Agency Seeks Views on Proposed Use of Cholesterol-Lowering Ingredient

Phytosterols are used by the food industry for their cholesterol-lowering properties. They are naturally present at low levels in vegetable oils and food derived from such oils.

26/06/08 The Agency is consulting on an initial draft opinion which considers that a phytosterol ingredient submitted by Naturis (ACI Group Ltd) is substantially equivalent to those already marketed by Archer Daniels Midland.

Archer Daniels Midland has had authorisation to use its phytosterol ingredients since 2004. In November 2007, Naturis applied to sell phytosterols across similar food categories using the simplified procedure for approving novel foods.

The Agency’s draft opinion follows an initial public consultation period and discussions by the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes.

Phytosterols are used by the food industry for their cholesterol-lowering properties. They are naturally present at low levels in vegetable oils and food derived from such oils.

Naturis intends to use their phytosterol ingredient in yellow fat spreads, salad dressings, milk type products, fermented milk type products, soya drinks and cheese type products.

The company’s request to sell the ingredient was made on the grounds that the product, which is derived from soya, is equivalent to one already marketed by Archer Daniels Midland.