Superfood is a term sometimes used to describe food with high phytonutrient content that some may believe confers health benefits as a result. For example, blueberries are often considered a superfood (or superfruit) because they contain significant amounts of antioxidants, anthocyanins, vitamin C, manganese and dietary fibre[1]. However, the term is not in common currency amongst dieticians and nutritional scientists, many of whom dispute the claims made that consuming particular foodstuffs can have a health benefit[2] There is no legal definition of the term and it has been alleged that this has led to it being over-used as a marketing tool.[3]
The OED[4] includes citations for superfood in the general sense of a food considered especially nutritious or otherwise beneficial to health and well-being dating from 1915[5] and 1949[6], as well as more recent examples[7].
Legal status in the EU
As of 1st July 2007, the marketing of products as superfoods is banned unless accompanied by a specific medical claim supported by credible scientific research.[8] Companies will have two years to adjust their marketing in line with these rules.
List of foods that have been described as superfoods
This is a partial list of foods that have been described as superfoods in the press or by their manufacturers. It would not be possible to make a list of actual superfoods, since there is no agreed legal or medical definition.
^[1] World's Healthiest Foods, in-depth nutrient profile for blueberries
^'The term "superfoods" is at best meaningless and at worst harmful,' said Catherine Collins, chief dietician at St George's Hospital in London. 'There are so many wrong ideas about superfoods that I don't know where best to begin to dismantle the whole concept.' Amelia Hill (2007-05-13). Forget superfoods, you can't beat an apple a day. The Observer.
^ OED, online edition, additions September 2007, entry for super-
^ 1915 Daily Gleaner (Kingston, Jamaica) 24 June 18/2 He had changed the tenor of his mood, And wisely written wine as super-food
^ 1949 Lethbridge (Alberta) Herald 3 Feb. 14/3 Mr. LeBourdais extolled their [sc. the muffins's] worth as a superfood that contained all the known vitamins and some that had not been discovered.
^ 2002 Here's Health Mar. 59/3 Sprouts have long been recognised as superfoods, due to their high protein, enzyme, vitamin and mineral content.
