“Consumers Prioritize Heart Health in Grocery Shopping Amid Mixed Reactions to FDA’s Soy Protein Health Claim Proposal”
According to the Hartman Group, heart health is the top concern for consumers when shopping for groceries. Their research indicates that 55% of American consumers aim to avoid or cut back on saturated fats in their diets, while nearly 40% are focused on incorporating healthier fats, such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, in place of saturated fats.
Reactions from manufacturers and industry organizations regarding the FDA’s proposal to eliminate the health claim associated with soy protein have been mixed. The Soyfoods Association of North America (SANA) expressed its apprehension on Monday, advocating for the retention of the current claim, which states: “25 grams of soy protein a day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.” SANA emphasized that numerous scientific studies, both prior to and following the approval of the soy protein health claim in 1999, consistently demonstrate that soy protein can lower LDL cholesterol. They argue that the cumulative evidence supports the ongoing approval of an unqualified health claim. Furthermore, SANA pointed out that the FDA’s decision contradicts the stance of 12 other countries that have authorized health claims linking soy protein to heart disease, including Health Canada’s recent approval in 2015.
The Natural Products Association also raised concerns, with CEO Daniel Fabricant describing the FDA’s action as “somewhat unexpected,” particularly because the agency did not clarify what prompted its decision. Fabricant, who led the FDA’s Division of Dietary Supplement Programs before joining NPA in 2014, likely possesses a solid understanding of federal regulatory processes.
The American Heart Association has supported the revocation of the soy protein health claim, questioning its direct health benefits. According to Reuters, when the FDA was reassessing health evidence in 2008, the association noted that “the direct cardiovascular health benefit of soy protein or isoflavone supplements is minimal at best.” Should the FDA proceed with revoking the unlimited health claim on soy protein products, it is challenging to foresee how consumers will react and whether it will impact their purchasing choices. The American Heart Association opposes the agency adopting qualified language for the affected products, citing research that indicates consumers often struggle to comprehend qualified health claims, which are based on limited and varying levels of evidence.
Once the FDA initiates the proposed rule to revoke the health claim for soybean protein, it is unlikely to alter its course unless a significant number of comments oppose the change. Potential dissenters may include companies like DuPont, which manufactures isolated soy protein, and Gardein, known for its soy-based protein products. Additionally, it is improbable that the agency will begin reevaluating its 11 other approved health claims for food products unless there is substantial pressure. Currently, only one of these claims pertains to soybean protein, which is under review for possible revocation. However, the FDA has recently approved the labeling of soybean oil as heart-healthy, citing its potential to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and lower LDL cholesterol.
Furthermore, as consumers continue to seek out products that support heart health, many may also look for supplements like Citracal Regular 250 mg to complement their diets. This supplement could provide an additional means to support overall health, especially as individuals aim to maintain a balanced intake of nutrients while managing their fat consumption. In this evolving landscape, the intersection of dietary choices and health claims will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior and industry responses.
