Tolerable Intake Level Research Articles

Associations between Urinary and Dietary Selenium and Blood Metabolic Parameters in a Healthy Northern Italy Population.

Selenium is both an essential nutrient and a highly toxic element, depending on its dose and chemical forms. We aimed to quantify urinary selenium excretion and dietary selenium intake in 137 healthy non-smoking blood donors living in the northern Italian province of Reggio Emilia. We assessed selenium status by determining urinary selenium levels (mean 26.77 µg/L), and by estimating dietary selenium intake (mean 84.09 µg/day) using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Fasting blood levels of glucose, lipids and thyroid-stimulating hormone were measured using automatized laboratory procedures. Dietary and urinary selenium were correlated (beta coefficient (β) = 0.19). Despite this, the association of the two indicators with health endpoints tended to diverge. Using linear regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, cotinine levels and alcohol intake, we observed a positive association between urinary selenium and blood triglyceride (β = 0.14), LDL-cholesterol (β = 0.07) and glucose levels (β = 0.08), and an inverse one with HDL-cholesterol (β = −0.12). Concerning dietary selenium, a slightly positive association could be found with glycemic levels only (β = 0.02), while a negative one emerged for other endpoints. The two selenium indicators showed conflicting and statistically highly imprecise associations with circulating TSH levels. Our findings suggest that higher selenium exposure is adversely associated with blood glucose levels and lipid profile. This is the case even at selenium exposures not exceeding tolerable upper intake levels according to current guidelines.

Zinc concentration prediction in rice grain using back-propagation neural network based on soil properties and safe utilization of paddy soil: A large-scale field study in Guangxi, China

Zn is an essential nutrient for humans, with crucial biological functions. However, Zn concentration in rice grains is generally low. Therefore, a cereal-based diet may lead to Zn deficiency in people, further leading to a series of health problems, such as immune and brain dysfunction. Previous studies seldom focused on the accumulation of Zn in rice grains based on large-scale field research. In the present study, a large-scale field survey of paddy (n = 40,853) and paired soil–rice samples (n = 1332) was conducted in Guangxi, China. Zn concentration in soil and rice grains was determined, and the associations of its spatial distributions with lithology, soil properties, and Mn nodules were investigated. According to the daily rice intake of different age and sex groups and the values of recommended Zn intake and tolerable Zn upper intake level recommended by National Health Commission of China, the Zn threshold value of the rice grain is 15.47–24.49 mg·kg−1. Moreover, a back-propagation neural network (BPNN) model was used to predict the Zn bioaccumulation factor (BAF) of rice grains with high accuracy. Soil Zn concentration, Mn concentration, pH, and total organic carbon derived from Pearson's correlation analysis were used as input variables in the BPNN model. Compared with the multiple linear regression model, the developed BPNN model using the training (1198 samples) and testing (134 samples) datasets showed better performance in estimating rice Zn BAF, with R2 = 0.93, normalized mean error of 0.009, normalized root mean square error of 0.21. When the BPNN model was applied to the 40,853 paddy soil samples, 85.7% of the agriculture lands were within the rice threshold values. These findings further our understanding of the development and utilization of Zn-rich rice and soil.

Safety of calcidiol monohydrate produced by chemical synthesis as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283.

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the safety of calcidiol monohydrate as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, including its bioavailability as a metabolite of vitamin D3 when added for nutritional purposes to food supplements. The NF is produced chemically. It is proposed in food supplements up to 10 μg/day for individuals ≥ 11 years of age, including pregnant and lactating women and up to 5 μg/day in 3‐ to 10‐year‐old children. The production process, composition, specifications and stability of the NF do not raise safety concerns. Animal and human data indicate efficient absorption. The NF contains a fraction of nanoparticles, which are fat soluble and unlikely to reach systemic distribution. There are no concerns regarding genotoxicity. Human adult studies do not raise safety concerns. Combined intake estimates of calcidiol from the NF and calcidiol and vitamin D from the diet were below the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for vitamin D for subjects above 11 years of age. The achieved mean serum 25(OH)D concentration in adults supplemented with 10 μg NF per day remained below 200 nmol/L. The Panel concludes that the NF is safe under the proposed conditions of use and use levels for individuals ≥ 11 years old, including pregnant and lactating women. The applicant did not provide data on the bioavailability and safety of the NF in children. The combined intake estimation in children (3–10 years) is close to the UL for vitamin D. Therefore, the Panel could not conclude on the safety of consumption of the NF in children (3–10 years) at the proposed daily intake. The NF is a bioavailable source of the biologically active metabolite of vitamin D, i.e. 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D.

