The new production facility is located adjacent to Circle Group's headquarters in Mundelein, Illinois. When fully operational, the plant will produce up to one million pounds annually of Z-trim.
Z-Trim, according to the manufacturers, is an all-natural, zero calorie fat replacement that reduces calories and increases healthy insoluble fiber in a variety of products without altering the food's original taste.
"Academic circles are beginning to validate what so many have already seen," said Greg Halpern, Circle Group's CEO, in April. "Z-Trim can significantly reduce fat and calories in a wide variety of foods without changing the taste or texture that consumers prefer."
The product, created by Fibergel Technologies, is made from corn bran and cellulose and is designed to be used not as a fat 'substitute' but as a fat replacement. Z-trim, that has GRAS status, comes as a fine powder and can be used as either powder or gel. The gel is created from combining the powder with water.
A major advantage, say the makers, is its high fiber content which can aid digestion as long as it is eaten in normal quantities. "Z-Trim should not encounter the same kind of problems as have some other similar products, such as Simplesse and Olestra as the product is a natural fiber changed little during processing," they say.
Mounting concerns over global weight and health issues have led major food manufacturers to take an increasing interest. Fibergel Technologies are already involved in a long-term agreement with Nestle which started at the beginning of this year.