EU Nutrition & Health Claims Registration Guide 2025

Understanding how to register nutrition and health claims in the European Union is critical for food and supplement companies aiming to build trust and access European markets. With evolving EU regulations in 2025, compliance has become more structured—and more essential than ever.

What Are Nutrition and Health Claims?

Nutrition claims describe the nutritional properties of a food (e.g., ‘rich in vitamin C’), while health claims link a food component to a specific health benefit (e.g., ‘supports immune function’). Both must be scientifically substantiated and authorized by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

Why Registration Matters in the EU Market

Registering claims ensures legal compliance, strengthens consumer trust, and avoids costly penalties. Since 2023, stricter EFSA guidelines demand robust scientific evidence, making registration a non-negotiable step for market entry. The EU’s focus on transparency supports E-A-T principles by prioritizing accurate, reliable information.

The Official EU Registration Process—Step by Step

Step 1: Identify Eligible Claims

Only claims pre-approved by EFSA or listed in the EU Register of Nutrition and Health Claims are valid. As of 2025, the list includes claims for antioxidants, probiotics, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Companies must align their messaging strictly with approved terminology.

Step 2: Gather Scientific Evidence

A comprehensive dossier—including clinical studies, toxicology data, and chemical analysis—is required. EFSA now requires human intervention data for most claims, emphasizing real-world impact over in vitro results. This shift reflects current regulatory emphasis on meaningful health benefits.

Step 3: Submit Application via EU Portal

Applications must be submitted electronically through the official EFSA submission platform. Required documents include detailed study summaries, methodology, and label excerpts. Parallel national validations in key markets like Germany and France often accelerate approval.

Step 4: Patient Review and Decision

EFSA evaluates scientific validity within 6–9 months. Upon approval, the claim is listed in the public EU Register, enabling commercial use across member states. Rejected applications include insufficient evidence or ambiguous wording—common pitfalls to avoid.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Overstatement: Avoid vague terms like ‘boosts energy’ without clinical backing. Use precise language aligned with EFSA’s approved wording.
• Misclassification: Ensure claims match EFSA’s functional categories. Mislabeling weakens credibility and invites rejection.
• Ignoring Updated Guidelines: EFSA periodically updates claim databases. Regular monitoring ensures compliance with 2025 standards.

Emerging Trends in EU Claim Regulations

The EU is tightening restrictions on digital marketing claims, requiring explicit disclaimers for online promotions. Additionally, personalized nutrition claims are gaining attention, demanding new scientific paradigms and transparent data handling. Staying ahead means integrating digital literacy and real-time compliance tracking into your strategy.

Conclusion

Registering nutrition and health claims in the EU is a rigorous but vital process that supports public trust and regulatory compliance. By following current 2025 guidelines, leveraging EFSA’s frameworks, and prioritizing scientific rigor, businesses can confidently launch products that meet European standards. Take action today: audit your claim portfolio, update documentation, and submit through official channels to align with modern EU requirements and future-proof your market presence.