EFSA Safety Ruling Could Help Jumpstart Sales Of Antioxidant Compound

A vitamin-like antioxidant compound found naturally in mushrooms and some beans and cereals has been approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for use in dietary supplements and fortified foods. The agency ruled that l-ergothioneine, also called EGT, is safe at dose levels of 30 mg a day for adults, and 20 mg a day for children, in food supplements, non-alcoholic drinks, cereal bars, milk, fresh dairy and chocolate. The ruling dispelled fears that the ingredient might increase susceptibility to diabetes mellitus, Crohn's disease or rheumatoid arthritis. Scientists say studies have shown that EGT is a powerful antioxidant that could have a major impact on extension of lifespan. With the EFSA safety ruling, EGT suppliers expect sales to pick up in 2017. [ Image credit: ©  Miranova Labs ]