An Overview Functional Foods Definitions. There is no accepted international definition of functional foods. For example, dairy foods can be said to be functional because of their content of calcium.
Several factors help explain why functional foods is one of the fastest growing categories of foods.
Ready access to nutrition and medical information through widespread media coverage, the internet, and other avenues. Recent legislative events such as government regulations which have changed how foods are marketed and labeled. By 2030, an estimated one-third of the U.S. population will be over 65 years of age and this population is particularly interested in functional foods to improve health. Consumers are becoming more responsible for their own health and are taking an active role in improving heir health through foods. Types and Promising Benefits of Functional Foods.