EFSA OK’s article 14 ALA omega-3 brain claim

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a positive opinion linking omega-3 form alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) with brain and nerve tissue development in children up to three years.

The article 14 submission was made by German firm HiPP GmbH & Co Vertrieb KG and was rewarded with the claim: “Alpha-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid, contributes to brain and nerve tissue development.”

“The Panel notes that for normal brain and nerve tissue development, alpha-linolenic acid, like other essential nutrients, is needed in adequate amounts,” EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) found.

“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 opinion can be found here.