EU health claim submissions
DSM applies for DHA omega-3 brain health claim
The claim states, “Preformed DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) contributes to brain development” and has been submitted under article 14 of the NHCR that relates to disease risk factor reduction and children’s health and development.
There are two approved DHA claims in the European Union relating to eye and brain development in fetuses and breastfed infants as well as one claim for EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and heart health and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) and cholesterol control.
Many others have been rejected including submissions for inflammation, joint health and neurological functions.
Swiss-based DNP was not available for comment at the time of publication.
Carbohydrate solutions
Other recent claim submissions have come from the British Specialist Nutrition Association (BSNA) which has submitted a dossier in support of the statement: “Carbohydrate solutions contribute to the maintenance of endurance performance during prolonged endurance exercise.”
It has been submitted under article 13.5 which relates to claims based on emerging or proprietary science.
Third time lucky?
Prebiotic specialist Clasado has also submitted an article 13.5 dossier for prebiotic relief of abdominal discomfort.
It states: “Regular daily consumption of 1.37g galacto-oligosaccharides from Bimuno may reduce abdominal discomfort”.
EFSA has twice previously rejected submissions from the UK-Maltese firm for its Bimuno galacto-oligosaccharide.
Go GI
French firm Olygose is hoping EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) will issue a positive opinion for its galacto-oligosaccharide glycaemic response claim under article 13.5.
It states: “Consumption of foods or drinks containing AlphaGOS instead of sugar induces a lower blood glucose rise after their consumption compared to sugar-containing foods or drinks.”
The NDA is yet to approve a galacto-oligosaccharide claim although it recently approved a claim for fructo-oligosaccharides submitted by three chicory players, Beneo-Orafti, Sensus and Cosucra.
