The Status of Production, Business, and Management of Functional Foods Globally and in Vietnam

Functional foods, situated between traditional foods and health-focused supplements, are seeing tremendous global expansion. Nonetheless, production methods, business models, and regulatory frameworks continue to vary significantly. This assessment consolidates global trends and offers a targeted evaluation of Vietnam. We synthesize evidence from peer-reviewed research, market analyses, and policy documents to delineate the characteristics of manufacturing and supply chains, encompassing ingredient sourcing, quality assurance, and emerging technologies, as well as commercialization pathways across fast-moving consumer goods, direct-to-consumer and e-commerce channels, and governance frameworks that include notification systems, pre-market authorization, and post-market surveillance. Internationally, converging themes include rising demand for science-backed claims, movement toward risk-based oversight, and persistent challenges in claim substantiation, adulteration control, and cross-border online trade. Vietnam has transitioned from an import-dependent economy to one characterized by mixed domestic production, accompanied by enhanced labeling standards, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and product registration, as well as chances for greater nutritional oversight, digital traceability, and enforcement collaboration. Evidence deficiencies encompass inconsistent clinical validation, varying product quality, inadequate adverse event reporting, and disjointed consumer guidance. We advocate for a policy and research agenda that prioritizes transparent claims frameworks, interoperable data for surveillance, capacity enhancement for laboratories and inspectors, and incentives for industry compliance and innovation. These measures can synchronize consumer protection with the sustainable development of the functional food sector, both worldwide and in Vietnam.

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