The chemical characterization of plant/plant extracts is usually less than 100%, although there are fast, cheap and sensitive analytical methods. Moreover, phytochemical markers are sometimes the only compounds mentioned!
Plant/plant extracts have high chemical variability, even if obtained from same chemotype and manufacturing process. It is technologically feasible standardise some components; however, not feasible for all components of the extracts!
For using plant/plant extracts as food additive their is always need of traditional documentation of particular area.
Major chemical identification is also big tool for reducing chances of adulteration.
Chemical variability may be the problem, for that we have to always depend on particular reliable supplier.
Chemical variability of secondary metabolites not affect much, if plant is used. But for plant extract, we must identify whether extract is free from any toxicant that may affect food nature.
Through standardization is needed in case of extract.
Thanks.
The first step of the risk assessment is the hazard identification and in the traditional use there is not usually sufficient information.
If the plant is traditionally used, it does not ensure that all toxicological endpoints have been checked.
For plant extracts, for sure we must identify whether extracts are free from any toxicant, however, plant extract composition are usually less than 100% and toxicants could be in the unknown part.
The given reference, in the link, is very good & is from a Research Gate colleague.
What bothers me is that if chemical analysis indicates that 99% of the components are safe, we still have the 1% uncertainity & also that the extract, when concentrated, may become more harmful and less useful (or as they say: it becomes too strong for intake). I think that if plant/plant extract is to be used as food/food additive, then extensive studies must be carried out before the "go ahead" from those in authority.
Article Quality and safety of botanical food products and their labelling
Thanks a lot Nizar.
It is really a complex issue and a pragmatic approach could be used. Taking in consideration both, scientific data and traditional uses, plus a stringent post-market monitoring.
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