Using systematic reviews in the scientific substantiation of health properties of foods and food constituents.

Systematic literature reviews are one of the main methodologies used to substantiate the health properties of foods and food constituents purported to affect human physiology. This tool is based on scientific evidence obtained from correctly performed randomized controlled trials. Systematic reviews make it possible to conclude whether there is a causal relationship between food consumed and health effects observed, thus supporting the use of the term “functional foods.” We present and analyze the prinicpal characteristics of, and ways by which, systematic reviews can contribute to the regulatory approval of health claims directed to consumers.