Nutrition and Health Claims
According to Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006, two distinct types of claims can be made regarding food products: Nutrition Claims and Health Claims. Nutrition Claims highlight specific beneficial nutritional properties of a food, such as reduced fat content compared to an equivalent product. These claims focus on the nutritional composition, such as energy value or the presence of certain substances.
The chart summarizes the types of nutrition and health claims regulated under EU legislation. Nutrition Claims (Chapter III) describe the nutritional characteristics of a food, such as being high in fiber, low in fat, or a source of protein. Health Claims (Chapter IV) are divided into three categories: Function Health Claims (Article 13): claims about a nutrient’s role in normal body functions, such as bone, immune, or digestive health. Risk Reduction Health Claims (Article 14(1)(a)): claims stating that a food or ingredient reduces a risk factor linked to a disease. Claims Referring to Children’s Development and Health (Article 14(1)(b)): claims specifically related to children's growth, development, and health.
Health Claims, on the other hand, assert that consuming a particular food provides scientifically substantiated health benefits. Health claims are further divided into three subgroups: Function Health Claims (Article 13), which relate to the growth, development, and functions of the body, as well as psychological, behavioral, or weight-control effects; Risk Reduction Health Claims (Article 14-1a), which address the reduction of risk factors associated with the development of diseases; and Claims referring to children’s development (Article 14-1b), which are specifically relevant to supporting normal growth and development in children. The distinction between claims under Article 13 and Article 14 is particularly important for understanding the regulatory requirements and scientific substantiation needed for each type.