Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to alpha linolenic acid and contribution to brain and nerve tissue development pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Abstract

Following an application from HiPP GmbH & Co Vertrieb KG submitted pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of Germany, the Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to alpha-linolenic acid and contribution to brain and nerve tissue development. Alpha-linolenic acid is considered to be sufficiently characterised. Contribution to brain and nerve tissue development is considered to be a beneficial physiological effect. Alpha-linolenic acid is the parent fatty acid of the longer chain n 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid, which is the major structural lipid in brain tissue and the central nervous system. Deficiency of alpha-linolenic acid results in adverse clinical symptoms including neurological abnormalities and poor growth. The Panel notes that for normal brain and nerve tissue development, alpha-linolenic acid, like other essential nutrients, is needed in adequate amounts. The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has been established between the dietary intake of alpha-linolenic acid and contribution to brain and nerve tissue development. The following wording reflects the scientific evidence: “Alpha-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid, contributes to brain and nerve tissue development.” The target population is infants and children up to three years. © European Food Safety Authority, 2011