The document discusses functional foods, which are foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. The EU functional food market was estimated to be worth €30-60 billion annually. Half of functional food companies in the EU are located in Germany. Research focuses on products that target aging, children's nutrition, and diseases like cancer and obesity. The market is growing as consumers are willing to pay more for health benefits, but critics cite lack of evidence on cost-effectiveness and risks of unsubstantiated claims.
