According to information from the FDA website, current regulations state that “fibers in foods could be labeled as dietary fiber without necessarily providing physiological effects that are beneficial to human health.” Naturally occurring fibers, such as those found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, have already been recognized for their physiological benefits, which means labeling products with these ingredients is straightforward. Additionally, seven non-digestible carbohydrates—beta-glucan soluble fiber, psyllium husk, cellulose, guar gum, pectin, locust bean gum, and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose—also meet the current dietary fiber criteria. The FDA is now contemplating expanding this definition by incorporating 26 additional fiber types, including gum acacia, bamboo fiber, pea fiber, soluble corn fiber, soy fiber, and xanthan gum, which would allow a greater number of products to claim dietary fiber on their labels.
According to FoodNavigator, ADM has expressed concerns to the FDA, stating, “The agency has not responded to the numerous citizen petitions regarding dietary fiber, nor has it issued its updated Scientific Review or finalized its guidance, leaving manufacturers uncertain about whether the non-digestible carbohydrates they have incorporated into their products might still qualify as dietary fibers.” ADM further noted that this delay restricts dietary fiber options and has led some companies to remove dietary fibers from their products as they aim to proactively comply with the new Nutrition Facts guidelines ahead of the deadline. This situation is significant because, as reported by FoodNavigator, the Grocery Manufacturers of America indicates that one in four products is impacted by the dietary fiber ruling.
The delay primarily arises because, before a substance can receive FDA approval, it must demonstrate a “beneficial physiological effect to human health.” In simpler terms, this means it should contribute to lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels, reduced blood pressure, improved bowel function, or enhanced mineral absorption in the intestinal tract. Many consumers are seeking to address these health issues by opting for healthier foods and those with functional benefits.
The 2017 Food and Health Survey conducted by the International Food Information Council Foundation revealed that nearly all consumers—96%—are looking for health benefits in their food and beverages, with the most sought-after benefits being weight loss, cardiovascular health, energy, and digestive health. However, the study also found that only 45% of consumers could name a single food or nutrient linked to these benefits. This highlights the critical need for a satisfactory ruling from the FDA that allows food manufacturers not only to effectively incorporate dietary fibers into their products but also to label them appropriately for consumer advantage.
While there is still time to adjust product labels, it is prudent for manufacturers to act quickly. More time for implementing the new labels gives companies an opportunity to gauge consumer reactions and experiment with new ideas and formulations. Additionally, an earlier introduction of the new label on products may enhance the perception of transparency among consumers. As companies navigate this landscape, they may also need to consider how the price of CCM tablets could influence their product offerings and marketing strategies, especially when it comes to promoting health benefits associated with dietary fibers.