Food claim warning letter

Labeling for several FUZE Healthy Infuzions beverages stating vitamin B3 is "known to ... reduce cholesterol levels in blood" and polyphenols are "associated with reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease and certain cancers" violates the Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act, FDA says in a recent 1warning letter to FUZE Beverages. These claims "promote [the] products for use as drugs." Additionally, the products "are labeled with a dietary supplement disclaimer statement," the agency adds. "Because these products are conventional foods, not dietary supplements, their labels should not include this disclaimer." The dietary supplement industry voiced its concerns to FDA at a recent meeting and asked that dietary supplements and functional foods be given a level "regulatory playing field" (2"The Tan Sheet" Dec. 11, 2006, p. 3). Coca-Cola announced Feb. 1 it intends to purchase FUZE to expand its beverage portfolio...