FDA Officially Adds Vitamin D to Calcium Health Claim

WASHINGTON—FDA has finalized the amendment to add vitamin D to the approved health claim for calcium and reduced risk of osteoporosis, and also approved an additional health claim for the nutrient pair and osteoporosis. The agency also removed certain labeling requirements associated with the claim, including disclosure of information on various risk factors, target population and maximal benefit levels.

Partly in response to a petition filed by the Beverage Institute for Health and Wellness, this final rule contains guidelines for labeling of health claims authorized under the rule, including some examples of specific claims that can be used on products. Published Sept. 20, the rule is effective Jan. 1, 2010.