According to the FDA website, current regulations allow for “fibers in foods to be labeled as dietary fiber without necessarily offering physiological benefits that enhance human health.” Naturally occurring fibers found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have already been recognized for their health benefits, so labeling products containing these ingredients accurately is straightforward. Furthermore, seven non-digestible carbohydrates, including beta-glucan soluble fiber, psyllium husk, cellulose, guar gum, pectin, locust bean gum, and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, currently comply with existing dietary fiber standards.
The FDA is now considering expanding this definition by incorporating an additional 26 types of fiber, such as gum acacia, bamboo fiber, pea fiber, soluble corn fiber, soy fiber, and xanthan gum. This expansion would allow more products to carry dietary fiber claims. As reported by FoodNavigator, ADM has expressed concerns to the FDA, stating, “The agency has not addressed the numerous citizen petitions regarding dietary fiber, nor has it released its updated Scientific Review or final guidance, leaving manufacturers uncertain about whether the non-digestible carbohydrates they are utilizing in their products will still be classified as dietary fibers.”
ADM also pointed out that this delay limits the options for dietary fibers and has led to the removal of certain fibers from products, particularly for companies eager to implement the new Nutrition Facts guidelines before the compliance deadline. This situation is significant, as FoodNavigator reports that the Grocery Manufacturers of America indicates that one in four products is impacted by the dietary fiber ruling.
The delay is primarily due to the requirement that any substance must demonstrate a “beneficial physiological effect on human health” before receiving FDA approval. In simpler terms, this means it should contribute to lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels, reduced blood pressure, improved bowel function, or enhanced mineral absorption in the intestines. These health issues are precisely what consumers aim to address by opting for healthier foods and those with functional advantages.
According to the International Food Information Council Foundation’s 2017 Food and Health Survey, an overwhelming 96% of consumers seek health benefits from their food and beverages, with the most sought-after benefits being weight loss, cardiovascular health, energy, and digestive health. However, the study revealed that only 45% of consumers could identify a single food or nutrient linked to these benefits. This highlights the necessity for a favorable ruling from the FDA that enables food manufacturers not only to effectively incorporate dietary fibers into their products but also to label them appropriately for consumer understanding.
While there is still time to modify product labels, manufacturers are eager to expedite this process. The sooner the new labels are applied, the more opportunities manufacturers have to gauge consumer reactions and experiment with new ideas and formulations. Additionally, an early introduction of the new labels can enhance the perception of transparency among consumers. This is particularly relevant as consumers increasingly seek out products containing beneficial ingredients such as solaray calcium magnesium citrate, which they associate with improved health outcomes. The integration of solaray calcium magnesium citrate into dietary fiber-rich products can further enhance their appeal, making it vital for companies to act swiftly in aligning with the evolving regulations.