抄録
Based on the Cabinet decision on June 14, 2013 indicated in Japan's Revitalization Strategy, Consumer Affairs Agency in the government of Japan has commenced studies on the new functionality labeling system for foods including agricultural, forestry and fishery products that "describes functionalities based on scientific evidence, quality and safety confirmation under corporate responsibility", referring to the US dietary supplement labeling system. Industries in the US are permitted by law to make structure/function claims for dietary supplements including vitamins, which describe their effects on the structure or function of the body, the biological mechanism, a benefit related to a nutrient deficient diseases or general well-being from the consumption of a nutrient or ingredient. Structure/function claims must be supported by credible scientific evidence and be truthful and not misleading. When used to promote a dietary supplement, the claim must be accompanied by a disclaimer "has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)" and that it is "not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease". FDA has exclusive jurisdiction over the safety of dietary supplements and primary responsibility for claims on product labeling. Structure/function claims are not drug claims, but using dietary supplements and public awareness has indicated a possibility of significant medical cost reduction in the US. It is strongly suggested that expected reduction of both health problems and medical cost could improve quality of life.
