2 Defining functional foods.

D. G. MEDCALF. Healthcomm International, Inc., Gig Harbor, WA 98335.

Using the definiton that Functional Foods are “foods specifically formulated to provide health benefits beyond conventional nutrition,” it is clear that products fitting this definition are marketed in the United States as conventional foods, medical foods, and dietary supplements. This presentation will discuss the differences among these product categories in terms of regulatory status, consumer communications, and claim support. An overview of the literature supporting the potential health benefits of such products, and a discussion of safety issues, will be included.