"Plant-based extracts are morphing into something greater: using science to maximize health benefits and bring the promise of a healthier lifestyle within reach of the consumer. The rise of functional foods worldwide equates to a projected market growth to $109 billion by 2010, nearly double what it is now. As consumers increase their consumption of functional foods in the hopes of improving health, the regulators must determine acceptable health claims, safety standards and quality control of manufacturing. International regulatory bodies are stepping up and tightening regulations on claims in order to set a new standard for scientific validation. Panelists
will evaluate recent successes in this emerging market as well as the impact new regulations will have on the development of functional foods and supplements throughout the world."

Objective1:Highlight expanding opportunities for the functional foods industry.

Objective2:Evaluate parameters for claims and safety of functional foods through clinical validation.

Objective3:Discuss the role of international regulatory bodies in developing parameters and guidelines for the industry.