Six traditional Chinese medicinal herbs allowed for use as food spices but health claims denied
The Chinese authorities has allowed the use of six traditional Chinese medicinal herbs as food spices, but manufacturers will not be allowed to attach any health claim under this process.
In an announcement made on Jan 6, China’s National Health Commission (NHC) listed the six herbs as danggui (Angelica sinensis), Shannai (Kaempferia galanga L.), xi hong hua (Crocus sativus L.), cai guo (Amomum tsao-ko), turmeric, and biba (Piper longum L.).
When manufactured as a general food, the product label, indication, advertisement, and promotion content for the herb must adhere to the Food Safety Laws.
As such, the product should not make claims related to disease prevention or disease treatment.
