EFSA red light for Coffee 21 DNA strands claim
The European Food Standards Authority has rejected German coffee retailer Tchibo’s statements claiming that consuming an Arabica roast blend could reduce DNA damage occurring in white blood cells.
According to the regulatory authority, Tchibo’s statements could not be proved by submitted scientific evidence.
“In weighing the evidence, the Panel takes into account one study that provides evidence that daily consumption of Coffee C21 (750ml/day) for 4 weeks decreases DNA strand breaks in habitual coffee drinkers after coffee withdrawal over the previous 4 weeks,” noted EFSA.
“However, the results of this study were not replicated in another study conducted under similar conditions in the same study centre. There are no studies performed in a different setting, from which conclusions could be drawn that are available.”
Further, EFSA noted that no evidence had been provided for a mechanism by which coffee would protect DNA from stand breaks.
EFSA’s response to Tchibo’s submission is published in its official journal here.
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