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.

---

functional food British  

noun

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

---

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 • 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

"Sweet potatoes are considered a functional food, as they contain many nutrients that human beings need for optimal health," says Jared T. Meacham, Ph.D.,

From Fox News • Feb. 6, 2022