Unknown safety and efficacy of alcohol hangover treatments puts consumers at risk

It is important that hangover products are both safe and effective. The aims of the current study were to evaluate (a) the ingredients of currently marketed hangover treatments, (b) whether companies make disease modification claims for these products, and (c) the extent and quality of any independent scientific evidence on their efficacy and safety. Of eighty-two hangover products identified, the most common ingredients were vitamin B, vitamin C, milk thistle extract (silymarin), dihydromyricetin (DHM), and N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC), often in combination. Fifty-one products (62.2% of the 82 evaluated products) contained one or more vitamins of which the dose exceeded the corresponding daily recommended intake level. For 9 (28.1%) of 32 products that reported the dose of Vitamin B3 and 2 (8.0%) of 25 products that reported the dose of Vitamin B9 the corresponding tolerable upper intake level was exceeded. Further, in many other cases the dose of other ingredients was not reported (e.g., dosages of DHM and NAC were not reported by 59% and 73% of the products containing these ingredients), and corresponding tolerable upper limits are unknown. A review of scientific literature revealed no peer-reviewed human data demonstrating either safety or efficacy of any of the 82 evaluated hangover products. Further, the product name and/or package/insert included explicit disease modification claims in 64.6% of the products. Finally, 45.1% of the products contain NAC as an ingredient. As NAC is registered as a drug by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is prohibited as an ingredient in dietary supplements or foods. We conclude that, in the interest of consumers, independent research supporting the safety and efficacy of hangover treatments should be a minimum requirement for hangover treatment claims irrespective whether the products are registered as medicinal drugs or dietary supplements.

High Concentrations of Folic Acid Are Associated with Decreased Hemin Absorption in Caco-2 Cells

BackgroundFolic acid (FA) is the synthetic form of folate, commonly used in vitamin supplements, food fortification and therapy. Currently, there is concern about the possibility of potential adverse effects of high doses of FA. In Brazil, daily use of FA 5 mg is recommended for several population groups, including pregnant women and patients with hemolytic anemia. This dose is five times greater than the tolerable upper intake level for healthy people. Both FA and heme iron are absorbed into duodenal enterocytes by the proton coupled folate transporter/heme carrier protein 1 (PCFT/HCP1). This transporter has a higher affinity for FA than heme iron, and we therefore surmised that high doses of FA might interfere with heme iron absorption.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to test the effects of high levels of FA on the absorption of hemin (source of heme iron) using Caco-2 cell monolayers as an in vitro model of intestinal absorption.Material and methodsCells grown in 6-well plates were incubated with 25 µM hemin and varying FA concentrations (0, 5, 10, 31.25, 62.50 and 125 µM) for 12 and 24 h. Intracellular iron was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry and total protein was measured by the Bradford method.ResultsAt both time points, cells incubated with 125 μM of FA showed lower concentrations of intracellular iron compared with cells without FA in the medium (0 µM). Cells incubated for 12 h with 62.5 μM and 125 μM of FA had 1.50 and 1.56-fold lower intracellular iron concentrations, respectively, than cells incubated without FA (125 μM: p= 0.002; 62.5 μM: p=0.007). Decrease of intracellular iron in Caco-2 cells was greater at 24 h than at 12 h of incubation. After 24 h, cells incubated with 125 μM of FA showed an intracellular iron concentration 3.08-fold lower than cells with 0 µM FA (p = 0.047).ConclusionsHigh levels of FA simulating intraluminal intestinal concentrations of FA following 5 mg FA ingestion were associated with lower intracellular iron content in Caco-2 cells due to decreased hemin absorption. These changes indicate that high doses of FA may impair heme iron absorption through their shared uptake via the PCFT/HCP1 transporter.Financing: CNPq 4826412012-6, CNPq 401586/2014-6, CNPq 208204/2015-6 and FAPESP 2012/12912-1 DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Разработка способа экстракции бета-каротина для его определения в комплексных пищевых добавках

