Total Diet Replacements
TDRs, which include very low calorie diets (VLCDs) and low calorie diets (LCDs), are specifically formulated programmes that are based around formula foods that aim to replace the whole of the daily diet. These formula foods are nutritionally balanced with key vitamins, minerals, high quality protein, essential fats, fibre and other nutrients, and are designed to replace conventional foods for a period to facilitate optimal weight loss. They provide controlled energy intake lower than can be achieved with a reduced intake of normal foods.
Meal Replacement Products
Meal replacements are products presented as a replacement for one or two meals of the daily diet. They are used alongside conventional food, as part of an energy restricted diet, to facilitate and maintain weight loss.
Obesity and comorbidities: the role of TDRs and MRPs
According to the World Health Organization, obesity is “one of the greatest public health challenges of the 21st century”. Its prevalence has tripled in many European countries since the 1980s, and the number of those affected continues to rise at an alarming rate. Based on the latest estimates, up to 70% of the entire population is overweight, with 10 to 30% of the European adult population being obese.
Legal Framework
TDRs and MRPs are governed by European legislation and relevant international and national standards. While TDRs are regulated through Regulation on Foods for Specific Groups (609/2013/EU), MRPs are regulated under general food law and can bear specific claims, also regulated by EU provisions.