The Soy Health Claim
In October 1999, FDA approved a health claim that can
be used on labels of soy-based foods to tout their heart-healthy
benefits. The agency reviewed research from 27 studies
that showed soy protein's value in lowering levels of
total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL,
or "bad" cholesterol), and the ability to create a a
healthy heart with soy
Food marketers can now use the following claim, or
a reasonable variation, on their products: "Diets low
in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 25 grams
of soy protein a day may reduce the risk of heart disease.
One serving of (name of food) provides __ grams of soy
protein." To qualify for the claim foods must contain
per serving:
- 6.25 grams of soy protein
- low fat (less than 3 grams)
- low saturated fat (less than 1 gram)
- low cholesterol (less than 20 milligrams)
- sodium value of less than 480 milligrams for individual
foods, less than 720 milligrams if considered a main
dish, and less than 960 milligrams if considered a
meal.
Foods made with the whole soybean, such as tofu, may
qualify for the claim if they have no fat other than
that naturally present in the whole bean.
This article was originaly published in the FDA
Consumer and may be republished without permission.
What are the other ways that we can avoid heart disease?
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