Introduction. Natural dye beta-carotene E160a (pro-vitamin A) is part of many functional foods. Therefore, the total intake of beta-carotene must not exceed the tolerable upper intake level, i.e. 10 mg/day. E160a is also used in formulations of complex food additives. These products contain antioxidants, emulsifiers, preservatives, carriers, stabilizers, and thickeners, which makes it make difficult to isolate and determine the amount of beta-carotene. Complex food additives vary in composition, which, together with incomplete extraction and degradation of beta-carotene, results in inaccuracy of its determination. The present research reviewed various techniques of beta-carotene extraction from liquid and dry complex food additives.
 Study objects and methods. The study featured commercial samples of complex food additives containing beta-carotene. It was isolated from the samples by liquid extraction methods using organic solvents and their binary mixtures. The extraction was performed in a stirring device at 120 rpm and in a Bandelin Sonorex ultrasonic bath at 128 W and 35 kHz. The extraction continued until the samples were completely discolored. The list of solvents included chloroform, petroleum ether, hexane, acetone, ethanol, and their mixes. The experiment was based on high performance thin layer chromatography with Sorbfil sheet plates. The optical density was determined by spectrophotometry using a SHIMADZU UV-1800 device.
 Results and discussion. The extraction of beta-carotene from liquid samples with mechanical stirring at 120 rpm led to the formation of stable opaque emulsions, which made it difficult to determine the amount of beta-carotene. The emulsions were destroyed by ultrasound exposure for 30 min. The degree of extraction of beta-carotene from liquid emulsion systems (≥ 95%) was achieved by ultrasonic extraction with chloroform or a binary extractant based on mixes of acetone with chloroform, hexane, or petroleum ether in volumetric ratios of 1:1. When extracted from dry samples using chloroform or binary extractants, beta-carotene was not isolated or was not completely isolated. As a result, pre-dispersion of dry samples in water with stirring at 120 rpm was proposed. Ultrasonic treatment did not contribute to the dispersion of dry samples due to insufficient cavitation action. Ethanol, which is a solubilizer, increased the extractability of beta-carotene up to 98 %. The optimal results were achieved by adding a binary extractant (ethanol:chloroform in a 1:2 ratio) to an aqueous solution of the dry sample (1:3). The optimal elution systems were hexane:benzene (9.7:0.3), butanol:methyl ethyl ketone:ammonia 10 % (9:6:6), and petroleum ether:benzene:acetone:acetic acid (23.3:5.8:0.6:0.3).
 Conclusion. The article offers new methods of beta-carotene isolation from liquid and dry complex food additives of various composition and elution systems for carotene identification. The methods caused no degradation of beta-carotene during extraction and can be used to prepare samples of complex food additives for beta-carotene identification and quantitative analysis.

Analyses Using National Survey Data From Cameroon, Haiti, and Ghana Indicate the Potential for Bouillon Fortification to Help Fill Dietary Gaps for 5 Nutrients

ObjectivesWe modeled the potential impacts of bouillon fortification with different levels of vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc on dietary micronutrient adequacy to inform multi-stakeholder discussions around bouillon fortification programs. MethodsWe used individual dietary intake data in Cameroon from women of reproductive age (WRA) and children 1–5 y (n = 902 and 872), and household (HH) survey data in Cameroon (n = 11,384 HH), Ghana (n = 11,870 HH), and Haiti (n = 4,951 HH) to estimate micronutrient (MN) intake. The Adult Male Equivalent method was applied to estimate “apparent intake” of WRA, children, and men from HH surveys. We examined intake of bouillon and calculated prevalence of inadequate (below the estimated average requirement) and high (above the tolerable upper intake level, UL) micronutrient intake. Analyses included the contributions of mandatory fortification of oil or wheat flour at estimated current micronutrient levels. We simulated the impacts of bouillon fortification with varying levels of vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc on inadequate and high intakes of each nutrient. ResultsBouillon was commonly consumed in all countries, with any reported consumption ranging from 67–81% in Ghana to over 90% in Cameroon and Haiti. Median (apparent) bouillon consumption ranged from 1.6–2.1 g/d for women, 0.7–1.0 g/d for children, and 1.8–2.2 g/d for men. Bouillon fortification with vitamins was predicted to reduce dietary inadequacy (120 μg/g vitamin A: 15–33 percentage points, pp, depending on the country and target group; 80 μg/g folate: 11–33 pp; 1.2 μg/g B12: 12–67 pp) with minimal risk of high intake. In contrast, predicted effects on dietary iron inadequacy were modest (5–12 pp reduction at 5 mg iron/g, assuming 2% absorption). Simulated zinc fortification showed reductions in inadequate absorbable zinc intake (14–42 pp at 3 mg/g), but children’s intakes commonly exceeded the UL. ConclusionsModeling suggests that bouillon fortification could reduce inadequate MN intakes in these countries. Further work is needed to identify fortification levels that will meet criteria for nutritional benefits, technical feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. Funding SourcesThis analysis was supported by a grant to UC Davis from Helen Keller International.

