EFSA Issues Opinion on Hundreds of “General Function” Health Claims

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recently published a second series of opinions on a list of “general function” health claims for foods. EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies assessed the scientific data submitted to substantiate more than 400 hundred health claims; its opinions are forwarded to the European Commission and member states, which ultimately decide whether to
authorize the claims. Among other matters, the panel generally allowed adequately supported claims related to vitamins and minerals, but rejected “probiotic” and “antioxidant properties” claims for lack of information and evidence. EFSA apparently expects to complete its work by 2011, depending on the final number of claims received. See EFSA News Release, February 25, 2010.