to food, food components, and dietary ingredients are categorized under these claims. Health claims must be supported by the "Significant Scientific Agreement (SSA)," proposed by the experts in FDA.
Health claims are further sub-categorized into three categories listed below.
- NLEA Authorized Health Claims
- Health Claims Based on Authoritative Statements
- Qualified Health Claims
Nutrient Content Claims
Nutrient content claims include the level of nutrients present in the food products and dietary supplements. These claims are also used to compare the level of nutrients in the food.
Structure/Function and Related Dietary Claims
This category of claims focuses on the nutritive and non-nutritive effects of food components and dietary supplements. The effect of any food product on the body is mentioned clearly and tested under these claims. The FDA usually doesn’t require the manufacturers to notify about these claims.
Are you willing to market your food products in the USA? Ensure understanding the compliance best practices for labeling claims. Reach out to Freyr for a cost-effective claims review for all categories of Food and Food Supplements (FDS) in the USA.
