This is good news.
The FDA recently announced that food makers can advertise yogurt as potentially reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes without facing objections. This decision came after Danone North America, the company behind popular yogurt brands, submitted a petition in 2018 seeking acknowledgment from the FDA for this claim. The FDA confirmed its non-opposition to this claim with certain conditions, including the requirement for a disclaimer stating the limited evidence supporting the claim and the recommendation of consuming two cups of yogurt per week for potential risk reduction.
The petition filed by Danone was part of the FDA’s process for “qualified health claims,” which allows companies to use specific language without needing the FDA’s approval, as long as it’s supported by evidence. Danone cited yogurt’s nutrient profile and studies supporting its link to a reduced risk of diabetes and related conditions. The FDA emphasized that the evidence supports yogurt’s health benefits as a whole food, independent of its fat or sugar content.
While yogurt can be a healthy option when consumed in its low-fat or unsweetened form, flavored yogurts with high levels of added sugars should be consumed in moderation. Excessive added sugar intake has been consistently linked to an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes. However, yogurt is also a component of the Mediterranean diet, which has been associated with a reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes in various studies.
Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, who provided scientific input during the petition process, commended the FDA’s decision, noting the growing evidence supporting the health benefits of fermented yogurt. He emphasized that while food can’t be marketed as a cure or prevention for disease, the recognition of food’s medicinal properties poses a regulatory challenge for both the food industry and the FDA.
Overall, the FDA’s decision allows for the promotion of yogurt as potentially beneficial in reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes, providing consumers with more information about the health benefits of this dairy product. However, it’s essential for consumers to be mindful of the type of yogurt they consume and to prioritize moderation, especially when it comes to flavored varieties with added sugars.
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