Functional Foods : A Paradigm Shift for Health and Disease

Functional foods are a group of naturally nutrient-rich foods that enhance a person’s health better than conventional foods. Functional foods have gained popularity and played a vital role even in disease prevention and improvement of quality of life. This is a shift from the traditional concept that food is merely for growth and development. However, health claims of functional foods should be supported by solid scientific evidence. There are some foods which are considered functional foods but lack approved health claims from designated authorities. The various types and sources of functional foods and the corresponding scientific evidence of their health claims are discussed and reviewed in this article. In addition, various challenges and opportunities in the production of functional foods are also considered. Although functional foods are known to have a variety of health claims, it must be understood that they are not meant to be an elixir. It is only one of many factors that contribute to a healthy life.