Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to proanthocyanidins in Urell® and reduction of bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P-fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Following an application from Pharmatoka, submitted pursuant to Article 13.5 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of France, the Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to a Urell® product containing cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) juice powder standardised for proanthocyanidins (PAC) content and bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P-fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells. The food that is the subject of the health claim is PAC in Urell®. The Panel considers that the food constituent, PAC in Urell®, which is the subject of the claim, is sufficiently characterised. The Panel considers that reduction of bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P-fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells is a beneficial physiological effect. No human studies from which conclusions could be drawn for the scientific substantiation of the claim were provided by the applicant. The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of proanthocyanidins in Urell® and reduction of bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P-fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells.