Removal of micronised and ultra-micronised palmitoylethanolamide products from the category of foods for special medical purposes

21.6.2017

Question for written answer P-004129-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Flavio Zanonato (S&D)

From the Summary Report of its meeting of 7 March 2017 and the accompanying documents, it emerges that the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed — Section General Food Law is seeking the removal of 19 micronised and ultra-micronised palmitoylethanolamide products manufactured by the Epitech Group SpA pharmaceuticals company from the category of foods for special medical purposes.

These products, which have been duly registered with the Italian health authorities and approved by them, have for some time been in use under medical supervision in Italy and other EU Member States as part of a dietary management programme for the treatment of neuroinflammation caused by certain diseases, disorders and medical conditions, some of which are extremely serious.

Is the Commission aware of this decision?

Could it give further details concerning the reasons for it?

What steps will it take to protect firms heavily engaged in research and innovation from unfair competition, for example from online sales of non-micronised palmitoylethanolamide imitations of Chinese manufacture that fail to meet essential standards of quality, safety and effectiveness and are not subject to ‘medical supervision’, whereas this is compulsory regarding food for special medical purposes in all the EU Member States?