Beneo’s Chicory Inulin Receives EU Digestive Health Claim

Photo © iStockphoto.com/iLex

EU products containing chicory root fiber inulin from Beneo (Mannheim, Germany) can now carry the proprietary health claim “chicory inulin contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency.”

Beneo announced today the EU Comission had authorized the article 13.5 health claim after the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) positively evaluated research behind the ingredient, including six human intervention studies supporting the consumption of Beneo’s Orafti inulin for increasing stool frequency.

“The authorization confirms that Beneo’s prebiotic fiber inulin contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency without triggering diarrhea,” says Beneo, in a press release. “This is possible because inulin resists digestion in the small intestine and is fully fermented in the large intestine.”

In addition to the aforementioned 13.5 proprietary health claim, EU products containing Beneo’s insulin can also carry article 10.3 general health-related well-being claims, such as “chicory insulin promotes digestive health” or “chicory root fiber supports a healthy and balanced digestive system.”

Manufacturers interested in using the new health claims should consider a daily intake of 12 grams of chicory inulin is recommended to achieve the beneficial effect, says Beneo. The 12 grams can be split up into several servings over the course of the day.

“With the recent proprietary health claim for Beneo’s chicory inulin improving bowel function, our customers are well-set to make the most of the ever-growing consumer trend of digestive health,” says Anke Sentko, vice president of regulatory affairs and nutrition communication, Beneo. “At the same time the approval shows once again that Beneo’s commitment to strong scientific evidence of its ingredients is the right approach to contribute to the long-term benefit of consumers.”

Read more:

Crackdown on Probiotic Health Claims Costs Billions for EU Yogurt Industry

Can Chicory Root Fiber Fight Childhood Obesity?

Inulin Fiber: A Manufacturer’s Dream

Michael Crane
Associate Editor
Nutritional Outlook Magazine
michael.crane@ubm.com