EFSA's Latest Fluoride Assessment: Safe Intake Levels for All Age Groups

Fluoride Safe Intake Levels Have Been Updated!

What Are the Role and Sources of Fluoride in the Body?

Fluoride, a mineral found naturally in many foods, can also be obtained through dietary supplements. It stimulates new bone formation and prevents the onset and progression of tooth decay. As is well known, soil, water, plants, and foods contain trace amounts of fluoride.

Most of the fluoride entering the human body comes from water, food, and beverages, dietary supplements, toothpaste, and related products. About 80% or more of the ingested amount is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.

Effects resulting from excessive fluoride intake:

Joint pain or stiffness leading to osteoporosis
Muscle wasting
Neurological defects

EFSA’s Opinion

Based on recent scientific studies, EFSA has reassessed potential risks for consumers. In its latest publication, it has outlined safe/tolerable intake levels for all age groups. EFSA Scientific Committee Chair Susanne Hougaard Bennekou stated in her remarks that, based on current fluoride concentrations in European drinking water, they estimate that total fluoride exposure does not exceed the tolerable upper limit and does not pose a health concern. Emphasizing the importance of this assessment for children, the Chair of the EFSA Scientific Committee noted that high fluoride intake from drinking water or dental care products could lead to mild fluorosis (tooth discoloration).

Updated Levels for Infants, Children, and Adults

EFSA has established tolerable upper intake levels for infants and young children. According to these:

1 milligram (mg/day) for infants aged 0–12 months,
1.6 mg per day for children aged 1–3 years, and
2 mg per day for children aged 4–8 years.

NANOLAB Perspective: Why Is Fluoride Monitoring Important?

We conduct analyses of fluoride levels primarily in water, as well as in cosmetics, toothpaste, and other consumer products. The new safe intake levels established by EFSA require a more precise approach to the control of these products. Especially when it comes to sensitive groups such as infants, children, and the elderly, it is essential to know and monitor exposure levels.

For more information, contact us.

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