Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to zinc and normal function of the immune system pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Following an application from Specialised Nutrition Europe (formerly IDACE), submitted pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of France, the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to zinc and normal function of the immune system. The food constituent, zinc, which is the subject of the health claim is sufficiently characterised. Normal function of the immune system is a beneficial physiological effect for infants and young children. A claim on zinc and function of the immune system in the general population has already been assessed with a favourable outcome. The Panel considers that the role of zinc in normal function of the immune system applies to all ages, including infants and young children (from birth to three years). The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has been established between the dietary intake of zinc and normal function of the immune system. The following wording reflects the scientific evidence: “zinc contributes to normal function of the immune system”.