FDA Study to Approve the Health Claim that Soy Based Products May Reduce the Risk of Cancer

Miami, Florida, United States…[Joel Zukovski]

On April 16, 2004, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed that they are in the process of reviewing a petition for a health claim that suggests the consumption of soy protein-based products may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer (breast, prostate and colon cancer). 

Approved health claims, which can be used in product labeling and packaging, can provide essential information to customers as it relates to dietary choices and disease prevention.   The petition for the review was made by the Health & Nutrition and Nutraceuticals team of the SOLAE Company.

Many countries are witnessing a change in the consumption of fish, fowl and animal foods for vegetable-based analogues determined to share the place of meat at the center of each plate.  Meat substitutes generated over US$300 million dollars in 2001 and it is expected to increase.  Only 2.5% of the population claims to be vegetarian.  Many others are using meat substitutes, not only as a way of reducing the consumption of meat, but for health reasons, taste and variety.

In 1999, the FDA approved the labeling of products that may reduce the risk of heart disease with 6.25 grams of soy protein per day.  This has made a great impact in consumer choices.

The other important factor is the convenience of preparing and combining these products with other kinds of foods.  This brings variety and enjoyment of daily meals.