UK retailer files carb:protein ratio health claim
The article 13.5 claim is now being considered by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), according to the authority’s register of questions.
The claim up for debate reads: “This product range has been formulated with a carbohydrate: protein ratio < 1.8. For adults with excess body weight, this helps to achieve a reduction in body weight and body fat when consumed as part of an energy restricted diet (< 8368 kJ/ 2000 kcal / day) for a minimum of 12 weeks.”
EFSA now has five months to complete its evaluation once the application is considered complete.
Not just any carbohydrate:protein ratio
M&S – a high-end retailer which sells mainly own brand products – launched its weight loss range Balanced For You back in 2010.
The high-protein, carbohydrate-balanced products are meant to be eaten as part of a four-week weight loss meal plan.
M&S declined to comment on which products it intends to use the claims on.
A history of 13.5
Article 13.5 claims are based on newly developed scientific evidence for which protection of proprietary data is sometimes requested.
EFSA’s NDA panel has received 48 applications for 13.5 claims to date, 13 have been withdrawn and 27 opinions for which have so far been adopted.
