näringspåståenden

Näringspåståenden, often translated as nutrition claims, are statements made on food labels or in advertising that highlight a food's positive nutritional properties. These claims are regulated by law to ensure they are truthful and not misleading to consumers. In the European Union, for example, Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 governs the use of such claims, categorizing them into nutrition claims and health claims.

Nutrition claims typically relate to the energy content or specific nutrients in a food. Examples include "low in fat," "high in fiber," "source of protein," or "reduced sugar." These statements must be substantiated by the actual nutritional content of the food. For instance, a food can only be labeled "low in fat" if it meets specific criteria for fat content per a defined amount.

The purpose of nutrition claims is to help consumers make informed food choices. By drawing attention to certain nutritional aspects, manufacturers can differentiate their products and appeal to consumers seeking specific dietary benefits. However, it is important for consumers to understand that these claims often focus on a single nutrient or characteristic and may not represent the overall nutritional profile of the food. Therefore, consumers should still consider the full ingredient list and the nutrition information panel when evaluating a product. Regulatory bodies monitor compliance with these rules to protect consumers from misleading information.