Novonesis probiotic strain granted stress relief and gastro-functional claims in Canada

12 Mar 2024 --- Getting claim approval for a probiotic is often arduous, especially proving it is a probiotic in the first instance and then that it targets the health benefit it claims to. To this effect, Health Canada has authorized several functional claims for Novonesis’ probiotic strain, Clepius L. plantarum.

“The strain is part of the strong clinically documented product portfolio from Novonesis, our new company name from the merger between Novozymes and Chr. Hansen. Officially registered health claims will drive increased interest in our clinically documented probiotics, as they provide guidance to consumers in making informed health choices and selecting the right probiotics for themselves,” says Jakob Rasmussen, vice president of human health, Novonesis.

The functional claims pertain to alleviating perceived stress and improving irritable bowel syndrome-related (IBS) quality of life in adults. According to the World Health Organisation, around one-third of the global population experiences digestive discomfort at some stage.

Wielding the gut-brain axis
Research into the gut-brain axis is advancing significantly to explore how the interplay between the brain, gut and microbiome impacts physical and mental well-being. Novonesis notes that people who have IBS frequently report feeling sad, embarrassed and self-conscious, which affects their quality of life and could even limit participation in social activities. 

“It is our experience that such official functional claims reinforce consumer confidence that the products are of high quality, safe and effective, also when it comes to influencing psychological distress related to digestive challenges,” Rasmussen explains.

 Clepius has been approved for claims of relieving the symptoms of IBS in adults, improving abdominal pain severity, reducing the duration and relieving diarrhea, supporting intestinal or gastrointestinal health and promoting favorable gut flora. The probiotic strain is further authorized to alleviate perceived stress in adults with IBS and improve IBS-related quality of life.

Meanwhile, the demand for fiber and protein is at its highest, with food formulators being inventive in incorporating this type of carbohydrate into products. Another significant development in the biotics space is the evolution into synbiotics, postbiotics and psychobiotics, while sports nutrition and personalized nutrition are poised for upgrades.

Stamp of approval
IBS is one of the most common functional bowel disorders, with between 4–9% associated with ongoing gastrointestinal discomfort. Clepius — one billion live probiotic bacteria contained in a serving — shows significant health benefits after four weeks for gut health and perceived stress. 

“We are excited about the strong science behind this probiotic strain, which resulted in a fast recognition by Health Canada. It is not only putting a quality stamp on the science that backs Clepius but also adding credibility to our offering in the emerging field of the gut-brain axis,” says Niklas Larsson, head of scientific affairs, human health, Novonesis.

In 2023, the European Commission cleared the merger between Novozymes and Chr. Hansen, conditional upon full compliance with the commitments offered by the parties to divest interests in lactase manufacturing. Kerry Group entered into a definitive agreement to acquire part of the worldwide lactase enzyme business of Chr. Hansen and Novozymes, on a carve-out basis. 

By Inga de Jong