Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2021
900. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Health the terms of reference given to the Food Safety Authority ahead of the publication of its vitamin D scientific recommendations for food-based dietary guidelines for older adults in Ireland; if this study was requested to look at vitamin D in the general population in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1004/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Scientific Committee of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland was requested to fast track their current work on Vitamin D and older people to provide an evidence-base to the Department of Health to underpin public health policy for vitamin D supplementation in older people aged 65 plus years.
Under the Terms of Reference, the Scientific Committee was asked to:
1. Look at the vitamin D requirements for older adults and their current vitamin D intake status.
2. Consider how best to achieve vitamin D requirements, taking total vitamin D intake into consideration.
3. Determine the older population sub-groups that need vitamin D supplementation.
4. Determine the level of supplementation required within these sub-groups and the appropriate vitamin D supplement.
5. Consider any special circumstances.
6. Deliver scientific advice for population-based guidance to the Department of Health before the end of September 2020.
