Pollen allergies and food supplements: ANSES reminds consumers of the precautions to be taken

In fact, pollen can be found in beehive products such as royal jelly, propolis or honey, even when this is not explicitly indicated. People who are allergic to pollen, as well as anyone predisposed to allergies or asthma, are therefore advised to avoid consuming food supplements containing these products.

In general, the Agency stresses that food supplements, just like normal foods, can contain all types of allergens. People with an allergy to a particular ingredient need to be vigilant regarding the composition of any food supplements that may contain it.

The Agency therefore advises consumers to:

• report to a healthcare professional any adverse effect occurring after consumption of a food supplement;
• comply with the conditions of use determined by the manufacturer;
• avoid taking food supplements on a multiple, prolonged or repeated basis throughout the year without having sought the advice of a healthcare professional;
• be vigilant with regard to products presenting unfounded claims, or products marketed outside regulated channels, particularly on the Internet.

ANSES also reminds healthcare professionalsof the need to report to its nutrivigilance scheme any cases of adverse effects suspected of being associated with the consumption of food supplements.