The citrus sector has hit back at reports of a study purporting to show a link between the consumption of grapefruit and breast cancer after fears the story would strike a blow to sales were confirmed.
US scientists at the universities of Southern California and Hawaii claimed that eating grapefruit every day could raise the risk of developing breast cancer by almost a third after conducting a study on 50,000 post-menopausal women.
The story was picked up by the international press.
Justin Chadwick at the Citrus Growers’ Association of South Africa told freshinfo the reports had hit the category and caused the cancellation of some sales to the Far East. “We value the contribution that science and research make to our industry, however, we call on those who conduct research, those who publish research and those who report on published research to do so responsibly,” he said.
The Florida Department of Citrus assembled leading scientists in oncology, pharmacology, nutrition science and epidemiology to review the research.
“The consensus from this group of experts is that the data shows only a weak association between grapefruit consumption and the risk of breast cancer,” Bob Norberg, deputy executive director of research and operations at the Florida Department of Citrus, told freshinfo. “In addition, our experts’ dialogue with the researchers has provided them with new insight into compounds found in grapefruit that may affect future research, and impacts the interpretation of the results they have published.
“The study authors now agree more strongly with statement made at the end of their published paper pointing out the need for additional research and collaboration. This is especially important because the findings are in conflict with prior, consistent, and highly credible research on the positive health and wellness benefits associated with grapefruit consumption.”
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