French health authorities have raised concerns over soy products, urging canteens at schools and workplaces to eliminate soy-based foods from their menus. The recommendation was issued by France’s national food safety agency, Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire (ANSES), advising against the consumption of soy products due to potential health risks.
The warning, applicable to all age groups and catering establishments, including daycares, schools, companies, nursing homes, and hospitals, specifically targets soy-based items like veggie burgers, non-dairy milk, yogurts, and other soy-rich snacks. ANSES emphasizes the need for diversification in plant-based offerings, suggesting alternatives such as chickpeas and lentils to reduce reliance on soy.
ANSES highlights the presence of high levels of ‘isoflavones’ in soy-based foods, which can act as phytoestrogens mimicking female hormones and potentially disrupt endocrine function when consumed excessively. The agency’s Nutrition Risk Assessment Unit head cautioned about the adverse effects on reproductive health associated with the overconsumption of soy products.
In a previous press release, French health authorities mentioned that occasional soy consumption does not pose significant risks except for young children, pre-adolescents, and pregnant women. ANSES specified the threshold for harmful effects, indicating that exceeding 0.02mg of isoflavones per kg of body weight per day could lead to health risks, with a lower threshold of 0.01mg for specific vulnerable groups.
Despite conflicting views on the health impacts of soy, some studies have suggested potential benefits, such as a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with soy-based diets. European health authorities have also reported positive outcomes, including lower risks of heart-related conditions in individuals following soy-based dietary patterns.
The debate surrounding soy consumption continues, with ANSES urging caution and advocating for moderation in soy intake to mitigate potential health risks. As the discussion evolves, ongoing research and monitoring are essential to understand the full spectrum of effects associated with soy products on human health.
📰 Related Articles
- Why Dermatologists Love La Roche-Posay Beauty Products for Skin Health
- Vietti Food Group Recalls Yellowstone Baked Beans Over Undisclosed Soy Allergen
- Utah Bakery Recalls Products Over Undisclosed Allergen Concerns
- Study Reveals Risks of Music Compression on Hearing Health
- Study Reveals Gluten and Soy Allergens in Medicinal Products