Consumers Associa­tion: manufac­turers use fiber claims to mislead

Manufacturers are increasingly using fiber claims to make products appear healthier. According to the Dutch Consumers' Association, these claims do not always provide an accurate picture. The organization found more than 100 supermarket products with claims that mislead consumers or present an overly positive image. Its criticism focuses on small serving sizes, changes after preparation, and products containing far more sugar than fiber.

Rules for fiber claims

Fiber claims are subject to legal requirements. The claim “source of fiber” requires at least 3 grams of fiber per 100 grams. A minimum of 1.5 grams of fiber per 100 calories is also sufficient. For “high in fiber,” the minimum is 6 grams per 100 grams. Manufacturers may also use a threshold of 3 grams per 100 calories.

According to the Dutch Consumers' Association, these values do not always reflect typical serving sizes. Consumers often eat far less than 100 grams of certain products. Becel Oat en Fibers, for example, contains only 0.3 grams of fiber per serving. Adults need 25 to 40 grams of fiber each day.

Assessment after preparation

A nutrition claim must apply to the product as consumers actually eat it. However, some manufacturers base their claim on the unprepared product. After preparation, the product may contain less fiber. As a result, some products no longer meet the legal requirements. According to the Dutch Consumers' Association, the claim is then not permitted.

More sugar than fiber

The overall nutritional composition of products also plays a role. Bars, cookies, and beverages sometimes feature a prominent fiber claim. According to the organization, some contain far more sugar than fiber. AH Kruidkoekreep raisins contains 12 times as much sugar as fiber. Appelsientje High-fiber contains approximately seven times as much sugar as fiber.

“Food manufacturers are quick to capitalize on the trend toward eating more fiber. But in doing so, they also use tricks to mislead consumers,” says Sandra Molenaar, director of the Dutch Consumers' Association.

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