ANSES opinion on a case of anaphylaxis associated with the consumption of a food supplement containing passionflower in France

As part of the Nutrivigilance system, ANSES received in December 2019 a report of anaphylaxis probably attributable to the passionflower of a passionflower-based food supplement. To date, no scientific publication relating to an allergy or anaphylaxis to oral passionflower has been found.

In general, ANSES advises consumers:

• To report to an healthcare professional any undesirable effect occurring following consumption of a food supplement;
• To respect the conditions of use fixed by the manufacturer;
• To avoid multiple, prolonged or repeated intakes during the year of food supplements without having taken advice from a health professional (doctor, dietitian …);
• To be very vigilant with regard to abusive allegations; To be very vigilant regarding the purchase of products sold in non-traditional circuits (internet, gyms …)

The agency reminds healthcare professionals of the importance of their involvement as reporters in transmitting cases of undesirable effects that they suspect of being linked to the consumption of food supplements and invites them to report them to the nutrivigilance system.

For more information, you can consult the french report of the ANSES opinion on passionflower. Regarding the ANSES nutrivigilance device, you can consult the presentation of the device and the online declaration form (in french).

Orchidali can realize for you scientific literature reviews and analyzes.