Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to vitamin C and increasing non haem iron absorption pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Following an application from Specialised Nutrition Europe (formerly IDACE), submitted for authorisation of a health claim pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of France, the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to vitamin C and increasing non haem iron absorption. The food constituent, vitamin C, which is the subject of the health claim, is sufficiently characterised. Increasing non haem iron absorption is a beneficial physiological effect for infants and young children. A claim on vitamin C and increasing non haem iron absorption in the general population has already been assessed by the Panel with a favourable outcome. The Panel considers that the role of vitamin C in increasing non haem iron absorption applies to all ages, including infants and young children (from birth to three years). The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has been established between the dietary intake of vitamin C and increasing non haem iron absorption.