New eating habits, production, and consumption trends now have impacts on health, the environment, and society. Every modern civilization is fighting obesity, osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes, allergies, and dental problems. Developed or not, countries also face challenges related to aging populations, high energy foods, and unbalanced diets. This article will talk about what Nutraceuticals and Functional foods are, and answer all the commonly asked questions on them.
I've heard the term "functional foods," but I don't know what it means. Can you explain?
Functional foods are foods that, in addition to the basic diet, have potentially positive effects on health. Functional foods are foods that have been given an additional function by adding new or more ingredients to existing ones. The term can also be applied to traits that are intentionally grown on existing edible plants, such as purple or gold potatoes with reduced anthocyanin or carotenoid content.
How are “functional foods” different from “Nutraceuticals”?
Functional foods are defined as products that are similar to traditional foods but have proven physiological benefits. Nutraceuticals, however, are products derived from food but are used in
the medicinal form of pills, capsules, or liquids and, in turn, have proven physiological benefits.
Are functional food and nutraceuticals safe for consumption?
A well-known example of functional food is oatmeal, as it contains soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol levels. Some foods are modified to provide health benefits. An example is an orange juice fortified with calcium for bone health. The Food and Drug Administration regulates the claims that manufacturers can make about the nutritional content of functional foods and the effects on disease, health, or bodily functions. Hence functional food is absolutely safe!
Nutraceuticals have been used for the prevention and treatment of diseases in humans and animals for thousands of years. Nutraceuticals may include:
● Herbal products such as garlic and ginger
● Prebiotics
● Probiotics
● Hydrolyzed proteins and more
● Vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements
● Fiber
● Phytonutrients
Nutraceuticals are typically natural substances. Unlike drugs, nutraceuticals are not synthesized for a specific purpose. Nutraceuticals are generally safe and help maintain good health. Its main positive aspect is that they can be consumed by anyone without worrying about side effects and without consulting a doctor.
For more articles on food Marketing, agrotech, and technology related to the Indian food industry, check out FMTmagazine. FMT Magazine is an edition of the German publication. It is a comprehensive food and beverage magazine that connects the buyers and the sellers through content that is of international quality. The magazine over the entire spectrum of the food industry including content on policies. FMT Magazine stands for Food Marketing & Technology Magazine. The magazine carries articles on ingredients, processing, packaging, food safety, and marketing, along with interviews with top personalities in the Indian food industry.
