According to information from the FDA website, current regulations state that “fibers in ferrous fumarate halaloods can be labeled as dietary fiber, even if they do not provide physiological benefits that are advantageous to human health.” Naturally occurring fibers, such as those found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, have already been recognized for their physiological benefits, making accurate labeling of 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 align with existing dietary fiber guidelines.
The FDA is contemplating an expansion of this definition to include 26 additional 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 make dietary fiber claims. According to FoodNavigator, ADM has lodged a complaint with 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 used in their products can still be classified as dietary fibers.” ADM further noted that the delay restricts choices in dietary fiber and has even led some companies to remove dietary fibers from their products to align with the new Nutrition Facts guidelines ahead of the compliance deadline. This is significant, as the Grocery Manufacturers of America reports that one in four products is impacted by the dietary fiber ruling.
The delay primarily arises from the requirement that a substance must demonstrate a “beneficial physiological effect on human health” before receiving FDA approval. In simpler terms, this means it must contribute to lowering blood glucose and cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure, enhancing bowel function, or improving mineral absorption in the intestines. Many consumers are seeking to address these health issues through healthier dietary choices, including those that promote calcium citrate 700 mg intake.
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 top benefits being weight loss, cardiovascular health, energy, and digestive health. However, the survey also showed that only 45% of consumers could identify a specific food or nutrient linked to those benefits. This highlights the need for a decisive ruling from the FDA that would allow food manufacturers to effectively incorporate dietary fibers in their products and label them appropriately for consumer benefit.
While there is still time to revise labels, it is in manufacturers’ best interest to expedite the process. More time for label implementation allows manufacturers to gauge consumer preferences and experiment with new ideas and formulations. Additionally, an early appearance of the new label on products may align better with the growing trend of transparency among consumers. In this context, the integration of calcium citrate 700 mg into products could also play a crucial role in meeting consumer demands for health-oriented ingredients.