Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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139. To ask the Minister for Health to outline his Department's response and proposed actions in relation to a report (details supplied) published on 6 June 2024 into xylitol as prothrombotic and associated with cardiovascular risk; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25845/24]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Report referred to by the Deputy relates to xylitol, which is a member of a group of sugar alcohols known as polyols. Polyols are food additives most often used as sweeteners but can also be used for other technological functions (e.g. flavour enhancer, humectant) in foods.

The use of food additives such as xylitol in food is regulated in the European Union (EU) in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives. A food additive may only be authorised, if it is considered to present no hazard to the health of the consumer at the level of use proposed.

The safety of sweeteners, including xylitol, which were permitted for use in foods before 20 January 2009, are being re-evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Once EFSA has completed its re-evaluation of xylitol, the European Commission and the EU Member States will consider whether to continue its authorisation as a food additive.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) actively participate in discussions on food additives at EU level on behalf of the Department of Health. Officials in my Department have requested that the FSAI bring this Report to the attention of the European Commission so that it can be raised with EFSA.