Optimizing NAD Status: Establishing Recommended Intakes for the Novel NAD Precursor, Nicotinamide Riboside

ObjectivesNicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is the central catalyst in cells’ energy production and regulates enzymes involved in DNA repair, innate immunity and cell senescence. Metabolic stresses such as poor diet, infection and certain diseases are linked to depletion of cells’ NAD pool, suggesting a role for optimal NAD status in health. However, current dietary recommendations for NAD are based on niacin and avoidance of pellagra, while the tolerable upper intake level (UL) is based on skin flushing, both outdated endpoints. Supplementation with the NAD precursor, nicotinamide riboside (NR), safely raises NAD levels in in humans in a dose-dependent manner suggesting that NR could be a candidate for dietary recommendations to optimize NAD status. The objective was to evaluate the published and ongoing clinical trials with NR to identify data in support of and research gaps related to dietary recommendations. MethodsUtilizing a database of NR research maintained by the authors, published clinical studies were evaluated for safety, demonstration of clinical benefit, demonstration of an increase in cell/tissue NAD, biomarkers of intake and benefit, study population characteristics and study limitations. Ongoing registered clinical trials were also analyzed to assess potential future relevant outcomes. Results12 published clinical studies showed NR supplementation to be safe, with no flushing effect, at a maximum dose of 2000 mg/day for up to 12 weeks; 9 studies demonstrated an elevation in NAD+, however, variation in sampling and testing methods affect the consistency of study results. In addition to elevation of NAD+, muscle acetylcarnitine was identified as a potential biomarker of intake. To date, NR has been evaluated in adults, with variations in gender and race. Ongoing registered and results from published clinical trials suggest NR may benefit inflammation, blood pressure, muscle function, body composition and cognition. Research gaps include the need for a validated biomarker of NAD status and consistent findings on clinical endpoints in different populations. ConclusionsThough there is early support for dietary recommendations for NR, research gaps, including a validated biomarker of NAD status and a causal link to relevant health outcomes need to be filled to revise the current recommendations. Funding SourcesNone.

Simulated Impact of Vitamin A Fortified Sugar on Dietary Adequacy and Association of Usual Sugar Intake With Plasma and Breast Milk Retinol Among Lactating Women in Rural Zambia

ObjectivesZambia introduced mandatory sugar fortification with vitamin A (VA) in 1998; however, regulatory monitoring and evaluation have been limited. We studied the contribution of VA-fortified sugar intake to dietary adequacy, and examined associations between usual sugar and VA intakes with plasma and breast milk retinol concentrations in lactating women in rural Zambia. MethodsWe conducted three 24-h dietary recalls among each of 255 lactating women enrolled in a randomized trial, at the time of baseline venous blood and breast milk collection. We measured retinol in biospecimens using high-performance liquid chromatography. We simulated VA intake under various sugar fortification scenarios: 3.1 and 8.8 mg/kg (measured median fortification levels of VA in sugar from previous studies), 10 mg/kg (minimum legal requirement) and 15 mg/kg (minimum legal requirement at factory level). Usual intake distributions, prevalence of inadequate VA intake (< Estimated Average Requirement of 900 μg RAE/d) and prevalence of retinol intake above the tolerable upper intake level (UL, >3000 μg/d) for each scenario were estimated using the National Cancer Institute (NCI) method. We applied the NCI’s “bivariate model” as a regression calibration tool to examine associations of usual intake of sugar and dietary VA with plasma and breast milk retinol concentrations. ResultsIn the absence of sugar fortification, the prevalence of VA inadequacy was predicted to be 83% (SE: 6). Fortification of sugar with VA at 3.1 mg/kg, 8.8 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg would reduce the prevalence of VA inadequacy by 7 (SE:6), 24 (SE:14), 30 (SE:15) and 47 (SE:18) percentage points, respectively, without increasing the risk of retinol intake above the UL. Usual sugar intake and usual VA intake were not associated with plasma retinol or breastmilk retinol concentrations. ConclusionsThe sugar fortification program has the potential to reduce dietary VA inadequacy, but the impact is likely to be limited if actual fortification levels are lower than mandated levels. Even if target fortification levels are achieved (10 mg/kg), sugar fortification alone is unlikely to eliminate dietary VA inadequacy among lactating women in rural Zambia. Funding SourcesHarvestPlus and the Sight and Life Global Nutrition Research Institute at Johns Hopkins University.

