This publication follows the previous identification of cholecalciferol as an ED during an evaluation by the European Chemicals Agency under the Biocide Regulation (EU) No 528/2012.
The decision is part of France’s new aim under France’s AGEC law on waste reduction and circular economy to inform consumers about the presence of destructive substances in the products they purchase.
However, given the widespread occurrence of serious deficiencies, concerns have been raised about the impact of the new labeling requirements and the deterrent effect they may have on consumer confidence and consumption of vitamin D products and supplements.
Vitamin D and endocrine disruption
Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D is a hormone, which means it acts on the endocrine system. Excessive intake can disrupt endocrine balance and have negative effects on health. The French Agency for Food, Environment and Occupational Health and Safety (ANSES) points out that serious effects on humans have already been observed, including: Excessive intake of vitamin D.
publish public opinionIn opposition to the new regulations, ANSES states that the doses of cholecalciferol used in biocidal products for rodent control should be lower than the doses of vitamin D consumed by a normal diet, including vitamin D-fortified foods. It also points out that it is much higher.
This legislation will confirm the existence of vitamin D.3At levels above 0.1% of the product weight, it is displayed through a specific app named “Scan4Chem”. The app was developed as part of the EU LIFE AskREACH project to help consumers track the presence of hazardous substances in the products they purchase.
In addition, it says: “Contains the substance cholecalciferol, which has health benefits when used according to the precautions and dosage specified in the package leaflet or product label. Please seek professional advice.” It will be displayed on products that exceed the vitamin D threshold.
potential risks
IASDA’s report said: “There are concerns that this decision will lead to consumer distrust of vitamin D supplements, which is particularly problematic given the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the population.” “It will be,” he emphasized.
Luca Bucchini, Managing Director of Hylobates Consulting and Vice-Chairman of ESSNA, explains the decision: And in high doses it has negative effects.
“Although formally correct, this legal mechanism has proven impossible to block, even after ANSES publicly stated that listing would be counterproductive,” he added.
He emphasized that vitamin D deficiency is currently prevalent in France, with 70% of adults indicating that their intake of vitamin D is insufficient in 2019.
However, as for the public health concerns associated with the publication, thanks to ANSES interventions by nutritionists, most of the damage has been mitigated and negative effects may not be seen, he said.This includes a set of published report We emphasize the importance of vitamin D intake and raise awareness of the prevalence of deficiency and the risks associated with it.
“There is some confusion and some inconsistency with EU law, but the impact on consumers is likely to be low,” he predicted.
