AFSSA Report on the Safety and Benefits of Phytoestrogens (March 2005)

​

The French Agency for Food Safety (AFSSA) evaluated the estrogen-like effects of phytoestrogens, particularly soy isoflavones, from multiple perspectives in its March 2005 report titled "Sécurité et bénéfices des phyto-estrogènes apportés par l’alimentation - Recommandations".

​

Key Conclusions and Recommendations:

​

1. Safe Intake Levels:

   • The report concluded that an intake of 1 mg/kg body weight per day of isoflavone aglycone is the threshold below which no significant health risks from phytoestrogen exposure are expected.

2. Guidelines for Infants Consuming Soy-Based Foods:

   • For infants consuming prepared foods with soy protein as the main ingredient, the phytoestrogen content should be limited to 1 mg/L to reduce potential endocrine-related risks.

3. Caution for Breast Cancer Patients and High-Risk Individuals:

   • Breast cancer patients or individuals with a family history of breast cancer should limit soy isoflavone intake, as excessive consumption may increase the risk of tumor growth.

4. Labeling and Consumer Awareness for Soy-Based Foods and Supplements:

   • Foods that contain soy as the primary ingredient (e.g., tofu, miso, soy milk) should carry labels such as:

     • "Contains X mg soy isoflavone"

     • "Take in moderation"

     • "Not recommended for children under 3 years old"

   • Soy-based supplements and enriched foods should include additional labeling warnings:

     • "Must not exceed 1 mg/kg body weight per day"

     • "Not recommended for women with a personal or family history of breast cancer"

     • "Consult your physician before use"

 

Implications:

 

The AFSSA report underscores potential risks associated with high soy isoflavone intake, particularly for infants, breast cancer patients, and individuals with genetic predispositions to hormone-related cancers. These recommendations emphasize the importance of controlled intake, clear product labelling, and consumer education to ensure safe consumption

​

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

In Israel, there is information regarding the recommendation that consumption of soy products by small children is restricted, and if allowed, it is recommended not to be given to infants. Note, it is also advised that intake of soy products by adults, until completion of test reports in future, should not exceed a moderate amount.

In Italy, a recommendation was given in July 2002 that daily intake from foods
supplemented with phytoestrogen or soy isoflavones should not exceed 80 mg/day.

​

Citation :  AFSSA. Presentation du rapport sur “Securite et benefices des phyto-estrogenes apportesl’alimentation-recommandations (2005).