functional food

American  

[fuhngk-shuh-nl food] / ˈfʌŋk ʃə nl ˈfud /

noun

1. a food that is fortified or enriched to provide beneficial properties beyond the nutritional value of the food in its unenhanced state: in some jurisdictions, as in Canada or Japan, functional foods must be labeled to specify the purported physiological benefits, including disease prevention or treatment.

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functional food British  

noun

1. Also called: nutraceutical.  a food containing additives which provide extra nutritional value

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Etymology

Origin of functional food

First recorded in 1985–90; translation of Japanese kinōsei-shokuhin, from kinōsei “functionality” (equivalent to kinō “function” + -sei, abstract noun suffix) + shokuhin “food”

Example Sentences

Because this enzyme directly affects how quickly sugars enter the bloodstream, the discovery points to possible new functional food ingredients aimed at managing type 2 diabetes.

From Science Daily

Their work highlights previously unknown anti-diabetic activity in coffee and adds new insight into its role as a functional food.

From Science Daily

The study helps position kimchi not only as a traditional fermented dish but as a functional food with scientifically demonstrated immune benefits.

From Science Daily

A recent study, which referred to carob as a “neglected legume of the Mediterranean Basin,” called it a functional food due to its fiber and mineral content.

From Seattle Times

Because apples contain many health-promoting bioactive substances, the fruit is considered a "functional" food.

From Salon