New regulations for supplements: Important guidelines for vitamin D and iron

Poland has revised its regulations concerning dietary supplements, opening the door for manufacturers to produce preparations containing novel forms of vitamin D and iron. These updates, which align Polish legislation with European Union standards, follow positive safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

The amended regulation introduces monocalcydiol hydrate, a form of vitamin D, and two iron compounds, iron hydroxide adipate tartrate in nano form and calcium iron caseinate, to the list of permitted chemical forms. Monocalcydiol hydrate, a metabolite of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), is noted for its potential to increase vitamin D levels in the body more rapidly than traditional forms. It is designated exclusively for use in dietary supplements and is classified as a 'novel food'.

For iron, the new regulations permit the use of iron hydroxide adipate tartrate in nano form, designed to enhance absorption from the gastrointestinal tract and minimize potential side effects associated with iron supplements. Additionally, calcium iron caseinate from milk is now allowed, aiming to improve the ingredient's bioavailability and protect it from degradation in the stomach, thereby boosting intestinal absorption. Both new iron forms are permitted as novel food ingredients, with specific applications in supplements and certain foodstuffs under defined conditions.

All three substances underwent rigorous scientific assessment by EFSA before being included in the EU's novel food catalog. The 'novel food' designation applies to products not consumed significantly in the EU before May 15, 1997, including those produced using new technologies or sourced from third countries.