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

See Examples For:

functional food

We see permissible foods growing, we see functional food and beverages growing, we see portion control growing.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 9, 2026

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 ● Dec. 17, 2025

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 ● Apr. 8, 2024

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

From Salon ● Aug. 10, 2023

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 ● Jan. 25, 2023