EFSA confirms health concerns for hydroxyanthracene derivatives in food
Some substances belonging to a group of plant ingredients known as hydroxyanthracene derivatives can damage DNA A complex chain-like molecule that carries the genetic material, present in living organisms and some viruses. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is capable of copying itself and carries the instructions for all the proteins used to create and sustain life and may cause cancer, said EFSA after assessing their safety when added to food.
This group of substances naturally occurs in plants such as aloe or senna species A subdivision of the genus, a species is a group of closely related and similar-looking organisms; for example, in the case of Homo sapiens (humans), the second part of the name (sapiens) represents the species. Extracts containing them are used in food supplements for their laxative effect.
In 2013, EFSA found that hydroxyanthracene derivatives in food can improve bowel function, but advised against long-term use and consumption at high doses due to potential safety concerns TUs assessed for the QPS list should not represent a hazard to human and animal health and to the environment when used in the food or feed chain. The European Commission subsequently asked EFSA to assess the safety of these plant ingredients when used in foods, and provide advice on a daily intake The amount of a substance (e.g. nutrient or chemical) that is ingested by a person or animal via the diet not associated with adverse health effects.
Based on the available data, EFSA concluded that certain hydroxyanthracene derivatives are genotoxic (they can damage DNA). Therefore it was not possible to set a safe daily intake. When tested in animal studies, some of these substances have been shown to cause cancer in the intestine.
These conclusions are in line with previous assessments on the botanical A substance, used either as a food or a medicine, derived from plants, fungi, algae or lichens sources of these substances by other European and international bodies, including the World Health Organization, the European Medicines Agency and, most recently, Germany’s Federal Institute for Risk Assessment.
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