Experts from EFSA has said that some substances belonging to a group of plant ingredients known as hydroxyanthracene derivates can damage DNA and may cause cancer, said EFSA after assessing their safety when added to food.
In 2013, EFSA found that hydroxyanthracene derivates in food can improve bowel function, but advised against long-term use and consumption at high doses due to potential safety concerns. The European Commission subsequently asked EFSA to assess the safety of these plant ingredients when used in foods, and provide advice on a daily intake not associated with adverse health effects.
Based on the available data, EFSA concluded that certain hydroxyanthracene derivatives are genotoxic. Therefore it was not possible to set a safe daily intake. When tested in animal studies, some of these substances have been shown to cause cancer in the intestine.