France: adverse effects linked to the consumption of food supplements containing turmeric
Following numerous cases of hepatitis reported in Italy and France, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) is drawing public attention to the risks of harmful effects associated with the consumption of food supplements containing turmeric.
Turmeric is generally used as a spice in various cuisines. It is also used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for its potential digestive, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In France, consumers can easily find food supplements containing turmeric or its active substance, curcumin.
Recently, around twenty cases of hepatitis involving the consumption of food supplements containing turmeric have been reported in Italy. In France, ANSES 's nutrivigilance scheme has recorded more than 100 reports of harmful effects potentially linked to food supplements containing turmeric or curcumin, including 15 cases of hepatitis. ANSES has therefore issued an internal request to identify potential risks relating to the consumption of food supplements with turmeric content.
The acceptable daily intake of curcumin has been set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) at 180mg of curcumin per day for an adult weighing 60kg. In general, the level of curcumin intake through food is low, with 27mg per day for large consumers of turmeric-based foods. Thus, ANSES has determined that the curcumin intake level through food supplements must remain below 153mg per day.
On the other hand, ANSES emphasizes that this value is only valid for classic formulations of curcumin in food supplements. However, the Agency has identified a growing use of new formulations which increase the bioavailability of curcumin, thereby inducing a risk of adverse effects. According to Fanny Huret from ANSES, “curcumin has very low bioavailability, i.e. it is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream and is very rapidly eliminated by the body. Manufacturers have developed various formulations to increase this bioavailability and thereby enhance the effects of curcumin.”
To prevent poisoning, ANSES recommends manufacturers provide details information regarding bioavailability data of their products so that a specific maximum daily intake dose can be defined. The Agency also advises individuals taking certain medications not to consume food supplements with curcumin content without doctor consultation.
Source:
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