Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to proanthocyanidins in Urell® and reduction of bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P‐fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Abstract

Following an application from Pharmatoka, submitted pursuant to Article 13.5 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of France, the Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to a Urell® product containing cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) juice powder standardised for proanthocyanidins (PAC) content and bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P‐fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells. The food that is the subject of the health claim is PAC in Urell®. The Panel considers that the food constituent, PAC in Urell®, which is the subject of the claim, is sufficiently characterised. The Panel considers that reduction of bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P‐fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells is a beneficial physiological effect. No human studies from which conclusions could be drawn for the scientific substantiation of the claim were provided by the applicant. The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of proanthocyanidins in Urell® and reduction of bacterial colonisation of the urinary tract by inhibition of the adhesion of P‐fimbriated E. coli to uroepithelial cells.