The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is seeking public input on the health risks of estragole in fennel seed preparations after German authorities raised concern about fennel seed products intended for infants.

Fennel seed preparations contain estragole, a naturally occurring compound that is genotoxic and carcinogenic.

EFSA reviewed the available scientific evidence on preparations of both sweet and bitter fennel seeds, which are commonly used in infusions and other food products such as spice mixes and supplements.

The agency was unable to establish a safe level of exposure to estragole based on the available data, concluding that consumption of fennel seed preparations may pose a health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as babies, young children, and breastfed infants and fetuses when consumed by lactating or pregnant women. However, preparations in which estragole has been removed by manufacturers during the production process or is undetectable are not considered to pose a health risk.

The draft scientific opinion on fennel preparations is open for public comment until September 25, 2025. Comments can be submitted here.