Sensus Gets GRAS OK and USDA Approval for Frutafit® Inulin

Monmouth Junction, New Jersey - Sensus America, LLC announces that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that it has no objections to the Sensus claim that inulin is Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS). After extensive review of the Sensus GRAS Submission, the agency has listed the Notice as No. GRN 00018. "We know that this is an important step in bringing Americans closer to the many physiological and functional benefits that inulin offers," said Bryan Tungland, vice president of scientific & regulatory affairs for Sensus.

Inulin and Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
Inulin can be used for many functional and health reasons in a wide variety of foods and beverages. Many applications of inulin as a health-ingredient are related to its properties as soluble, prebiotic fiber: in formulating low carb(ohydrate) foods, improving Ca-uptake in the body and in promoting a healthy micro-flora and immune function in the colon. Inulin also enhances mouthfeel and taste in beverages, yogurt, soups, sauces, spreads and intermediate moisture foods through its unique textural properties.

Last month Sensus announced the first approval of a "healthy colon" claim for its Frutafit® inulin product by the Dutch Public Health Ministry. The approval was granted for Frutafit® inulin's use in breads.

FSIS approves Inulin as Binder in Non-Standardized Meat Products
The FDA also consulted with the labeling and Consumer Protection Staff of the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the FDA. FSIS has approved the use of inulin as a water binder, emulsifier, stabilizer and texturizer at a level between two and five percent in non-standardized meat food products. FSIS is in the process of completing rule-making that would permit the use of any safe and suitable binder in foods that already permit the addition of binders, such as hot dogs.

North American Products Being Developed
Sensus America is working with several North American-based food manufacturers on similar applications of its Frutafit® inulin and Frutalose™ fructooligosaccharide (FOS), partially hydrolysed inulins. "There are already many successful products in the market and we expect many more with the final FDA-approval for the Frutafit-inulin" said Sally Brain, vice president of sales and marketing for N-America.

Sensus
Sensus is a leading supplier of food ingredients to food and beverage makers in more than 45 countries. Sensus America is headquartered in New Jersey and is a subsidiary of Sensus N.V., Roosendaal, The Netherlands. Its products include Frutafit® and Frutalose™ inulin/fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and Frutasun® high fructose syrup.

For Additional Information:
http://www.inulinplaza.com
http://www.sensus.us