Banana growers given the nod on low BP claims

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -- Banana producers can claim that their fruit reduces the risk of blood pressure and stroke because they contain potassium and are low in sodium, an industry group said Wednesday.

The International Banana Association said the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which monitors health claims, had approved a label saying "Diets containing foods that are good sources of potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke" for bananas sold in the United States.

"We can now confirm that there is a direct health correlation between banana consumption, potassium intake and low blood pressure," Tim Debus, vice president of the association, said in a statement.

Earlier this week, orange juice maker Tropicana Products Inc., a division of drinks giant PepsiCo Inc., said its products could also carry the claim.

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