LFI launches new GI studies
Leatherhead Food International (LFI) is launching two new studies into the glycaemic index (GI) this year as part of its nutrition and health forum research platform.
The first will look at consumer understanding of GI, audit products already on the market making claims about GI, and explore the science behind the concept. Results are due in September.
The second study will explore the effects of low-, medium- and high-GI foods on fat metabolism via a review of the literature and an intervention study assessing fat absorption after meals, said forum liaison officer Sarah Hull. “Raised post-prandial triglyceride concentrations are a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and some evidence suggests that low-GI foods may help to reduce the blood lipid response after a meal containing fat.”
The claims study should help determine the validity of claims relating to GI and blood glucose control, satiety and cholesterol management, she said. “The Nutrition and Health Claims Regulation means that the scientific rationale surrounding GI must be evaluated and validated before low-GI claims can be added to the packaging of food and drink.”
A third study: an audit of key techniques used to measure satiety, plus some consumer research in this area, would be completed by November, she said.
