Health Claim for Probiotic LGG Reaffirmed in Switzerland

08 Dec 2014 --- Due to new regulations in Switzerland, Emmi has had to reapply for permission to be able to use the health claim “Contributes to normal digestion in reducing abdominal bloating” in relation to its LGG product. The Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) has reaffirmed the health claim for LGG, the world’s most researched lactic acid bacterium.

In Swizterland, Emmi uses LGG in its Aktifit products with additional vitamins B6, B9 (folic acid) and B12 which contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Valio signed a technology license with Emmi for LGG in 1995 and Emmi Aktifit products were launched the following year. Emmi applied for the two LGG claims, “supports and regulates the digestion” and “strengthens the defensive forces” in 1996 and these have since been reaffirmed and modified in accordance with EU legislation.

The Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) directives set the bar ever higher for specific health claims and Valio licensee Emmi of Switzerland has again met the criteria with its LGG fermented milk product Aktifit.

LGG is only available on license from Valio and is currently in nearly 50 countries around the world, in products as diverse as infant formula, drinking yogurt and capsules. 

Kalle Leporanta, Export Manager, Technical Sales at Valio, told www.FoodIngredientsFirst.com, “Elsewhere, countries such as Japan and Russia are also allowed to use health claims for the use of LGG. We are continuously working to apply for health claim in Europe but that seems to be a long way off.”