WASHINGTON — The Food and Drug Administration has granted a qualified health claim for yogurt, recognizing a potential link between regular consumption and a reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes. The health claim was the result of a petition submitted by Danone North America, a business unit of Danone SA, Paris.

The approved claim states: “Eating yogurt regularly, at least two cups (three servings) per week, may reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes according to limited scientific evidence.”

A health claim characterizes the relationship between a substance and a disease or health-related condition, according to the FDA. A qualified health claim is supported by scientific evidence but does not meet the more rigorous “significant scientific agreement” standard required for an authorized health claim.

All yogurt manufacturers may use the claim.

Danone said the decision was close to five years in the making, with the FDA reviewing available research on yogurt and Type 2 diabetes during that span. Danone added that data from more than 300,000 people found including yogurt in an individual’s diet may have a benefit to public health.

Miguel Freitas, PhD, vice president of health and scientific affairs for Danone North America, noted Type 2 diabetes is a rising health condition in the United States.

“That’s why we decided to submit a petition for this first of its kind qualified health claim,” Freitas said. “Our hope is that this announcement will empower consumers with simple, actionable information they can use to help lower their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes through a realistic, easy-to-make dietary modification.”

Diabetes ranks among the top 10 causes of death in the United States, and more than 37 million people are affected, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Type 2 diabetes accounts for approximately 90% to 95% of all diagnosed cases and approximately 1.2 million are diagnosed every year, according to the American Diabetes Association.

“Not only is yogurt a valuable source of important nutrients, it’s also incredibly versatile,” said Amanda Blechman, registered dietitian and director of health and scientific affairs for Danone North America. “That makes it easy to incorporate into your daily routine in a way that suits your unique needs and preferences.”

Danone said the qualified health claim also supports the company’s broader mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible. Danone announced in 2022 a $22 million investment in improving access to nutritious and health-promoting foods in the United States, in conjunction with the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health.

“We now know that eating yogurt regularly is not only an excellent source of essential nutrients, it also can have a significant benefit to public health, including reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes,” said Roberta Wagner, senior vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs for the International Dairy Foods Association. “This decision by FDA should be closely considered by members of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, alongside the growing body of science demonstrating the health benefits of consuming dairy products at all fat levels, which shows these products are not associated with higher risk of negative health outcomes, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Altogether, dairy products continue to demonstrate they are central to healthy, balanced diets for all people of all ages.”