Product claims on nutrition facts labels are powerful tools for attracting consumers and differentiating products in the competitive food market. However, these claims are subject to strict regulatory oversight to ensure accuracy and prevent misleading information. This blog post will guide food producers through the essential requirements and best practices for declaring product claims on nutrition facts labels.

Why Product Claims Matter

1. Consumer Appeal: Claims like “Low Fat” or “High in Fiber” resonate with health-conscious consumers and influence purchasing decisions.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Accurate claims help businesses avoid penalties, recalls, or loss of consumer trust.
3. Competitive Advantage: Properly substantiated claims can set your product apart from competitors.

Types of Product Claims

1. Nutrient Content Claims:
   • Describe the level of a nutrient in a product (e.g., “Low Sodium,” “Sugar-Free”).
   • Must meet specific criteria defined by regulatory bodies such as the FDA or Health Canada.
2. Health Claims:
   • Connect a nutrient or food component to a specific health benefit (e.g., “Calcium helps maintain strong bones”).
   • Can be authorized or qualified based on scientific evidence.
3. Structure/Function Claims:
   • Describe the role of a nutrient in maintaining normal body functions (e.g., “Fiber supports digestive health”).
   • Must include a disclaimer if the claim is not FDA-approved.
4. Free-From Claims:
   • Highlight the absence of certain ingredients or nutrients (e.g., “Gluten-Free,” “No Added Sugar”).
   • Require substantiation to ensure the claim is truthful.

Regulatory Requirements for Product Claims

1. United States (FDA):
   • Follow 21 CFR Part 101 for labeling and nutrient content claims.
   • Claims must be supported by nutritional analysis and adhere to FDA definitions.
   • Health claims must be pre-approved or based on authoritative statements.
2. Canada (Health Canada):
   • Meet the standards outlined in the Food and Drug Regulations (FDR).
   • Nutrient content claims must align with established thresholds (e.g., “source of,” “high in”).
   • Claims are subject to compliance monitoring by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
3. European Union (EU):
   • Comply with Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims.
   • Claims must be scientifically substantiated and included in the EU Register of Nutrition and Health Claims.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overstating Benefits: Avoid exaggerated claims that cannot be scientifically validated.
2. Neglecting Substantiation: Always have data or analysis to back up claims.
3. Ignoring Local Regulations: Labeling laws vary by country; ensure compliance in your target market.
4. Improper Formatting: Use the correct phrasing and placement for claims as specified by regulatory guidelines.

Best Practices for Declaring Product Claims

1. Conduct Nutritional Analysis:
   • Partner with a certified food lab to ensure accurate data for nutrient content claims.
2. Stay Updated on Regulations:
   • Regulatory standards evolve; stay informed about changes to avoid non-compliance.
3. Provide Context:
   • Use claims in conjunction with a balanced marketing message to avoid misleading consumers.
4. Seek Professional Guidance:
   • Consult with food labeling experts to ensure claims meet all regulatory requirements.

Final Thoughts

Declaring product claims on nutrition facts labels can elevate your brand and attract health-conscious consumers, but it requires careful attention to regulatory compliance. By following the guidelines outlined in this post and leveraging professional support, food producers can confidently make claims that are both accurate and compelling. Schedule a call with us to help guide you through product claims