Gut microflora: it's a bug's life
While doing some background research for a presentation on prebiotics I was fascinated (in a slightly juvenile 'how gross' way) to discover that the human body contains more bacterial cells than mammalian cells. It's no surprise then that gut microflora, and the importance of achieving the correct balance, has become a key focal point, and is currently being researched by Leatherhead Food International (LFI).
On the subject of guts I was concerned to read the European Commission nutrition and health claims expert group were feeling that prebiotic and probiotic claims were not really suitable for nutrition claims under the 'contains' provisions but should be article 13 health claims.
While I can follow the logic, it serves as another example of the problems the industry faces in complying with this legislation, which is in force very soon but with little tangible guidance.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has now put out the UK legislation for consultation and some well constructed guidance which I would encourage all to read and feedback upon. The consultation is open until May 24 and papers are accessible through the Agency's website: http://www.food.gov.uk/consultations/consulteng/.
It was interesting to note that the FSA papers refer to Agency research showing that 52% of UK consumers are fairly concerned about the accuracy of health claims. It is a shame that there are a number of less responsible traders (not members of LFI!) who will make outrageous claims and mislead consumers reflecting badly upon the industry as a whole. The new legislation may increase consumer trust in the food industry.
The guidance reiterates the need for claim substantiation, even when using a claim from the annex or the register of claims, so do check your products and prepare your evidence.
Kath Veal is business manager, Regulatory and Technical Consultancy Services at Leatherhead Food International
