In a first for fresh produce, Zespri scores EU-approved health claim for green kiwifruit
After more than 15 years of research led by New Zealand grower and distributor Zespri, green kiwifruit was granted a health claim by the EU Commission. This is the first time a fresh fruit receives an authorised health claim from the European Commission, marking a true breakthrough for the entire kiwifruit value chain.
Based on a daily intake of two fresh green kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa var. Hayward) providing a minimum of 200 grams of flesh, the approved health claim states that "consumption of green kiwifruit contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency."
“This milestone is not only a first for Zespri but for the entire fresh produce industry," says Zespri CEO Jason Te Brake. "The EU Commission’s recognition of green kiwifruit’s role in digestive health reflects one of the ways we are helping people thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit."
This authorisation is among only three health claims approved by the European Commission in the last five years, following a rigorous evaluation process in which fewer than one out of eight submitted claims tend to receive approval.
A long and arduous submission process
Zespri fully funded the application process and the majority of the key research submitted in the scientific substantiation, committing over 15 years to documenting the benefits of green kiwifruit.
The approval followed the submission of a comprehensive scientific dossier in 2018, which included 18 human intervention studies, six of which were ultimately considered as a strong basis for proving the effects of green kiwifruit on intestinal function. The European Food Safety Authority delivered a positive scientific opinion in 2021, which has now culminated in the Commission's formal authorization.
This landmark achievement demonstrates the critical value of investing in health and nutrition science—both to build trust in the fresh category and to unlock further growth and demand for green kiwifruit.
With this new authorisation, Zespri will begin integrating the health claim into its European communications, reaffirming its commitment to helping consumers make informed choices about their health.
Related stories
Global Grape Group promotes grapes as “the ultimate healthy snack” in the U.S.
Subscribe to our newsletter
