Could Ashwagandha be Banned in the UK by 2025?
Ashwagandha, known for its stress-relieving and focus-boosting properties, is facing scrutiny in the UK. The UK's Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a call for evidence as it considers potential risk management options for this popular Ayurvedic herb. This move could lead to a ban on ashwagandha in food supplements by 2025. Here’s a detailed look at the situation.
Current Situation
The FSA’s call for evidence, open from 8 July to 2 September 2024, invites stakeholders to submit data on ashwagandha. This includes manufacturers, processors, distributors, importers, experts, trade organisations, and consumers. The goal is to gather comprehensive information on the safety, stability, and efficacy of ashwagandha in food supplements.
Why the Scrutiny?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine. It has recently gained popularity in the West for its potential benefits in reducing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing cognitive function. However, concerns have arisen regarding its safety, leading to a closer examination.
Key Concerns:
Thyroid Effects: Literature reviews suggest ashwagandha may affect thyroid hormone levels, potentially causing thyroid toxicity.
Hypoglycemic Effects: There are indications that ashwagandha may lower blood sugar levels, posing risks to individuals with diabetes or hypoglycemia.
Liver Toxicity: Some reports associate ashwagandha with potential liver toxicity.
Denmark banned ashwagandha in 2023 following risk assessments by the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), which found it challenging to establish a safe lower limit for intake. Sweden and Finland are also considering bans, while Poland has set a maximum daily intake level at 3 grams. France, like the UK, is evaluating the potential risks associated with ashwagandha in supplements.
Criticism
The DTU report, which influenced Denmark’s decision, has faced criticism for lack of peer review and transparency regarding the authors’ credentials and funding sources. A recent white paper published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, argues that the DTU report draws conclusions from studies on parts of the ashwagandha plant that are not relevant to typical supplement use. This paper advocates for the safety and efficacy of ashwagandha roots, presenting robust scientific evidence.
The FSA’s Evidence Request
The FSA seeks detailed information to inform its risk assessment:
Safety Data
Including toxicological testing and relevant data.
Product Information
Full ingredient lists, sourcing details, and contaminant levels.
Market Data
Types and prevalence of ashwagandha products, specialised formulations, and manufacturing processes.
Consumer Insights
Demographics and consumption patterns, especially regarding pregnant women and children.
Implications for the Industry
A potential ban on ashwagandha could significantly impact companies involved in its manufacture, distribution, and sale. Businesses need to provide comprehensive evidence to ensure that the FSA’s risk assessment is thorough and balanced.
What’s Next?
The FSA will review the submitted evidence to determine whether a safe level of ashwagandha can be established for use in food supplements. The outcome will shape future regulatory decisions, potentially leading to restrictions or a ban.
Call to Action
Stakeholders are encouraged to contribute to the evidence package by the 2 September 2024 deadline. This collective input will play a crucial role in shaping the future of ashwagandha in the UK market.
For more information or to submit evidence, contact: 📧 ashwagandha-callforevidence@food.gov.uk
