Europe

Europe's first generic health claim for soy products has been approved here following a decision taken by the country's self-regulating health claims body, the Joint Health Claims Initiative (JHCI).

The claim is based on scientific evidence submitted by the Soy Protein Association in conjunction with other UK and European trade associations.

It means soy products manufacturers that sell products in the UK and meet certain criteria are now able to label their products with the claim, "The inclusion of at least 25g of soya protein per day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat, can help reduce blood cholesterol levels." The claim also can be used in UK advertising campaigns.

JHCI Chairman Roger Manley said: "Examination of all the evidence and an independent decision is of great value to consumers. They no longer have to believe just what the seller tells them."

To carry the claim, products must contain a minimum of 6.25g of soy protein per serving and also state the level of soy protein per serving and its proportion of the recommended 25g/day.

Products must also have retained their naturally occurring isoflavones, meet the requirements for a 'low saturates' nutrient claim and not imply that consuming more or less than 25mg/day is advantageous.