Dispatches from the NI Health Claims 2010 conference
Health claims threaten prebiotic innovation: Scientist
Concerns abound that the approach of the European Food Safety Authority towards health claims may stifle innovation and science, none more so than for prebiotics, says a leading researcher.
At the recent NutraIngredients Health Claims 2010 conference in Brussel, Professor Bob Rastall from the University of Reading voiced his concerns that EFSA's approach may stifle innovation and research in Europe.
"A lot of the research funding in the prebiotic area comes from industry. I am concerned that if the industry cannot market its products because it cannot make the health claims, it may well pull away from funding this research, or at least pull away from funding it in Europe," said Prof Rastall.
Other points discussed include the definition of a 'healthy, normal' gut microflora, and the state of play of the science supporting prebiotics.