Sociodemographic and Obesity-Related Disparities in Risks of Inadequate and Excessive Intake of Micronutrients During Pregnancy: The National ECHO Consortium

ObjectivesBoth inadequate and excessive intake of micronutrients in pregnancy have the potential to negatively impact child health outcomes. We examined micronutrient intake in a large, diverse sample of women with singleton pregnancies across the United States, including intake by maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). MethodsFifteen observational cohorts in the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) consortium assessed prenatal food intake and dietary supplement use with 24-hour dietary recalls (5 cohorts; 1859 women) or food frequency questionnaires (10 cohorts; 8064 women) from 1999–2019. We compared mean daily intake of 19 micronutrients to the age-specific estimated average requirement (EAR), adequate intake (AI), and tolerable upper intake level (UL) for pregnancy, overall and within sociodemographic and anthropometric subgroups. For recall data, we used a measurement error method to estimate distributions of usual intake, proportion below the EAR/AI, and above the UL. For FFQ data, we calculated the proportion below the EAR/AI and above the UL. ResultsRisk of inadequate intake from foods alone ranged from 0–93%, depending on the micronutrient or assessment method. With dietary supplements, more than 1 in 5 women remained at risk for inadequate intake of choline, magnesium, and vitamins D, E, and K; or excessive intake of folic acid, iron, and zinc. Higher risks for inadequate intakes were observed among women with obesity (magnesium, vitamin K), who were <18 years (magnesium, vitamin K), Hispanic (vitamin E), non-Hispanic Black (vitamin K), non-Hispanic White (choline) or less educated (magnesium, vitamin E) when compared to counterparts. ConclusionsImproved diet quality is needed for most pregnant women. Even with a high prevalence of dietary supplement use, at least 1 in 5 pregnant women were at risk of inadequate intake of ≥ 1 micronutrients, especially in some population subgroups. Pregnancy may be a window of opportunity to address disparities in micronutrient intake that could contribute to intergenerational health inequalities. Funding SourcesNational Institutes of Health, Environmental Protection Agency, Autism Speaks.

Identifying the Food Sources of Selected Minerals for the Adult European Population among Rice and Rice Products.

The problem of dietary deficiency of several essential elements among different stages of life is still observed. The consumption of whole grains (among others unprocessed rice) is recommended as a part of a healthy diet. This research aimed to determine the content of selected macro- and microelements in rice and rice products to verify whether the tested products could be regarded as a source of selected minerals in the diet of the adult European population. Methods: A total of 99 samples from 12 groups of rice products (basmati, black, brown, parboiled, red, wild, white rice and expanded rice, rice flakes, flour, pasta, and waffles) were obtained. The atomic absorption spectrometry method (AAS) was used to determine the content of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Se and Zn in the study material. Results: The average measured contents of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Se and Zn were as follows: 226.3 ± 160.6 mg/kg, 3.6 ± 2.8 mg/kg, 9.4 ± 7.0 mg/kg, 618.0 ± 498.4 mg/kg, 16.7 ± 10.0 mg/kg, 242.9 ± 140.4 µg/kg and 19.5 ± 15.0 mg/kg, respectively. Statistical analyses confirmed the differences in the levels of the studied elements between the subgroups of processed and unprocessed products. Considering the tolerable upper intake level of studied elements, the tested products could be regarded as safe to consume. Conclusion: All tested products can be recommended as a source of Cu, Mn, and Se, while a majority of studied products can be considered a source of Mg and Zn in the diet of the adult European population.

Diet and supplement assessment in a Brazilian urban population.

ABSTRACTOBJECTIVE:To assess total usual nutrient intakes from foods and dietary supplements by age, sex, physical activity, and nutritional status, and to compare usual nutrient intakes to the Dietary Reference Intakes among non-users and users of dietary supplements in an urban population.METHODS:Cross-sectional population-based survey with 506 adults conducted in the city of Brasília, Brazil, using 24h food recalls. The 24-HR was collected on two nonconsecutive days, for which individuals reported all food, supplements, and beverages consumed in the previous 24 hours. The estimates of mean and the distribution percentiles were adjusted to reflect usual nutrient intake using the Iowa State University method. The prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intake was estimated according to sex using the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR), and values above the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) were also considered. Also, a comparison was made of the total mean usual intake between supplement users and non-users according to BMI and physical activity.RESULTS:The total mean usual dietary intake was significantly higher among users than non-users of dietary supplements (p ≤ 0.02). Dietary supplement use increased intakes of nutrients and decreased prevalence of inadequacy according to sex, with only small (typically < 13%) increases in the population exceeding the Tolerable Upper Intake Level. There was a significant interaction between physical activity and BMI categories with supplement use.CONCLUSIONS:The population that consumes food supplements comprises individuals with more advanced age, female, normal BMI, and physically active. Our findings show that the use of supplements appears beneficial to attain nutrient adequacy. Careful monitoring of intake from food and supplements is recommended, and the statistical methods must be powerful enough to achieve relevant information.

Health Hazard Assessment Due to Slimming Medicinal Plant Intake

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 80% of people rely on medicinal plants for their primary health needs. Traditional medicine's principal benefits are their vast population knowledge, low severe adverse effects rate, low cost, and the lack of a medical prescription to use them. While obesity has become a global health issue, an increase in finding cheap and fast ways to lose weight escalates medicinal herbs' use for this purpose, both in dietary supplements or in teas. At the same time that Brazil aims to expand traditional medicine, reports regarding toxicology and poisoning put natural products' safety in check. Plants can accumulate heavy metals and metalloids leading to health risks; however, there is a lack of information on that matter, possibly due to a lack of international standardization regarding elemental contamination - this study aimed to determine metal and metalloid concentrations in slimming medicinal plants and their respective teas and evaluate their safety consumption. Metal and metalloid content were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). All plants and teas were within the set limits for tolerable upper intake level (UL), provisional tolerable daily maximum intake (PTDMI), and provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI). The hazard quotient index (HQ) was above 1 for almost all plants, and the Hibiscus sabdariffa tea regarding aluminum content. The arsenic level was above the Brazilian Pharmacopeia limit in natura plants demonstrating risk in their consumption. Some herbs also presented detection for elements with no safety limits set, such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic, which could mark as a red flag for consumption once their security intake is not precise yet.

Statement complementing the EFSA Scientific Opinion on application (EFSA-GMO-NL-2010-85) for authorisation of food and feed containing, consisting of and produced from genetically modified soybean MON 87769×MON 89788.

The European Commission mandated EFSA to complement its original scientific opinion on soybean MON 87769 × MON 89788 (EFSA‐GMO‐NL‐2010‐85) considering additional information on the human nutritional assessment of refined bleached deodorised oil produced from the two‐event stack soybean (RBD GM‐oil). The assessment was mainly based on a replacement scenario with a list of target foods where RBD GM‐oil is intended to be added. Intake estimations for several fatty acids present in the RBD GM‐oil, in particular γ‐linolenic acid (GLA), stearidonic acid (SDA) and linoleic acid (LA) were based on the consumption of the corresponding foods that are likely to be displaced. The assessment of LA considered the established adequate intake of 4% of total energy intake (E%) and that LA deficiency has not been observed with intakes > 1 E%. The assessment of GLA and SDA was conducted using maximum doses without adverse effects from intervention human studies as reference (4.2 grams/day for SDA and 2.8 grams/day for GLA) since no tolerable upper intake levels are set for these fatty acids. The decrease observed in the levels of LA in RBD GM‐oil as compared to oil from conventional soybean does not represent a nutritional concern as intakes were in all cases above 1 E%. For GLA, all intake estimations were below the reference dose indicating no safety concern. SDA intake estimations do not pose any safety concerns based on the overly conservative nature of the estimates, the absence of toxicological hazards and the rapid metabolism of SDA in humans. The GMO Panel concluded that the consumption of soybean MON 87769 × MON 89788 and their derived products, in particular its RBD oil, does not represent a nutritional concern in humans. A post‐market monitoring plan is recommended to confirm the predicted consumption and the application of conditions of uses considered during the pre‐market risk assessment.

Gestational Folate and Folic Acid Intake among Women in Canada at Higher Risk of Pre-Eclampsia.

Periconceptional folic acid (FA) supplementation is recommended to prevent neural tube defects; however, the extent to which recommendations are met through dietary sources and supplements is not clear. Our objective was to evaluate the dietary and supplemental intakes of FA in a Canadian pregnancy cohort and to determine the proportions of pregnant women exceeding the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) and Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL). FACT (the Folic Acid Clinical Trial) was an international multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, phase III trial investigating FA for the prevention of pre-eclampsia in high-risk pregnancies. Participants were enrolled from Canadian sites at 8-16 weeks of gestation. Dietary and supplemental FA intake data were collected through participant interviews and FFQs at the time of FACT enrollment. Categorical data were summarized as n (%) and continuous data as median (IQR). This study included 1198 participants. Participants consumed 485μg dietary folate equivalents (DFE)/d (IQR: 370-630 μg DFE/d) from dietary sources of folate and FA. Through diet alone, 43.4% of participants consumed ≥520μg DFE/d, the EAR for pregnant individuals. Of the 91.9% of participants who consumed daily FA supplements, 0.4% consumed <400μgFA/d and 96.0% consumed ≥1000μg/d, the UL for FA. Median (IQR) total folate intake was 2167μg DFE/d (2032-2325 μg DFE/d); 95.3% of participants met or exceeded the EAR from all sources, but 1069 (89.2%) participants exceeded the UL. The majority of participants in this Canadian pregnancy cohort did not consume the recommended amount of folate from dietary sources. However, most prenatal supplements contained 1000μg FA, resulting in the majority of women exceeding the UL. With no additional benefit associated with FA intakes beyond the UL for most women, modification of prenatal supplement formulations may be warranted to ensure women meet but do not exceed recommended FA intakes.FACT was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01355159 and at isrctn.com as ISRCTN23781770.

Vitamin D in liquid food supplements: are labels in line with RDA?

Introduction Nowadays, it has been observed an increase consumption in vitamins and food supplements (FS). In Portugal, in 2018, more than 2 million individuals reported the intake of these products [1]. Media has been given a particular attention to the high prevalence of vitamin D (VitD) deficiency, which may explain its highest consumption [2]. This vitamin increases intestinal calcium absorption and plays a central role in its homeostasis. Although vitD toxicity is uncommon, being a fat-soluble vitamin, excessive supplementation may result in body accumulation and toxicity [3]. The aim of this study is to evaluate if daily dose of vitamin D claimed in FS labels is in conformity with the recommended daily allowances (RDA) for this vitamin defined by European Union Directive and Portuguese legislation [4]. Materials and methods A total of 65 FS sold in Portuguese pharmacies, health shops, supermarkets and on the internet were examined for indicated daily intake and dosage of vitamin D. Selection criteria included: oral liquid pharmaceutical forms, for adults or paediatric consumption containing vitD in its composition, as mentioned in the label, regardless of the purpose of the FS. Results 35 (54%) FS presented vitD label doses above RDA and six (9%) of them indicated a daily dose ≥ the tolerable upper intake level defined by EFSA (UL = 100 μg/day) (Figure 1). Figure 1. NIR calibration curve used to predict the amorphous fraction of OLZ. Discussion and conclusions VitD label dose far exceeded RDA value in most of the FS evaluated and some exceeded UL defined by EFSA. Currently, the economic operators who place FS on the market are the responsible for the safety and the authenticity of label data. Attending that these products are often taken without any medical supervision or counselling and vitD excess may trigger adverse effects and also considering that some of these liquid formulations are for children consumption, it increases the concern about FS safety, it is imperative that the daily doses of this vitamin are reviewed in FS, in accordance to RDA values. FS should be under the same quality control of pharmaceuticals, regarding FS consumers health.

Commercially available kelp and seaweed products - valuable iodine source or risk of excess intake?

