Beta carotene DRI as antioxidant unsupported by science, Omenn tells FNB panel.

Executive Summary

BETA CAROTENE DRI AS ANTIOXIDANT UNSUPPORTED BY SCIENCE, University of Michigan Exec VP Medical Affairs Gilbert Omenn, MD/PhD, declared at an Institute of Medicine Food & Nutrition Board workshop on dietary antioxidants in Washington, D.C. July 29. Discussing whether there is a sufficient scientific basis to recommend a dietary reference intake (DRI) level for beta carotene, Omenn said: "I would say no. I believe present knowledge has already indicated it is at best a weak or ineffective antioxidant in vivo."