In a statement released this week, the alliance argues that introducing nutrient profiles is not appropriate for specialty products and would not improve understanding of sports nutritional foods.
The ESSNA goes on to argue that the proposals have the opposite effect intended by the Commission and would prevent consumers from making healthy and informed choices.
“ESSNA fully supports the ambitious Farm to Fork strategy and understands that consumer information on food is an important goal of this initiative,” said Dr. Adam Carey, Chairman of ESSNA.
“In the case of sports nutrition products, the existing legal framework provides consumers with sufficient information to be able to make informed decisions. If you
“The Commission’s proposal on nutrient profiles would not improve the relevant legislation. Rather, it would hinder the EU’s strategy to promote nutrition education. If you
High protein & electrolytes If you
For example, sports nutrition products, which are often high in protein, have been linked to health benefits, such as maintaining normal bones.
Under the conditions for nutrient profiling, consumers would not be made aware of these health benefits as these products would be prevented from carrying this health claim.
Another example relates to a Scientific opinionManufactured by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), where carbohydrate-electrolyte solutions were able to reduce perceived exertion during exercise, improve water absorption during exercise, and maintain endurance performance.
“It is important that the Commission consider introducing food exemptions for athletes,” added Drs. Carey added.
“Proposed regulation like this could affect the work of the industry to improve consumer understanding and access to education about specific food products.
“It is crucial that this is taken into account by the Commission when considering significant changes to the legislation.”
These changes go back to 19 January 2009, the date on which the EC committed itself to establishing nutrient profiles that foods or certain food groups must comply with in order to carry nutrition and health claims.
In a process that has been found to be very delayed and vicious, the latest plans focus on the most recent ratingOn the feasibility of nutrient profiles, which were published on May 20, 2020 together with the farm-to-fork strategy.
The evaluation results indicated that the establishment of nutrient profiles was “still relevant and necessary” to ensure a high level of consumer protection and that further consideration was warranted.
COVID considerationsIf you
ESSNA highlights the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which is fueling increased consumer interest in active lifestyles and diets. This would be hampered if sports nutrition products were included in the nutrient profile regulation and nutrition labeling on the front of the pack.
“These products are intended for adults who lead an active lifestyle and aim to meet the specific nutritional needs of people who play sports,” says the alliance.
‘Hence, removing information about the benefits of sports nutrition products through nutrient profiling would be major barriers for European citizens who wish to adapt to healthier and more active lifestyles.’
ESSNA’s concerns appear to be supported by 2016 reportPrepared by the Commission for the European Parliament and the Council.
Here the Commission notes that sports foods may contain ‘an element of specificity’ and that ‘this may need to be taken into account by the Commission when applying and implementing the horizontal rules so that these specificities can be properly taken into account. ”
