Abstract: Objective: In the present study, a novel BDI-GS evaluation system for the functions and safety of foods was established through accumulated general scores (GS) as well as benefit-damage index (BDI) from an animal model by feeding low-nutrient corn. Methods: Mice at the normal growth stage were used as test subjects to evaluate the comprehensive nutrition and health-promoting functions as well as safety of foods. Control mice were fed simply on common maize, and trial mice were fed on maize supplemented with soybean. Body weight, 9 viscera weights and indices, BDI, GS and serum biochemical parameters in mice were determined to analyze the rationality, scientificity and feasibility of BDI-GS evaluation system in nutrition and health-promoting functions as well as safety of foods. Results: Changes in body weight, viscera weight and BDI in mice could reflect the nutritional benefits of soybean. BDI and BDI accumulation index indicated health-promoting functions, especially thymus index BDI revealed an increase in a dose-independent manner and a significant difference (P ＜ 0.01). Conclusion: An intuitive, overall, easy, economical comprehensive evaluation system for the functions and safety of various foods and drinks has been established. 

Key words: benefit-damage index, soybean, nutrition, health-promoting function, functions and safety, evaluation system