Current legislation in the European context: a focus on food labeling, novel foods, nutrition, and health claims

According to the WHO, ‘Nutrition labeling can be useful in orienting consumers to products that contribute to a healthier diet’. In the European Union, the labeling rules enable the consumer to get understandable information about the content and composition of food products. While choosing food, the labeling can help consumers to make an informed choice. This chapter analyzed the most recent and important European legislation related to food supplements and nutraceuticals, mainly focusing on food labeling (Reg.1169/2011), nutrition and health claims made on foods (Reg. 1924/2006), food supplements (Dir. 2002/46) and novel foods (Reg.2015/2283). The legal framework appears quite complex and detailed, and the analysis indicates the need to investigate consumer perception and the understanding of the information provided on food labels and how much this information really affects consumer food choices.