Beverage Probiotics Not Proven health Intestine

European food safety authority said the claims of probiotic drinks which can nourish the digestive tract and immune system has a less strong scientific foundation. Therefore, probiotic drinks manufacturers are prohibited from using the word probiotics again in sales.

Officially, the European food safety authority, EFSA, conduct a study of 800 health claims of probiotic drinks are often advertised probiotic drinks manufacturer. Health claims report was filed by the food industry and member states EFSA.

From independent research council panel of EFSA scientists concluded that probiotic drinks are not proven to provide health benefits as long as it is believed many people, which strengthens immunity, improves immune system, and reduce digestive problems.

Separately, the council panel also examined 12 studies conducted by Yakult as the owner of the patent on probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus casei Shirota. The researchers found, is not enough scientific evidence that the content of these probiotics can enhance immune system to fight the flu.

Currently, nearly 60 percent of households in Great Britain bought the probiotic drinks on a regular basis. However, consumer groups asked the competent authorities conduct independent research for food and beverage manufacturers do not casually use health claims in marketing their products.

Since 2007, authorities in Europe prohibit food companies to use health claims in marketing their products unless scientifically proven. The new regulations also require the countries in Europe include health claims made by food producers, as well as with 12 scientific evidence to be used as an independent research materials EFSA.

Danone, the market leader in probiotic products, decided to withdraw its claim that the two products, Actimel and Activia, boost immunity and healthy digestive tract. Currently, Danone is also still awaiting a decision EFSA to the statement "fermented milk containing probiotic Lactobacillus casei reduce Clostridium difficile toxins in the colon causing acute diarrhea."

In response to EFSA's official statement, the party said the industry objected because EFSA scientific standards that are too rigid in examining the health claim. They also requested a meeting to discuss the criteria and standards used.

Meanwhile, Yakult plans to further discuss the results of research conducted by the EFSA. Yakult says, a claim rejected by EFSA is only one aspect of the research he was doing.