Choline Receives Nutrient Content Claim

Choline Receives Nutrient Content Claim

WASHINGTON--The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized that products containing the B vitamin choline can carry a nutrient content claim. This is the first such claim to be authorized under FDA's Modernization Act (FDAMA). The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) has already recognized choline as an essential nutrient linked to cardiovacular health, improved liver function and reproductive development. Qualifying foods and supplements will now be able to claim choline-containing products are a "good source" or "excellent source of choline."

Balchem Corp., a manufacturer of dietarycholine, commended FDA's decision. "Consumers around the world want nutrients that enhance performance and help prevent specific health problems," said PatriciaSiuta-Cruce, Ph.D., vice president of technology for Balchem (www.balchem.com). "The FDA's labeling guidelines provide consumers with a critical tool to help them identify products containingcholine, which is essential for promoting health benefits."