Claims regarding specific health issues are strictly regulated by the FDA. The words “may” and “might” must appear as a part of such claims.

These claims are powerful. If a product meets the criteria, its label can state that the product may prevent cancer, or brain damage, or heart disease. These claims are exciting, but it’s important to note that these products do nothing in terms of prevention unless combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Many products link themselves to prevention of a certain disease. Claims regarding osteoporosis must contain 200 milligrams, or 20 percent of the daily value of calcium, and must be low in fat. Low-fat, low–saturated fat, and low-cholesterol foods and extra-lean meats may claim to help prevent cancer and coronary heart disease.

These claims can also be made for high-fiber foods that meet the “low-fat” criterion and the “good source” criterion for fiber and vitamin A or vitamin C. Soy protein products for the prevention of cancer must meet the low-fat criterion and carry at least 6.25 grams of soy protein per serving.

Other Claims

“Percent fat-free” products must meet the low-fat or fat-free criterion. The percentage used must reflect the amount of fat in 100 grams of the product.

Some products try to imply health. Stating a product is made with a nutritious product, such as soy or bran, is not allowed unless the product can meet the “good source” criterion.

The term “fresh” can be used if the product is raw or unprocessed. This means it has never been frozen or heated, and it contains no preservatives. This is used in products like fresh mozzarella cheese, sold in brine, and dated for freshness.

Fresh-frozen products are frozen while still fresh in the orchards or on fishing boats. Some blanched and low-irradiated products may be called fresh as well.