Iron and Health

The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) will release their draft report on Iron and Health for a 14-week scientific consultation on 17 June 2009.

The draft report considers the health consequences of both iron deficiency and excess as well as the adequacy of iron nutrition in the UK population. On the basis of their review of the evidence, SACN have made draft recommendations, including a recommendation on meat consumption advice. It is important to note that this is a draft report and the draft recommendations do not constitute a change to Government policy.

You are invited to comment on the draft report, which will be available on the SACN website (www.sacn.gov.uk) from 17 June 2009. The 14-week scientific consultation will take place between 17 June and 23 September 2009. Respondents will be asked to comment on the scientific content of the report only as risk management issues are outside SACN's remit.

The Agency is planning to hold meetings with interested stakeholders during the consultation period to discuss the scientific evidence on iron and health. If you are interested in attending one of these meetings please contact Fiona Macleod on email: [email protected]

If you have any questions in relation to the draft report or scientific consultation, please contact the SACN Secretariat on email: [email protected].

Yours sincerely

Dr Anna Whyte
Head of Science
FSA Scotland