Chocolate Health Claims Under Review for Use on Product Labels

Some research has linked chocolate consumption to reduced risks of diabetes, stroke and heart attack. Unfortunately, the evidence for some of these health benefits comes from short-term studies. Barry Callebaut AG has conducted more than 20 studies since 2005

28 Sep 2012 --- Gunther Grant, Inc. like all of its colleagues in the chocolate industry are waiting on the official word from the European Food Safety Authority that health benefits associated with chocolate consumption can be printed on product packaging.  In July, Swiss confectioner Barry Callebaut AG won the backing of the European Food Safety Authority for its claim that dark chocolate is good for blood circulation. While the request to use the health claim in marketing  efforts is still being reviewed, experts agree that with the agency's blessing there will be an uptick in chocolate sales once health claims are added to product  labels.

Flavanols in cocoa beans have antioxidant effects that reduce cell damage implicated in heart disease.  Flavanols, which are more prevalent in dark chocolate than in milk chocolate or white chocolate, also help lower blood pressure and improve vascular function.  Some research has linked chocolate consumption to reduced risks of diabetes, stroke and heart attack.  Unfortunately, the evidence for some of these health benefits comes from short-term studies.  Barry Callebaut AG has conducted more than 20 studies since 2005.

"Receiving the European Food Safety Authority support is a huge win for the chocolate industry. As our society becomes more health conscious, consumers are taking the time to read labels.  If we are able to print health benefits on product labels our business opportunity becomes even stronger," stated Grant Newsteder, CEO of Gunther Grant,  Inc.