Foodstuffs intended to satisfy particular nutritional requirements of specific groups of the population are called "foods for particular nutritional uses", "dietetic foods" or "dietary foods". Where appropriate rules for the composition, marketing and labelling of specific groups of dietetic foods have been adopted by the European Union.

Commission Directive N° 1999/21/EC of 25 March 1999 on dietary foods for special medical purposes sets out rules for the composition and labelling of foods that are specifically formulated, processed and intended for the dietary management of diseases, disorders or medical conditions of individuals who are being treated under medical supervision. These foods are intended for the exclusive or partial feeding of people whose nutritional requirements cannot be met by normal foods. The Directive gives guidance for the minimum and maximum levels of vitamins and minerals. The Scientific Committee on Food has in its opinion (see below) on foods for special medical purposes of December 1996 provided the scientific advice on which these rules are based. Commission Directive N° 2001/15/EC sets out detailed rules on the sources of certain nutritional substances that may be used in foods for special medical purposes.

Scientific advice

Opinion of the Scientific Committee for Food on foods for special medical purposes (FSMPS) (expressed on 13 December 1996)

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