Lycopene Use In Fortified Foods Can Push Intake Too High; European Commission May Lower Permitted Use Levels

January 27, 2010: 08:08 PM EST

Authorized use levels of lycopene in the European Union may be revised downward on the back of a recently published report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Following a European Commission request to investigate, the EFSA looked at consumption patterns and found that expected lyocopene intake from its use as a food color and from naturally occurring sources would be within the ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake). However, the use of lyocpene in fortified foods would push consumption levels for all populations 'much higher' and, in the case of pre-school and school children, would push it beyond the ADI. The Commission is likely to try and lower permitted lycopene use levels, notably in food colors.

EFSA Unit on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS), "Revised exposure assessment for lycopene as a food colour", European Food Safety Authority journal, January 27, 2010, © European Food Safety Authority

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Lycopene Use In Fortified Foods Can Push Intake Too High; European Commission May Lower Permitted Use Levels

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