©Solabia-Algatech Nutrition
Israel-based food-tech firm Solabia-Algatech Nutrition has launched an algae-sourced beta-glucan ingredient for immune support.
The BioGlena beta-glucan ingredient comes in a powder format and is suitable for use in a variety of food and beverage applications, including soft gels, gummies, sachets as well as dairy food, beverages and nutrition bars.
According to Solabia-Algatech Nutrition, BioGlena is sourced from the euglena gracilis algae, and is produced using proprietary fermentation technology that ensures a beta-glucan content of over 55%, in addition to complete protein plus essential vitamins, minerals and fatty acids.
The company claims that the naturally occurring beta-1,3-glucans present in the euglena gracilis algae are specifically recognised by immune-cell receptors, with clinical studies demonstrating the positive impact on immunity.
Doron Safrai, CEO of Solabia-Algatech Nutrition said: “Beta-glucans, are naturally occurring polysaccharides known for their positive effect on the immune system, with more than 12,000 scientific papers published in the past few decades.
“While grains, yeast, and certain fungi are traditional sources of beta-glucans, researchers and formulators are increasingly recognizing E. gracilis as a significant high-value source.”
Omer Grundman, vice-president R&D for Solabia-Algatech Nutrition, added: “In E. gracilis, the beta-glucan molecules are concentrated inside free-floating granules inside the algae, as opposed to fungi and yeast sources, in which the powerful polysaccharides are bound to the cell wall.
“This eliminates the need for harsh extraction procedures to isolate the beta-glucans. BioGlena contains the whole algae and no cell wall, allowing the beta-glucans to be naturally released in the gastrointestinal tract during digestion. This is a major advantage of E. gracilis over other beta-glucan sources”.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024