EFSA NDA Panel (EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies), 2013. Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to pantothenic acid and contribution to normal energy-yielding metabolism pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Following an application from Specialised Nutrition Europe (formerly IDACE), submitted for authorisation of a health claim pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of France, the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to pantothenic acid and contribution to normal energy-yielding metabolism.

The food constituent, pantothenic acid, which is the subject of the health claim, is sufficiently characterised. Contribution to normal energy-yielding metabolism is a beneficial physiological effect for infants and young children. A claim on pantothenic acid and normal energy-yielding metabolism in the general population has already been assessed with a favourable outcome.

The Panel notes that the role of pantothenic acid in normal energy-yielding metabolism applies to all ages, including infants and young children (from birth to three years). The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has been established between the dietary intake of pantothenic acid and contribution to normal energy-yielding metabolism.