The USFDA has permitted food manufacturers to advertise that yogurt may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, which is the most common type and is often found in overweight or obese adults. The recommended regular consumption for the general consumers is at least 2 cups per week. Diabetic patients, however, are still advised to use medicines as prescribed by the physicians, and to maintain an appropriate diet.

Concerning this matter, Mr. Lertchai Lertvut, Deputy Secretary-General of the Food and Drug Administration, said that the USFDA had reviewed academic evidence and research and found that there was limited scientific evidence suggesting that regular yogurt consumption may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, the USFDA does not object to marketing schemes on this matter, and has permitted clear displays of the following messages: “Regular consumption of at least 2 cups of yogurt per week may help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, based on the USFDA's conclusion on limited supporting evidence.” or “Regular consumption of  at least 2 cups of yogurt per week may help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, based on limited scientific evidence.” For this reason, the general consumers can consume yogurt according to the recommendation. However, diabetic patients are advised to use medicines as prescribed by the physicians, regulate body weight, avoid drinks containing alcohol, maintain an appropriate diet, and follow the physician’s advice. Plain yogurt with no added fruits or sugar is recommended for diabetic patients.

The Deputy Secretary-General added that the Food and Drug Administration currently allows health claims to a certain extent. It allows 28 nutrient function claims, 6 other function claims, and 2 reduction of disease risk claims. The regulation is in line with the Notification of the Ministry of Public Health No. 447, B.E. 2566 Re: Health Claims made on Food Labelling. Example claims include the followings: ‘Vitamin K helps with normal clotting of the blood’, ‘Beta glucan from oats helps reduce cholesterol absorption’, and ‘A diet low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure.’ Entrepreneurs who wish to make health claims other than those stipulated in the Notification of the Ministry of Public Health can apply for assessments of the effectiveness and appropriateness of such nutritional and health claims with the Center for Nutrition Assessment and Health Claims for Food Products of Thailand, under the Nutrition Development Foundation. This is to provide effective information for the FDA to consider granting permission.

***************************************
News Publication Date: 8 March 2024