Response to comments on the Scientific Opinion of the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) on the scientific substantiation of health claims related to Slendesta® Potato Extract and reduction of body weight pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to review the scientific comments received on the Scientific Opinion of the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) on the scientific substantiation of health claims related to Slendesta® Potato Extract and reduction of body weight pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. Comments submitted to EFSA via the European Commission Services originated from the applicant (Kemin Human Nutrition and Health and James L. Rogers) and other experts (Prof Jason C.G. Halford). The comments received were related to the performed statistical analysis, including sub-group analyses, the meta-analysis presented, the studies submitted with respect to potential mechanisms and to the study design. EFSA has reviewed the comments and shared them with the chair of the NDA Panel and the chair of the NDA Working Group on Claims. In its opinion adopted on 24 January 2013, the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) concluded that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of Slendesta® Potato Extract and reduction of body weight. The comments received do not change the conclusions of the NDA Panel.