FOREIGN AGRICULTURAL SERVICE
U.S. MISSION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION

Last update: December 7, 2006

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Foodstuffs for Particular Nutritional Uses

Council Directive 89/398/EEC is a framework directive laying down rules for foodstuffs intended for particular nutritional uses. Foodstuffs for particular nutritional uses are foodstuffs which, due to their special composition or manufacturing process, can clearly be distinguished from foodstuffs for normal consumption. 

Commission Directive 2001/15/EC lists the chemical substances in each category of nutritional substances (vitamins, minerals and amino acids) that may be added for specific nutritional purposes in foodstuffs for particular nutritional uses.

 

Provisions including compositional and hygiene requirements, provisions regarding the quality of raw materials, a list of additives/substances, specific labeling requirements, sampling procedures and analysis methods have been laid down in specific directives for four product categories:

Commission Directive 2006/125EC on processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children.
Commission Directive 96/8/EC on foods intended for use in energy-restricted diets for weight reduction.
Commission Directive 91/321/EC on infant formulae and follow-on formulae. (also see "Reports")
Commission Directive 1999/21/EC on dietary foods for special medical purposes.   

A fifth specific directive on foods and beverages for sportsmen will be drafted in the future. No decision has been made yet if a specific directive will be developed for foods intended for people suffering from diabetes. (Directive 1999/41/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, published in O.J. L 172 of 8 July 1999). Meanwhile, these foodstuffs remain subject to Member State legislation.

To take advantage of technological developments, the Commission may authorize the marketing of products which do not comply with the requirements of the specific directives for a two-year period.

Reports

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EU Proposal: Composition & Labeling of Infant & Follow-on Formulae - GAIN report E36116 
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Revision of the EU's Infant Formulae and Follow-On Formulae Directive - GAIN report E35051

Links

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Dietetic Foods (European Commission - DG Health & Consumer Protection)
 

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