In an unprecedented move, the European Commission has awarded the green kiwi a rare health claim, recognizing its benefits for digestive health. This endorsement marks the first time a fresh fruit has received such acknowledgment from the EU, highlighting the kiwi’s significant impact on intestinal function.
Achieving a health claim from the European Union is no simple task; it involves a rigorous evaluation process designed to protect consumers from misleading health promises. The green kiwi succeeded in meeting these stringent standards due to its scientifically backed intestinal benefits.
This milestone results from over fifteen years of research conducted by Zespri International Limited, the world’s leading kiwi producer. The studies confirm that eating two green kiwis daily (approximately 200g of fruit) can significantly contribute to maintaining regular bowel movements.
The official claim, articulated in EU Regulation 2025/1560, notes that “consumption of kiwi contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency.” Importantly, this declaration applies solely to fresh green kiwis.
This recognition places kiwis in an exclusive category. As Euronews points out, despite their widespread use, probiotics have yet to receive such official approval, as current scientific evidence is deemed insufficient by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
With this development, the kiwi has not only carved a niche in the fruit world but also set a new benchmark in the realm of health claims within the European Union.
