What Is Nutrient Content Claim?
A claim that characterises the level of a nutrient in a food or supplement, such as 'high in calcium,' 'good source of vitamin C,' or 'low sodium.' These claims are regulated by FDA and must meet specific quantitative criteria.
Why It Matters for Supplement Brands
Nutrient content claims are different from structure-function claims and follow separate regulatory rules. They describe how much of a nutrient is present (not what it does). Using them correctly can enhance product labels, but using them incorrectly — or confusing them with other claim types — can trigger FDA enforcement.
How It Works
FDA has defined specific criteria for nutrient content claims under 21 CFR 101.54-101.67:
- **'Good source of'**: Must contain 10-19% of the Daily Value per serving - **'High in' / 'Excellent source of'**: Must contain 20% or more of the Daily Value per serving - **'More' / 'Added'**: Must contain at least 10% more of the Daily Value compared to a reference food
These claims are pre-authorised by FDA — unlike structure-function claims, they do not require separate substantiation. However, the product must meet the exact quantitative threshold.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Using 'high in' or 'excellent source' claims without verifying the product meets the 20% DV threshold
- ✗Confusing nutrient content claims with structure-function claims (different regulatory framework)
- ✗Making nutrient content claims for nutrients that don't have an established Daily Value
Related Terms
See It in Action
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