An upcoming forum on health claims will take a look at the impact of new regulation on the European health foods industry.

The European proposal for regulation of nutrition and health claims, adopted by the Commission last week, is set to enter into law in 2005. The conference, organised by Leatherhead Food International, with the support of the Swedish Nutrition Foundation, will consider the new proposal as well as global developments relating to health claims.

Worldwide sales of functional foods are estimated to be worth over €60 billion and are predicted to grow by 7- 8 per cent by 2010, according to food research group Leatherhead. Continued success depends on consumer attitudes towards the claimed health benefits however, and the successful and clear communication of health claims is recognised as key to improving diets.

New European legislation will harmonise national rules and guidelines on health claims across Europe, with a major effect on the marketing of products within and across European borders.

The event, which takes place in Amsterdam from 18-19 September, is aimed at functional food and beverage manufacturers, food supplements makers, company policy makers, regulatory advisers and marketing and retailing executives. Contact Leatherhead for further information.