Comparative Perspectives on the Production, Commercialization, and Governance of Functional Foods: Global Trends and Vietnam’s Emerging Framework

Functional foods, positioned between conventional foods and health-oriented supplements, are experiencing significant global growth. However, production techniques, commercial systems, and regulatory structures remain markedly diverse. This report synthesizes worldwide trends and provides a focused examination of Vietnam. We compile evidence from peer-reviewed studies, market analyses, and policy documents to define the attributes of manufacturing and supply chains, including ingredient sourcing, quality assurance, and innovative technologies, along with commercialization strategies across fast-moving consumer goods, direct-to-consumer and e-commerce channels, and governance frameworks that encompass notification systems, pre-market authorization, and post-market surveillance. Globally, prevailing themes encompass increasing demand for scientifically substantiated claims, a shift towards risk-based regulation, and ongoing difficulties in claim verification, adulteration management, and transnational online commerce. Vietnam has evolved from an import-reliant economy to one marked by diversified domestic production, improved labeling standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and product registration, alongside opportunities for increased nutritional oversight, digital traceability, and collaborative enforcement. Evidence gaps include inconsistent clinical validation, variable product quality, insufficient adverse event reporting, and fragmented consumer information. We support a policy and research strategy that emphasizes transparent claims frameworks, interoperable surveillance data, capacity building for laboratories and inspectors, and incentives for industry compliance and innovation. These steps can align consumer protection with the sustainable development of the functional food sector, both globally and in Vietnam.

Keywords: Functional Foods, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance.