ID 763 - Galaktooligosacharydy

PL: Galaktooligosacharydy
EN: Galacto-oligosaccharides
Pdf: various foods/food constituents

Oświadczenie (2)

1. Charakterystyka żywności / składnika

The food constituent that is the subject of the health claims is galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS).
GOS are formed by enzymatic treatment of lactose by β-galactosidases with transgalactosylation activities to produce several oligomers of different chain lengths. In the reaction 4'- or 6'-galactosyl- lactose, longer oligosaccharides, transgalactosylated disaccharides and non-reducing oligosaccharides are formed. The microbial source of β-galactosidase affects the utilisation of the substrate by gut bacteria (Depeint et al., 2008). The Panel notes that there are different GOS with different chain lengths. The Panel considers that several commercial GOS preparations are sufficiently characterised.
The Panel considers that the food constituent, galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), which is the subject of the claims, is sufficiently characterised in relation to the claimed effects.

2.1. Zmniejszenie dolegliwości ze strony przewodu pokarmowego (ID 763)

The claimed effect is “maintains a healthy normal digestive system”. The Panel assumes that the target population is the general population.
In the context of the proposed wording, the Panel assumes that the claimed effect refers to a reduction of gastro-intestinal discomfort.
The Panel considers that a reduction of gastro-intestinal discomfort is a beneficial physiological effect.

3.1. Zmniejszenie dolegliwości ze strony przewodu pokarmowego (ID 763)

Among the references provided for the scientific substantiation of the claim, a number of human studies addressed the effects of substances other than GOS or a mixture of GOS with other substances. The Panel considers that no conclusions can be drawn from these references for the scientific substantiation of a claim on GOS alone. In two human studies, the effect of GOS on intestinal microbiota was assessed, but no outcomes related to the reduction of gastro-intestinal discomfort were addressed. The Panel considers that no conclusions can be drawn from these studies for the scientific substantiation of the claimed effect.
The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) and a reduction of gastro-intestinal discomfort.

Warunki i możliwe ograniczenia stosowania oświadczenia

The recommended dosage for Bimuno (Clasado Ltd Galacto-oligosaccharide product) is 5.5 g per day. This is equivalent to 3.6 g per day of galacto-oligosaccharides. No adverse effects reported. Consumers who have are lactose intolerant should exercise caution when taking Bimuno. Women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy should consult a healthcare professional before any food supplements.