Royal Jelly
Royal jelly is consumed as a supplement but multiple regulatory bodies have warned of severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis, particularly in individuals with asthma or bee allergies. Some fatalities have been reported.
What it is
A nutrient-rich glandular secretion produced by worker honey bees to feed queen larvae and the queen bee.
Dietary supplement; sometimes added to functional foods or cosmetics.
Why it's flagged
- Risk of severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis
- Particular risk for individuals with asthma or bee allergies
What regulators actually say
"On the basis of the data presented, the Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of royal jelly and the claimed effects."
"Products containing royal jelly... must include the warning: 'This product contains royal jelly which has been reported to cause severe allergic reactions and in rare cases, fatalities, especially in asthma and allergy sufferers.'"
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Marketed as a dietary supplement; FDA has issued warning letters for unsubstantiated health claims.
European Union — EFSA
EFSA rejected proposed health claims for royal jelly under Regulation 1924/2006; allergy reports collected via Member States.
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