Sweet approval: South Korea gives the green light for XIVIA Xylitol dental health claims

10 Apr 2019 --- Xylitol – a naturally derived wood-based sugar alternative – has long been touted by doctors and chewing gum brands for its anti-cavity properties. Last week, the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) issued a re-approval of the health claim by XIVIA Xylitol, part of the DuPont Danisco range of ingredients, which highlights a reduced risk of dental caries occurrence in Xylitol consumers from 3 to 80 years old.

In South Korea, functional ingredients that have passed 10 years since a health claim approval undergo a mandatory re-evaluation. With the latest re-approval, DuPont Nutrition & Health continues to work with manufacturers to create sugar-free products marketed with oral health in mind.

XIVIA Xylitol is said to deliver sweetness at 50 percent of the calorie level of sugar. In addition, it is preferred for its relatively low glycemic index, which makes it suitable for diabetic and health-conscious consumers.
In addition to replacing sugar in chewing gum and other confectionery applications, Xylitol is also a commonly incorporated into oral hygiene products, including toothpaste, mouthwash and teething gels.

Xylitol's age-old claims re-examined
In the re-evaluation of the sweetener, MFDS reviewed 146 research reports, including 94 clinical trials, and concluded that XIVIA xylitol helps reduce the risk of tooth decay occurrence, while also adjusting the recommended daily dosage from 10-25 grams to 5-10 grams – similar to international dental association standards.

In 2016, the South Korean government introduced a legislation that requires food manufacturers to provide more information on sugar levels in their food products. With consumers’ rising health consciousness in Korea, many local companies are already engaged in efforts to reduce sugar content in their food and beverage products.

“The re-approval of our xylitol is a significant milestone, as it exemplifies DuPont’s commitment to using science to provide innovative and beneficial solutions to the market. It also reassures and boost customers’ confidence in us,” Jin Choi, Sales Leader of XIVIA, Korea, comments.

“As the only food ingredient company with an approved xylitol claim, we are able to deliver better value to food manufacturers in differentiating their products in the market,” Choi notes.

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