GE Free NZ (in food and environment) supports the NZFSA on their strong
stand against the use of Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) in baby formula�s.
Though their initial decision to take action is to be congratulated, much
more is urgently needed.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are artificially-made inulin sweeteners using
bleached white cane sugar and genetically modified (GM) enzymes.
Natural inulin is a safe fructose found in the sunflower, elecampane,
Jerusalem artichoke family. Inulin in these plant roots is used in helping
with insulin control and is therefore good for diabetics.
However the amount of inulin found in plants is small in comparison to the
synthetic GM production techniques that manufacturers of baby food and other
products are using. (1)
FOS have been given 'Generally Recommended As Safe' (GRAS) status, but have
not been clinically tested despite their use in commercial yoghurts, baby
foods, cakes and sweets being marketed as providing beneficial bacteria.
FOS are soluble but inert in the stomach and small intestine though absorbed
and synthesised in the colon by bacteria. FOS also stimulates the growth of
Klebsiella and possibly other pathogenic organisms. In one study, Klebsiella
was found to be associated with certain auto-immune disease.
The use of genetically modified bacteria in the production of sweeteners
like aspartame and FOS, is of growing concern having been linked to allergy
symptoms, bloating, flatulence and stomach upsets in users. Previously
production of L-tryptophan using a GM bacterial process resulted in a very
rare disease Eosinophilia myalgia syndrome, killing 37 people and
permanently maiming 1500.
�These symptoms could lead to dehydration and severe ill-health for our
children and the elderly� says Claire Bleakley of GE Free NZ (in Food and
Environment).
�The use of GM artificial sweeteners could be the trigger for the onset of
diabetes and stomach problems, and we urgently need more research into the
possible link between the use of these sweeteners and chronic diseases. Such
ingredients should undergo clinical trials before they are considered for
use,� she says.
We would like to ask that the NZFSA follow up these legitimate scientific
concerns and extend their precautionary approach to other foods that contain
GM ingredients that are increasingly entering our food chain without any
independent testing.
ENDS:
Claire Bleakley (06) 3089842 / mob: 0273486731
References:-
http://www.made-in-china.com/trade-offers/offerviewkanJteQADrLV/Sell-Fructoo
ligosaccharide-FOS-.html
Fructooligosaccharides is made from sugar with biotech fermentation. It
enjoys many valuable properties i.E.Small dosage, cost-saving, high
sweetness, low calorific value and wide application.
It is hard to digest with the ferment and hard to absorb. Therefore, with
fructooligosaccharides, you will never have to worry about getting fat.
It can enhance mans absorption of the mineral elements. Whats more,
fructooligosaccharides can be an ingredient of drinks, food and functional
food.
Natren - http://www.natren.com/pages/healthyliving/beware.html
Consumption of FOS causes intestinal problems and produces adverse effects
such as bloating, abdominal pain and flatulence according to a study
conducted by the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) of the
Food and Agricultural Organization and World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) |
