Response to Comments on the Scientific Opinion on the Substantiation of a Health Claim Related to Spermidine and Prolongation of the Growing Phase (Anagen) of the Hair Cycle Pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

In response to comments received on their previous opinion, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reviewed the scientific substantiation of health claims related to spermidine and the prolongation of the growing phase (anagen) of the hair cycle. The comments were submitted by the applicant, Giuliani S.p.A., and included a confidential document signed by Prof. Ralf Paus. The EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) had previously concluded on November 23, 2011, that the claimed effect was related to the treatment of a disease and therefore did not comply with the criteria laid down in Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. After reviewing the comments, which focused on the nature and possible causes of telogen effluvium, the EFSA determined that the comments did not provide any new evidence that would change the Panel's view that the claim relates to the treatment of symptoms of pathological conditions. Consequently, the conclusions of the NDA Panel remained unchanged.