Terveysväittämiä

Terveysväittämiä refers to claims made about the health benefits or effects of a food, food category, or a component of food. These claims are typically used in marketing and on product labels to inform consumers about potential positive impacts on health. In many regions, including the European Union, health claims are subject to strict legal regulations to ensure that they are scientifically substantiated and not misleading to consumers.

To be permitted, a health claim must be supported by scientific evidence that is generally accepted by the scientific community. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) plays a significant role in evaluating the scientific substantiation of health claims submitted for authorization. If the evidence is deemed sufficient, the claim can be authorized and used on food products.

There are generally two types of health claims: those that refer to the development and health of the body, and those that refer to children's development and health. Claims can also be either disease reduction claims or claims relating to children's nutrition. Examples of health claims might include statements about a food's contribution to normal immune function, maintaining healthy bones, or reducing cholesterol levels.

The purpose of regulating health claims is to protect public health by preventing consumers from being deceived by unsubstantiated or misleading statements. This ensures that consumers can make informed choices about their diet based on accurate information. Consumers should be aware that not all claims made on food products are regulated or scientifically verified.