Global ingredient manufacturer Kemin Industries has received a positive opinion from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for the use of BetaVia Pure, its algae-based 95% beta-1, 3-glucan ingredient in the European Union.

BetaVia Pure is manufactured through a patented process using Kemin’s proprietary strain of algae, Euglena gracilis. With its neutral odor, color, and small recommended dose, the postbiotic can be included in numerous finished product forms.

The EFSA opinion confirms that BetaVia Pure is considered safe when sued in food supplements for people aged one and older, in foods for total diet replacement for weight control, and as a food ingredient added to a number of food products intended for the general population.

EFSA reached the positive opinion thanks to safety data provided by Kemin, and granted the company a five-year exclusivity in the European Market.

“Receiving the second EFSA positive opinion on BetaVia—now with BetaVia Pure—allows us to bring our full algae beta-1,3-glucan product line to the European market,1,6” said Chris Sadewasser, Global Product Manager, Kemin Human Nutrition and Health. “This critical recognition is the result of EFSA’s meticulous evaluation of the data from Kemin’s dossier, which demonstrates the safety of our BetaVia ingredient in its more concentrated form, BetaVia Pure.”  

Kemin’s research found that the molecular structure of the ingredient is linked to potential immune support and gut health benefits, by priming activities of certain immune cells, protecting intestinal barrier integrity, and beneficially changing gut microbe populations.

“We are very pleased with the extensive work done by our R&D and regulatory teams that allowed Kemin to take a leading position in Europe’s algae beta-glucan market,” said Pedro Vieira, vice president, Europe, Kemin Human Nutrition and Health. “The rising interest in products offering both immune and gut support,2-4 combined with consumers’ desire for quality ingredients with proven safety and efficacy, makes our BetaVia ingredient line the solution for a new generation of formulas that meet these needs.”

BetaVia is recommended for use in functional foods in order to boost diets which are chronically low in fiber, or for those whose gastrointestinal tracts are experiencing the consequences of stress, according to the company.

BetaVia has an established regulatory status on a global basis, including in the U.S., Brazil, Japan, China and many other countries. Kemin Human Nutrition and Health’s naturally sourced solutions are GRAS, kosher, halal, vegetarian, gluten free, allergen free and non-GMO.