Blue California’s Taxifolin BC-DHQ with super antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties is now generally recognised as safe (GRAS) in a range of foods and beverages following a letter of no objection from the FDA.
Dihydroquercetin (DHQ), also known as taxifolin, is a flavonoid commonly found in apples, olive oil and red onions. As a flavonoid, taxifolin possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support immune health.
“This GRAS status is good news for consumers and brands alike, because it opens new doors for brands to create products that will excite health-conscious consumers,” said Dr Linda May-Zhang, research, science and innovation officer at Blue California. “DHQ is a powerful antioxidant that has a greater antioxidant capacity when compared to vitamin C, and it is ideal in a variety of on-trend food applications, including beverages, yogurt and chocolate products.”
Health-conscious consumers are exploring functional food and beverages for immune health and wellness support. Immune health will remain a top priority for consumers as 64% of global consumers are looking to improve their immunity over the next 12 months, according to FMCG Gurus, Top Ten Trends for 2021, Dec. 2020.
DHQ seeks and neutralises free radicals in the body, Blue California says, and its molecular structure makes it effective at preventing cellular damage. It may also play a role in skin health as it protects cells and stimulates collagen and elastin production in the skin.
“Taxifolin BC-DHQ has much to offer as a powerful antioxidant in food and beverages as it provides improved colour stability for beverages, extends shelf life, and enhances flavour,” said May-Zhang. “Not only is DHQ regarded as a promising ingredient to immune health, it may also be used in cosmetic applications for anti-aging and UV-protection.”
Blue California offers food and beverage manufacturers its high purity Taxifolin BC-DHQ made by a sustainable process. Industry partner Conagen developed a scalable DHQ using its proprietary bioconversion process, it says, resulting in a sustainable production method.
"Conagen is unlocking novel compounds from nature which are more sustainable and offer better options for ingredient applications, said Dr Casey Lippmeier, VP of innovation at Conagen. “Our ability to rapidly scale-up and commercialise this and other novel ingredient solutions demonstrates our strength as a strategic service partner.”
