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| Nutrition:
the foundation of good health |
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Nutrition
is now recognised as a major influence on health and well being. Providing
the necessary nutrients in the required amounts is of even greater importance
when the consumers belong to a group with particular requirements such as
babies, sportspeople or obese people. |
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The
improvement in health brought about by the use of dietetic foods contributes
to the reduction of health care costs. Obvious examples are shortening of
time in hospital by improving the nutritional status of some patients and
the reduction in obesity related diseases. |
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| Safety:
a priority |
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Consumer
trust is the basis upon which the market for foods for special dietary needs
is built. |
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In response to
the vulnerable nature of those who eat dietetic foods, special measures,
either voluntary or legislative, have been initiated by industry to provide
consumer protection in the selection of ingredients, formulation, the addition
of appropriate nutrients, production processes, and the provision of consumer
information. Principles for appropriate marketing have also been established. |
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| Framework:
specific legislation |
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The
food industry is one of the most regulated sectors in the European Union.
Legislation covers hygiene, additives, labelling, advertising etc. |
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Because
of its important contribution to public health, additional legislation covering
the composition, production, labelling and marketing of dietetic foods has
been introduced and harmonised in the EU since 1989.
This guarantees safe and effective use of these products by appropriate
consumers in all EU countries. |
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This
level of regulatory control supports the industry aim of consumer trust. |
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