Belgium
The Belgian FAQ on nutrition and health claims has been updated (June 2025 version). Several key questions have been revised or expanded. Notable updates include:
- Definition of a health claim (Q3): The term now explicitly includes statements that indicate the absence or reduction of harmful health effects.
- Requirement for specific vs. non-specific claims (Q5): Specific claims must support non-specific health claims and appear in close proximity on the packaging. If space is genuinely limited, a clear reference (e.g., an asterisk) may be used, but vague or hidden references are not acceptable.
- “On hold” claims (Q6): These refer to claims submitted for evaluation in 2008, mainly concerning botanicals, that have not yet received a decision. They may only be used under strict conditions and remain the operator’s responsibility. The status “on hold” does not mean a claim is automatically permitted.
- Use of terms like “probiotics/prebiotics” (Q26): These are considered non-specific health claims and are only allowed when accompanied by an authorized or “on hold” specific claim. In most cases, the use of the term “probiotic” is currently not permitted and the same applies to references to the gut flora.
Source: Vragen en antwoorden over sommige bepalingen omtrent voedings- en gezondheidsclaims | FOD Volksgezondheid Questions et réponses sur certaines dispositions en matière d’allégations nutritionnelles et de santé | SPF Santé publique