Bread, gut-health claim approved

A panel of Dutch scientific experts has positively approved Bakkerij Veenhuis' request for a health claim for the Vitaalbrood Flora range of bread products containing Sensus' Frutafit inulin.

According to the panel, presided by Prof. F.M. Rombouts in the Netherlands, there is sufficient scientific evidence to state that the consumption of three slices of bread (with at least 5g of Frutafit inulin per 100g) supports a well-balanced gut flora composition and colonic function. This is achieved by the selective stimulation of the growth of bifidobacterium, a 'friendly' probiotic micro-organism commonly found in the gut and yoghurt.

To build the gut-health case and provide the scientific evidence for Vitaalbrood, Bakkerij Veenhuis collaborated with the Frutafit inulin supplier Sensus. According to a statement released by the company, it was Sensus​ who worked out an elaborate dossier to present and underpin the bifidogenic effect of Frutafit inulin in bread.

The request for the gut-related health benefit is the third scientifically documented dossier to be positively assessed in accordance with the Code of Practice Health Benefits 1998. This voluntary Code is supported by the Dutch Ministry of VWS (Public Health) and is currently supervised by the Netherlands Nutrition Centre.

Vitaalbrood Flora is sold exclusively through the Dutch-based Albert Heijn supermarket chain, part of the Ahold group, which claims to be the first retailer to make a positive health claim about bread. The claim is clearly stated on the front and sides of the packaging of the bread, and explained in easy-to-understand consumer language via an accompanying leaflet as well as on the back of the packaging.