Testing the efficacy of functional foods involves assessing their effectiveness in providing health benefits beyond basic nutrition. This can be done through controlled clinical trials, biomarker analysis, longitudinal studies, and animal studies. For example, clinical trials on omega-3 fatty acids could measure effects on heart health indicators like blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Evaluating efficacy requires considering individual variability, optimal dosage, duration of consumption, and risks of publication bias. A multi-faceted research approach is needed to fully understand the impact of functional foods on health and wellness.