The purpose of this Cluster is to use sound scientific evidence to work with industry and regulators in the development of a regulatory framework for the approval of functional foods with an appropriate process for the substantiation of claims of enhanced health outcomes through the consumption of functional foods.

The work of the Cluster falls into three broad areas:

• Maintenance of an up to date database of information on functional food regulatory issues in Australia and internationally
• Provision of regular news services to Australian food companies via the website, reports and conferences
• Contract advisory services to food companies to assist in preparation of regulatory applications, or training of staff.

• Advice and commentary on changes to Australian food regulations regarding functional foods
• Workshops and consensus conferences to develop recommendations on appropriate and acceptable biomarkers and other evidence that can be used for the study of the benefits of functional foods and the substantiation of claims

• Development of an understanding of how Australian consumers use and react to health claims for functional foods
• Capability to advise companies on the best methods to test the content and format of messages to communicate the health benefits of functional foods.