Functional F&B: Bioiberica’s Collavant n2 collagen achieves GRAS status

03 Jul 2024 --- Bioiberica has obtained self-determined generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status in the US for its Collavant n2 native (undenatured) type II collagen for joint health, which can now be used in US functional food and beverages.

The company will showcase opportunities the achievement unlocks for functional food innovation at the upcoming IFT First exhibition in Chicago, US (July 14–17). 

“Obtaining self-determined GRAS status for Collavant n2 is a milestone, both for us and our North American customers,” comments Antonio Vendrell, marketing and communication director at Bioiberica. 

“For years, we’ve seen the positive impact of our ingredient in the nutraceutical and dietary supplement space, with its low daily dose of just 40 mg, neutral sensory properties and evidence-backed, immune-mediated mechanism of action. We’re delighted now to offer these benefits to functional food and beverage brands and work with them to craft exceptional, collagen-enriched products that speak to the modern health and wellness movement and today’s busy lifestyles.”  

Product applications 
An independent panel of scientists conducted a comprehensive and critical evaluation of Collavant’s safety data before determining its GRAS status in conventional foods. Bioiberica selected this panel of professors from the University of Illinois, US, and expert toxicologists per industry guidelines from the US Food and Drug Administration. 

With the newly obtained status, Collavant n2 can be used in various delivery formats for joint health, including collagen gummies, ready-to-drink shakes and snack bars, and various other F&B applications. 

At the upcoming IFT First trade show, Bioiberica will present new possibilities unlocked by Collavant n2’s self-determined GRAS status and highlight further opportunities for product development with the company’s hyaluronic acid matrix ingredients — Mobilee for joint and muscle health and Dermial for skin health. 

Joint health market 
Collavant n2’s latest accreditation arrives at a growing consumer demand for functional F&B solutions for joint health. 

The joint health market is driven by both older consumers looking for mobility support and younger generations wanting to maintain an active lifestyle. Industry experts highlight an expanding diversity in the market in ingredients, formats and target audiences. 

Collagen is an increasingly popular ingredient for joint health; products containing the ingredient are seen as among the fastest-growing products in supplements. As a result of this vast growth, Bioiberica underscores the need to educate the market on the use of collagen, bring transparency and explain the science behind it. 

Recently, Bioiberica released a study supporting the effects of 40 mg/day of its Collavant n2 native type II collagen intake on the joint functionality and quality of life of women with knee osteoarthritis in six weeks. 

By Jolanda van Hal