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Which of the following statements is a health claim that the FDA allows on a food package?

1) This product can cure any disease.
2) Consuming this product can improve heart health.
3) This product guarantees weight loss.
4) Eating this product will make you taller.

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

The FDA allows health claims like "Consuming this product can improve heart health" on food packages, provided they are backed by scientific evidence and don't imply guaranteed results, such as curing diseases or causing specific body changes without substantial scientific backing and approval.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options provided, the health claim that the FDA allows on a food package is "Consuming this product can improve heart health." This type of claim can be allowed if there is scientific evidence suggesting that the food or its ingredients could potentially have a positive impact on heart health. The FDA closely regulates health claims on food packages to ensure they are not misleading. Claims stating that a product can definitively cure diseases, guarantee weight loss, or alter physical attributes like height are not allowed without substantial scientific backing and approval.

Food labels may include structural, functional, and nutritional information, but they are also required to include disclaimers if the product is intended to influence the structure or function of the body. The disclaimer would typically state that the food is not "intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease." Additionally, the claims must be based on well-validated scientific evidence, and the FDA may take action to remove supplements from the market if they are proven to be hazardous.

Foods that are considered functional foods may include health-related claims if they meet the specific criteria and are supported by scientific evidence. However, no health claims are permitted if they lack this backing or imply guaranteed results, such as curing diseases or causing specific body changes like increased height.

User Charlie OConor
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