Glossary · Regulation
Health claim
In short
A health claim is an advertising statement that a food or nutrient benefits health, such as “contributes to the normal function of the immune system”. In the EU, only claims that have been assessed and authorized are allowed.
The basis is Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. EFSA examines whether a relationship is scientifically substantiated; the authorized wordings are listed in Regulation (EU) No 432/2012. Deviating, stronger statements are not permitted.
Many substances from the biohacking scene have no authorized health claim, such as plant extracts or newer longevity substances. For vitamins and minerals, by contrast, there are many. But the list only governs advertising: a missing claim does not mean “does not work”, and an authorized one does not mean “helps with complaints”.
Statements that a food can prevent, treat or cure diseases are prohibited in principle.
A health claim is a permitted wording, not a therapy.
Where this comes up in the fact checks
- Iron – The regulation permits seven health claims, including blood formation, oxygen transport and reduction of tiredness.
- Citicoline – In 2024 EFSA assessed an application for a claim on memory and rejected it.
- Berberine – No authorized health claim exists; in 2023 the Heilbronn Regional Court prohibited the advertising of a product.
Sources
Related terms: Novel food · § 3a HWG (German Medicinal Products Advertising Act)
Information only, not medical advice. The BK-Score is a subjective assessment according to disclosed rules – not a scientific evaluation. Scoring rules