Definition of Functional Food
By adding new ingredients or combining existing components, functional food is believed to serve a specific purpose, typically related to health promotion or disease prevention.
Definition of Functional Food by the Functional Food Center
The Functional Food Center defines “functional foods” as "natural or processed foods that contain biologically active compounds, which, in defined, effective, non-toxic amounts, provide a clinically proven and documented health benefit utilizing specific biomarkers to promote optimal health and reduce the risk of chronic/viral diseases and manage their symptoms."
Nutraceuticals and Their Role in Nutrition and Health
Nutraceuticals, often known as functional foods, are foods that provide both health and nutritional benefits, including mitigating the risk of chronic illnesses. Natural foods such as antioxidants, dietary supplements, fortified dairy products, and citrus fruits, as well as vitamins, minerals, and herbals, are examples of nutraceuticals. Oatmeal is classified as a functional food because its soluble fiber can assist in decreasing cholesterol levels, which is a benefit beyond the item's nutritional value. The meal was fortified in some way to boost its nutritional value.
Functional Food Product Approval Process
The basis of functional food certification is sampling and testing in ILAC-ISO 17025 accredited laboratories. These technical food laboratories will perform tests on the samples according to ACS and functional product requirements and will submit a complete report of the tests to ACS. Our technical team will approve or disapprove the product by reviewing the results and testing comparisons. If the result does not comply with requirements, a non-conformity report will be provided to the applicant. If the test results are confirmed, a functional food certificate is issued to the manufacturing company/producer, and the ACS functional food logo is awarded to the holder.
Benefits of Obtaining ACS Canada Certification
Obtaining ACS Canada certification can provide numerous benefits for food and agricultural product manufacturers and exporters. Some of these benefits include:
1. International Recognition: With the accredited test reports, food and agricultural products are recognized and receive international approval, which brings trust from global customers and buyers.
2. Access to Global Markets: This accredited test reports allows manufacturers to enter global markets, as many countries and international markets accept recognized standards like ACS as a criterion for product entry.
3. Increased Credibility and Consumer Trust: Having the ACS certification shows consumers that the product meets high standards and is functionally effective, confirmed by accredited laboratories. This leads to increased consumer trust and a higher likelihood of purchase.
4. Guaranteed Quality: The ACS certification ensures that the produced food products are of high quality and meet food safety and quality standards. This can also contribute to improving quality management in the production process.
5. More Effective Marketing and Advertising: With this certification, manufacturers can leverage it in marketing and advertising their products, using the global certification benefits to attract more customers.
6. Support for Sustainable Development: This certification can also help promote and develop the production of healthy and sustainable products, as ACS standards emphasize producing functional foods with proven health benefits.
7. Higher Competitiveness: Companies with ACS Canada certification have a competitive advantage over their rivals, as this certification demonstrates adherence to the highest safety and quality standards that many consumers prioritize.
8. Advancement in the Supply Chain: The ACS certification can help manufacturers be recognized as reputable suppliers in the supply chain, providing more opportunities for collaboration with international companies and brands.
For more information, please contact us at info@canadacerts.ca or call our North Vancouver office. We are here to guide you through the certification process and help your business reach new heights.
ACS employs accelerated learning methods to ensure a comprehensive grasp of all certificates. Our approach involves contextualizing your learning through a wide array of options, including classroom instruction, workshops, as well as interactive and online sessions.
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