BetaVia Complete receives positive novel food opinion from EFSA

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BetaVia Complete, an algae-sourced beta-glucan ingredient from Kemin Industries (Des Moines, IA) has received a positive safety assessment from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for its use as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. The novel food opinion on the ingredient reflects the thorough safety evaluation performed by the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods, and Food Allergens. EFSA therefore considers BetaVia Complete safe when used in food supplements, foods for total diet replacement for weight control, and as a food ingredient added to a number of food products. The conclusion was reached without the use of Kemin’s proprietary safety data.

"EFSA conducted an extremely rigorous evaluation of the safety data on BetaVia Complete, and this tremendous achievement demonstrates the strength of the novel food dossier Kemin Human Nutrition and Health submitted to EFSA," said Pedro Vieira, vice president, Europe and Latin America, Kemin Human Nutrition and Health, in a press release. "We are extremely excited to receive EFSA's positive opinion for our ingredient, BetaVia Complete, as Europe is a key market in terms of growth for both BetaVia and Kemin Human Nutrition and Health."

BetaVia Complete, derived from a dried, whole algae (Euglena gracilis) fermentate, contains greater than 50 percent beta 1,3 glucan, as well as proteins, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and carotenoids, making it ideal for year-round immune support products. "With increasing consumer demand for products that offer immune support, we are very excited to be one step closer to making BetaVia Complete available to European consumers who seek solutions to live a healthier life," said Miguel Martinho, marketing manager, Europe, Kemin Human Nutrition and Health.

The positive opinion from EFSA will allow Kemin to be granted a five-year exclusivity on sales of BetaVia Complete in Europe.