VERY LOW CALORIE DIET (VLCD) SERIES

In the lead up to establishing the VLED (Very Low Energy Diet) standard, FSANZ examined the Formulated Meal Replacement (FMR) standard as it was the closest Australian standard to meeting the anticipated requirements of the VLED standard. There were some differences however, namely that an FMR lacks a requirement for Essential Fatty Acids and an adequate Potassium level.  Both essential fatty acids and potassium are necessary nutrients if there is no dietary supplementation from any other source.  Essential Fatty Acids can be incorporated into an FMR, typically in the form of encapsulated fish oil for non vegan consumers but are not required and come with the risk of limiting a products shelf life. Potassium is a bigger problem, however. More to follow……..