Global view on functional foods: Asian perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Food Science
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The ancient concept of 'medicine and food are isogenic' is being scientifically validated.
• Life-style related diseases are a growing concern globally.
• Functional foods aim to mitigate health risks through dietary intake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the recent trends in functional foods within Asia.
• To highlight the scientific endorsement and policy development of functional foods.
• To focus on the specific developments in Japan regarding functional foods.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific research on functional foods.
• Analysis of national policies and approval systems for functional foods in Asian countries.
• Case study focusing on Japan's approach to functional foods.

Main Results:

• Japan has scientifically endorsed the concept, leading to the development of functional foods.
• A national policy for Foods for Specified Health Use (FOSHU) was established in Japan.
• China has developed its own unique system for approving functional foods.

Conclusions:

• Functional foods represent a significant trend in Asia, merging traditional concepts with modern science.
• National policies and regulatory frameworks are crucial for the advancement of functional foods.
• Japan's experience provides a model for other Asian countries in functional food development and regulation.