Within its 5th batch of Scientific Opinions on health claims, the EFSA has published a favourable opinion on the tooth-friendly claim for foods and beverages that are demonstrably non-cariogenic and non-erosive. EFSA’s positive scientific opinion builds the basis for the continued use of the ‘Toothfriendly’ quality seal, a registered trademark since 1982.
The seal is coupled with the explanatory term ‘Toothfriendly’ for use on foods that contain neither fermentable carbohydrates nor excessive amounts of food acids.
Dr Albert Bär, director of Toothfriendly International, is relieved to receive the backing of EFSA for the ‘Toothfriendly’ health claim. Initially, the EFSA declined to evaluate this claim, saying the dental benefits of tooth-friendly foods are not the result of an active effect of an ingredient or component. “Evidently, EFSA has now found a clever though somewhat twisted way to resolve this problem,” said Bär.
In its report, the EFSA makes reference to the US FDA, which had accepted the ‘Toothfriendly’ health claim in 1997.
To qualify for the ‘Toothfriendly’ claim, foods should not lower the pH of the dental plaque below 5.7 during consumption and for up to 30 minutes after consumption. Moreover, foods containing acids should not expose the teeth to excessive amounts of acid (not more than 40 µmol H+ x min) during consumption.
The tests, which are required to determine compliance with these criteria, are conducted in human volunteers. Three university institutes (one in Switzerland and two in Germany) are equipped to perform such tests. A fourth institute will be inaugurated in Beijing later this year.
The ‘Toothfriendly’ quality seal is licensed to food manufacturers for use on the label and in the promotion of their qualifying foods by Toothfriendly International.
Source: Toothfriendly International
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