Public Consultation on Fennel Preparations

    Until September 17, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is conducting a public consultation regarding its draft scientific opinion on the safety of preparations made from the fruits of sweet and bitter fennel.

    In summary, the draft opinion states:

          • EFSA has advised that fennel preparations should not be used in foods or infusions intended for infants and young children. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women are urged to avoid fennel due to the potential placental transfer of an estragole metabolite, which is considered genotoxic and possibly carcinogenic.

          • EFSA noted that estragole is also present in other herbs, such as basil and tarragon. While exposure to these compounds from the general diet is unavoidable, intake should be kept as low as reasonably possible.

          • Methyleugenol and safrole, which are also naturally occurring in various herbs and spices, are classified as carcinogenic and genotoxic. Their use as flavoring substances is prohibited under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.

    EFSA concluded that, even when naturally present, these compounds should not be included in food supplements.

    This stance could have wider implications for other botanicals containing these substances.