Functional foods (FFs) have become an indispensable part of modern life, helping to support health and prevent diseases. However, the development and use of these products cannot solely rely on promises from manufacturers or unsubstantiated information. Clinical trials play a critical role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of FFs, yet not all products undergo this rigorous process. Skipping clinical trials poses numerous risks, not only to consumers but also to the entire FF industry. Below, the Academy of Medical Sciences analyzes these risks in detail.
Although functional foods are not classified as drugs, they still contain active ingredients that can significantly affect the body. Without clinical trials, manufacturers cannot determine:
For instance, a weight-loss product containing stimulants that hasn’t undergone clinical trials could cause arrhythmia, high blood pressure, or severe liver damage.
Many FFs on the market today are advertised with exaggerated claims that far exceed their actual capabilities. Without clinical trials, consumers are easily deceived by unverified promises, leading to ineffective use of the product and wasted money.
A FF brand that skips clinical trials cannot provide convincing scientific evidence. When consumers realize these products do not deliver as promised or harm their health, trust in the brand diminishes significantly.
If a product causes severe harm, lawsuits or investigations can severely damage the company’s image and reputation. Negative information spreads quickly through the media, eroding public trust in the entire FF industry.
Some businesses may cut costs by skipping clinical trials, allowing them to offer cheaper products. This undermines companies that adhere to rigorous research and testing processes, leading to an unfair marketplace.
Functional foods without clinical trials may face skepticism from healthcare professionals and scientists regarding their safety and efficacy. This hinders collaboration between the FF industry and healthcare organizations, slowing the research and development of new products.
In many countries, introducing a health-related product to the market without adequate scientific evidence is illegal. Regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Vietnam’s Food Safety Authority, often require products to meet safety and efficacy standards before approval.
Products that have not undergone clinical trials are more likely to be recalled due to reports of side effects or failure to meet post-market inspection standards. This results in significant financial and reputational losses for the business.
The Academy of Medical Sciences recommends that businesses follow standardized clinical trial phases, including:
Companies can collaborate with institutions like the Academy of Medical Sciences to conduct in-depth clinical studies, ensuring transparency and scientific validity for their products.
Consumers should be guided on how to verify information about FFs, including demanding evidence of clinical trials before use.
Failing to conduct clinical trials for functional foods not only jeopardizes consumer health but also severely impacts the credibility of businesses and the development of the FF industry. To ensure long-term benefits, manufacturers must adhere to scientific and legal standards, particularly by conducting rigorous clinical trials.
The Academy of Medical Sciences is committed to working alongside businesses and research organizations to build a transparent, safe, and effective functional food market, restoring trust among consumers and the medical community alike.
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