Food health claims investigated
Feb
9
Written by:
09/02/2012 12:48
Scientists are investigating ways in which health foods can be made even better in the future.
Scientists are investigating ways in which health foods can be made even better in the future.
Under new rules developed by the European Food Safety Authority in 2006, displaying any foodstuff as having health properties has become much more of a challenge for the food industry.
Aberdeen University's Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health is developing new methods to help the industry gain scientific proof of any health benefits.
Scientists are particularly looking at the effects of novel carbohydrates - such as those found in pro-biotic yoghurts and cereals - on the bacteria which live in our digestive systems.
The scheme is part of a Europe-wide programme taking in universities and research bodies. Dr Petra Louis from the Rowett Institute said: "Developing food ingredients and products that are beneficial to the human gut and immune system is crucially important because of their potentially positive impact on quality of life."
Copyright Press Association 2012