EFSA — palm oils

1.2.2017

Question for written answer E-000685-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Louis Michel (ALDE)

In May 2016, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) detected the formation of substances during food processing, and in particular when palm oil was refined at high temperatures (at 200 °C approximately). EFSA said that its expert panel had concluded that these substances were a potential health risk. There is a risk of carcinogenic substances. Children would be particularly at risk, as would people consuming a large quantity of foodstuffs rich in palm oil. EFSA concluded however that further research was necessary.

What action has the Commission taken subsequent to these conclusions being published (notably concerning subsidies in the developing countries)? When is it due to receive EFSA’s new conclusions on this issue?