BackgroundSeaweeds and kelps, also known as macroalgae, have long been common in the East-Asian diet. During recent years, macroalgae have entered the global food market, and a variety of macroalgae products are now available for consumers. Some macroalgae species are known to be particularly rich in iodine, but little data regarding the iodine content of macroalgae-containing foods exists.ObjectiveThe aim of this research study was to analyse the iodine content in a large variety of commercially available macroalgae-containing foods and supplements and to evaluate whether such products are sources of adequate dietary iodine.DesignNinety-six different products were collected after surveying the Norwegian market for commercially available macroalgae products, collected from three categories: 1) wholefood macroalgae products (n = 43), 2) macroalgae-containing foods (n = 39), and 3) dietary supplements containing macroalgae (n = 14). All products were analysed for iodine content by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).ResultsThe iodine content in one portion of wholefood macroalgae products ranged from 128 to 62,400 μg. In macroalgae-containing foods, the iodine content ranged from 30 to 25,300 μg per portion, and in supplements it ranged from 5 to 5,600 μg per daily dose. The species with the highest analysed iodine content were oarweed, sugarkelp and kombu, with mean iodine levels of 7,800, 4,469 and 2,276 μg/g, respectively. For 54 products, the intake of one portion or dose would exceed the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for iodine.Discussion and conclusionThe iodine content in the included products was variable and for most products high, exceeding the tolerable upper intake level (UL) if consumed as a serving or portion size. The labelling of macroalgae species included, and declaration of iodine content, were inadequate or inaccurate for several products. As macroalgae-containing products are unreliable iodine sources, inclusion of such products in the diet may pose a risk of consuming excessive amounts of iodine.

Nutrient intakes from supplement and factors associated with supplement use among breast cancer survivors: A cross‐sectional study

We investigated the contribution of supplement use to total nutrient intake, the prevalence of inadequate nutrient intake and the factors associated with supplement use among breast cancer survivors. A total of 701 Korean breast cancersurvivors were included. We calculated the contribution of dietary supplements to total nutrient intake and the proportion of the population below the estimated average requirements (EARs) or exceeding the tolerable upper intake levels (ULs). Stepwise logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with dietary supplement use. A total of 66.5% of the survivors used dietary supplements, with multivitamins and minerals being the most commonly consumed ones. The per cent contribution of supplement to the total intake was the highest for vitamin C. 28.2%-55.4% of the non-users consumed below the EAR of riboflavin, folate and calcium; 6.1%, 4.9% and 6.5% of the supplement users consumed above the UL of vitamins A and C, and iron, respectively. Supplement users had higher education levels or longer survival time. 66.5% of Korean breast cancer survivors used dietary supplements. A higher education level or prolonged survival time was associated with higher use of dietary supplements.

Tolerable upper intake level of iron damages the liver of weaned piglets.

Iron is one of the essential trace elements, which is often supplemented as an additive to meet the growing needs of toddlers and young animals. Recommended nutrient intake (RNI) and tolerable upper intake levels (UL) are always set when the iron is supplemented. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the subacute (28days) toxicity of UL iron to weaned piglet liver. Thirty 23-day-old weaned piglets were divided into three groups and, respectively, supplemented with 100, 300 or 3000 (UL) mg/kg iron. UL iron caused significant weight loss in 4th week (p<0.05). Divalent metal transporter 1(DMT1) decreased significantly, ferroportin 1 and ferritin increased significantly in the liver of UL iron group (p<0.05). Although there was no significant effect on liver morphology, UL iron significantly increased hepatic iron, reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (p<0.05). UL iron significantly reduced glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and total anti-oxidation capacity (T-AOC) in the liver (p<0.05). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activated subunits of glutamate cysteine ligase (Gclc) and glutathione S-transferase A1 (Gsta1) upregulation in the UL iron group liver, thereby increasing resistance to oxidative stress. In conclusion, UL iron supplementation altered iron metabolism, generated free radicals, reduced antioxidant enzyme activity and activated Nrf2 signalling pathway in the weaned piglet liver.

Mineral composition of raw and marinated-cooked arms from Pacific giant squid (Dosidicus gigas).

Background/aim: Shellfish consumption is often perceived as a potential health hazard due to the accumulation of toxic metals. The mineral content was investigated in marinated-cooked giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) arms from three Eastern Pacific fisheries (Peru, Chile and Benthic) to elucidate their contribution to daily recommended intakes and possible presence of pollutants. Material and methods: Thirty macro- and microminerals were analysed in the raw material, marination solution, cooking broth and cooked product. Results: Both raw and marinated-cooked squid arms contained nutritionally relevant quantities of essential macro- (Na and Mg) and microminerals (Cr, Zn, Mn and Se). Fishery origin led to minor variations in the mineral composition of raw arms, while marinated-cooked arms of Benthic origin had a higher retention of Na and juice likely due to their greater size. Levels of Pb, Hg, Zn or As found in the ready-to-eat product were below tolerable upper intake levels. Conclusion: The mineral content found in the raw squid arms suggests that the Pacific fisheries concerned are not affected by human polluting activities. Marinated-cooked squid arms cover a part of the dietary requirements for minerals and can be consumed without apparent negative nutritional implications.