HOOK

What if the foods you eat every day could help support your overall health beyond providing basic nutrients?Functional foods are designed to deliver additional health benefits as part of a balanced diet.

HISTORY / ORIGIN

Functional food gained global attention in the 1980s, particularly in Japan, where foods with added health benefits were developed to support overall wellness. Today, functional foods are widely available in supermarkets and health food markets worldwide.

TYPES OF FUNCTIONAL FOODS

• Probiotic foods

• Prebiotic foods

• Fortified foods with added vitamins and minerals

• Omega-3 enriched foods

• High-fiber foods

• Antioxidant-rich foods

MATERIALS / KEY FEATURES

• Natural ingredients with beneficial nutrients

• Added vitamins and minerals in fortified products

• Probiotics and prebiotics for gut health

• Bioactive compounds such as antioxidants and plant extracts

• Available in dairy products, cereals, beverages, and snacks

• Designed to complement a balanced diet

BENEFITS / WHY CHOOSE IT

✔ Supports overall health and wellness✔ Helps maintain digestive health✔ Provides additional essential nutrients✔ May support immune system function✔ Convenient way to include beneficial nutrients in daily meals

CARE / USAGE TIPS

• Read nutrition labels to understand ingredients and nutrient content

• Include a variety of functional foods as part of a balanced diet

• Store products according to package instructions

• Avoid relying on functional foods as a substitute for healthy eating habits

• Consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary needs or medical conditions

ENGAGEMENT QUESTION

Which functional food do you include most often in your diet: probiotic yogurt, high-fiber cereals, fortified foods, or omega-3 rich foods?