Functional food

Functional food refers to foods that have a potentially positive effect on health beyond basic nutrition. These foods contain bioactive compounds that provide health benefits and prevent diseases. The concept of functional food originated in Japan in the 1980s when government agencies started approving foods with proven benefits in an effort to improve the health of the population.

Definition

The term "functional food" is used to describe food that has been enriched with additional nutrients or other health-promoting substances. These foods are intended to promote health and reduce the risk of disease. The additional nutrients or substances can be naturally occurring or added during processing.

Types of Functional Foods

Functional foods can be categorized into several types based on their origin and method of production. These include:

• Conventional foods - These are unmodified foods that are naturally rich in beneficial compounds. Examples include fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and fish.
• Fortified foods - These are foods that have been enriched with nutrients that are not naturally present in significant amounts. Examples include fortified cereals and breads.
• Enhanced foods - These are foods that have been supplemented with a component that is known to promote health. Examples include orange juice with added calcium or eggs with increased omega-3 fatty acids.
• Medical foods - These are foods that are formulated to be consumed under the supervision of a physician for the dietary management of a specific medical condition. Examples include foods for individuals with diabetes or kidney disease.

Health Benefits

Functional foods provide numerous health benefits, including:

• Heart health - Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber, and plant sterols can help maintain heart health.
• Bone health - Foods fortified with calcium and vitamin D can promote bone health.
• Digestive health - Foods containing probiotics or fiber can support a healthy digestive system.

Safety and Regulation

Functional foods are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The FDA requires that all health claims made by functional food manufacturers be supported by scientific evidence.

See Also

• Nutraceutical
• Dietary supplement
• Health claims on food labels