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

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

An apple's natural dietary fibers are one of the bioactive components that lead to its being classified as a functional food.

From Salon

The industry, which has been expanding into functional food and health ingredients, typically offers strong growth, driven by consumers in emerging markets, with few cyclical swings.

From Reuters