Zurich- based manufacturer of chocolate and cocoa products, Barry Callebaut, has received a positive Scientific Opinion from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on the background data to extend its existing health claim to cocoa extract products. This positive evaluation was officially published on May 5, 2014, and the company anticipates EFSA’s approval may lead to further validation by the EU Commission.
 
In September 2013, the EU Commission granted Barry Callebaut the right to use the health claim “cocoa flavanols help maintain the elasticity of blood vessels, which contributes to normal blood flow,” within the EU market. This claim was to be used for cocoa beverages (with cocoa powder) and dark chocolate products providing a daily intake of 200 mg of cocoa flavanols. Barry Callebaut has now petitioned EFSA to extend this claim to cocoa extract products with concentrated flavanols, such as dietary supplements. If the application is granted, Barry Callebaut will have the proprietary right to use this extended health claim within EU countries during 5 years, effective from the day of EU approval.
 
The content of the health claim remains unchanged, but its field of application would be extended to other formats, including non-chocolate products. According to the company, the application of the health claim on cocoa extract products opens new opportunities, for example in the pharmacy, nutraceutical and supplement industries. The cardiovascular properties of flavanols could, for instance, be offered in the form of pills and distributed in pharmacies.
 
Peter Boone, Barry Callebaut’schief innovation officer stated, “A positive Scientific Opinion is not easily provided by EFSA. Their decision is based on a profound scientific assessment of data. Barry Callebaut has now been given not one, but two ultimate rewards for its research efforts. This positive outcome proves that research projects at Barry Callebaut are very efficient, and we are very happy that our customers will soon be able to make the most of our discovery.”