Foods eaten for specified health purposes because of their (rich) content of one or more nutrients or non-nutrient substances which may confer health benefits.
Is any fresh or processed food claimed to have a health-promoting or disease preventing property beyond the basic function of supplying nutrients. Also called medicinal food.
A food item that has pharmacological activity (in addition to its nutritional value).
Foods that have functions beyond the ones conferred by the nutrients they contain. These foods may play a role in, for example, vision protection, cancer prevention, or some other aspect of life.
Food products with additives for which, following FDA approval, health claims can be made.
Foods that have added health benefits beyond their nutritional value.
Referred to as nutraceuticals, these items are marketed for their purported health-enhancing properties or capacity to prevent diseases, surpassing their fundamental role of providing energy and essential nutrients. Frequently, these health benefits are attributed to the inclusion of supplementary herbs, minerals, vitamins, and similar components.