According to information from the FDA website, current regulations state that “fibers in foods could be labeled as dietary fiber without necessarily demonstrating physiological effects that are beneficial to human health.” Naturally occurring fibers, such as those found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are already recognized for their health benefits, making accurate labeling for products containing these ingredients straightforward. Additionally, seven non-digestible carbohydrates—beta-glucan soluble fiber, psyllium husk, cellulose, guar gum, pectin, locust bean gum, and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose—currently comply with the existing dietary fiber criteria. The FDA is contemplating expanding this definition by including an additional 26 types of fiber, such as acacia gum, bamboo fiber, pea fiber, soluble corn fiber, soy fiber, and xanthan gum, which would allow more products to claim dietary fiber content.
According to FoodNavigator, ADM has expressed concerns to the FDA, stating, “The agency has not responded to 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 have incorporated into their products will still be considered dietary fibers.” ADM noted that this delay restricts dietary fiber options and has even led some companies to remove dietary fibers from their products as they aim to align with the new Nutrition Facts guidelines ahead of the compliance deadline. This is significant, as Food Navigator reports that the Grocery Manufacturers of America indicates one in four products is impacted by the dietary fiber ruling.
The delay primarily arises from the requirement that any substance must demonstrate a “beneficial physiological effect to 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. Many of these health issues are precisely what consumers aim to address by choosing healthier foods with functional benefits.
The International Food Information Council Foundation’s 2017 Food and Health Survey revealed that nearly all consumers—96%—are looking for health benefits in their food and beverages, with the top priorities being weight loss, cardiovascular health, energy, and digestive health. However, only 45% of consumers could identify a single food or nutrient linked to these benefits. This highlights the critical need for a satisfactory ruling from the FDA that enables food manufacturers to effectively incorporate dietary fibers into their products and appropriately label them for consumer benefit.
While there is still time to modify labels, manufacturers are likely eager to act quickly. After all, the longer they have to implement the new label, the more opportunities they gain to understand consumer preferences and test new ideas and formulations, such as how to take ccm tablets effectively. The sooner the new label appears on products, the more aligned they may seem with the trend toward transparency, which is increasingly valued by consumers.