National Starch Highlights Health Claim Potential of Resistant Starch and Barley Products

Hi-maize resistant starch can be used to support blood sugar management positioning with the commission authorising the claim “replacing digestible starches with resistant starch contributes to a reduction in the blood glucose rise after a meal.”

23 Jul 2012 --- National Starch Food Innovation, part of the Ingredion group of companies, announces that health claims for its ingredients Hi-maize 260 resistant starch and Sustagrain wholegrain barley - previously granted a positive opinion from EFSA - have now been approved by the European Commission.

• Hi-maize resistant starch can be used to support blood sugar management positioning with the commission authorising the claim “replacing digestible starches with resistant starch contributes to a reduction in the blood glucose rise after a meal.”

Hi-maize resistant starch is an invisible fibre which can enhance the nutritional profile of everyday products, including bread and pasta. Colourless and with a neutral taste and odour profile, Hi-maize resistant starch can be used in formulation without negatively affecting end product eating quality or visual appeal.

• The claims for Sustagrain wholegrain barley recognise that the ingredient contributes to “an increase in faecal bulk,” (digestive health claim) “the maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels” (heart health claim) and “the maintenance of healthy blood sugar levels” (blood sugar management claim).

Developed by ConAgra Mills and exclusively distributed by National Starch Food Innovation in Europe, Sustagrain wholegrain barley delivers 30% fibre and 12% beta glucans to applications such as cereal bars, luxury cereals and muesli.

“These health claims were among a relatively small number that were approved by the European Commission on 25 May 2012. Indeed, 1600 other claims were rejected, demonstrating the strength of science and clinical data needed to succeed in the European regulatory landscape today,” comments Julie Scott, European regulatory manager, National Starch Food Innovation. “By ensuring the scientific integrity of all health claims, the EFSA rulings will bring clarity to consumers’ purchasing decisions, giving them the peace of mind that a product will do exactly what on-pack messaging says it will.”

Laura Goodbrand, European marketing manager, Nutrition, National Starch Food Innovation., comments: “Combining innovative ingredients with the latest consumer, market and regulatory insights, we can partner with manufacturers to create differentiated products with strong, relevant health claims that will appeal to health conscious consumers throughout Europe.”