OUR DECALOGUE OF THE "FUNCTIONAL FOOD"

After our previous entrances, in those that have tried to analyze the origin, evolution and problematic of the "functional foods", we want to propose a questionnaire model, by way of "Decalogue" that should be applied to any food that wants to be considered as functional, to check that indeed it can be it. That "Decalogue" contains questions of diverse nature, some can be checked by the own consumer, but most is dedicated to the experts and responsible authorities of "granting" to certain products the quality of "functional".

1. Does the functional (F) food, really have a composition different to the non functional same food?.

2. Is this difference, clearly defined in the information that it offers us the label of F?.

3. Is the correctly identified/s substance/s whose presence grants to the food the condition of F?

4. Is it correctly defined the "functionality" that contributes happiness substance/s to considered F?.

5. Is it about a "specific" or "very general" functionality?.

6. According to this "functionality", is it does present/s hapiness subtance/s in F in enough quantity to get it through a daily intake during a certain period of time?.

7. Is it defined, does it suggest or does it indicate in some way wich that period of minimum time is to be able to observe the beneficial effets of F?.

8. The quantity/ies it of functional substance/s is it added F, is it defined keeping in mind their metabolism and biovailabitily, considering that these parameters determine their true effectiveness?

9. If the substance/s added in enough quantity the toxicity absence is sufficiently contrasted after a lingering consumption?.

10. Does the "healthy" objective to get for F, require the participation of other elements, substances, activities or "behaviours", or can it only be achieved through its consumption?.

We would like this "Decalogue" to constitute a base to elaborate new positions to value the "personality" and real effectiveness of the functional foods. We would want our readers to suggest us new questions that to add here to those shown. We wait your comments and suggestions.