6 Consumer education about functional foods.

M. E. CAMIRE. Dept. of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5736.

Functional foods, nutraceuticals, super foods, phytochemicals – do consumers understand the nature and advantages of these products? These terms are not recognized by national governments and thus are not incorporated into nutrition education programs. Structure-function claims are widely used on foods, but little is known about their influence on consumers. Consumers could become jaded about possible health benefits and forsake healthy foods for those that are convenient and/or tasty. One educational strategy is to demonstrate how functional foods fit in with the Food Pyramid and Dietary Goals. Cereal foods are not consumed in sufficient quantities by many Americans, yet these foods offer many health benefits, which can be further enhanced with fortification. The 21st century offers many opportunities for both consumers and food manufacturers, and education can enhance these opportunities for all.