In February, the Danish Ministry for Family and Consumer Affairs withdrew food supplements containing saw palmetto because of concerns about its effect on the hormone system coupled with a lack of data about its safety in long-term use.

Dr. Kirsten Pilegaard, PhD, senior advisor for the Danish Institute for Food and Veterinary Research stated, “On the basis of the information available, it is not possible to establish a dose that does not give rise to concern.”

As a result, saw palmetto was placed on the Drogeliste. In Denmark, when marketed products contain substances with safety concerns, the company is asked to show evidence that it is not dangerous. In the absence of such evidence, the product is withdrawn.

6/29/06 22:08 JR