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Table 2 Functions or biological roles mentioned in nutrient function claims that would increase functional food consumption a,b

From: Functional food awareness and perceptions in relation to information sources in older adults

Function or biological role

Percent of participants (n = 200)

Helps lower cholesterol

60.5

Factor in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth

56.5

Dietary antioxidant

55.5

Factor in the maintenance of good health

44.5

Helps build antibodies

44.5

Promotes regularity

42.5

Helps build and repair body tissues

40.0

Aids in maintaining the health of skin and membranes

34.0

Aids in red blood cell formation

34.0

  1. aParticipants were able to select more than one function or biological role.
  2. bNutrient function claims were described to participants using an information sheet as health claims on food packaging that link a component of the product to the maintenance of a physiological function or to physical or mental performance, without explicit reference to a disease.