I’m glad that the whole antioxidant / happy bacteria / green tea industries are being not-so-gently proscribed by the EU. If the directive has been in preparation since 2006 and the more clinical trials needed take three years, then why haven’t they done any, rather than whingeing about how long the trials will take? Oh yes, because there won’t be any effect.

FYI none of these statements are true:

• apple cider vinegar can improve bowel movement
• the horsetail plant (Equisetum arvense L.) can help maintain
  normal hair
• green tea is good for blood pressure, cholesterol levels,
  bones, teeth and eyesight or that it works as an antioxidant
• cranberry juice can reduce the risk of urinary tract infection
  in women
• the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum supports the immune
  system
• sugar-free chewing gum can reduce dental plaque
• glucosamine can reduce the risk of osteoarthritis