In 2005, Archer Daniel Midland and Acatris Health (now owned by Frutarom) formed the Flax Lignan Association (FLA) to support the science behind standardized flax lignan ingredients and protect their credibility from unscrupulous suppliers. SDG is the major lignan found in flaxseed. "Until now companies have used their own in-house methods for measuring the lignan content in their products," said Flax Lignan Association President, Frutarom's Laurent Leduc. "Having a standard method of measurement will ensure the accuracy and safety of products for consumers as more companies enter the flax lignan marketplace." The method is HPLC-based and FLA said it has been validated in multi-lab testing that was coordinated through its members. FLA also plans to get full AOAC International validation in order to set the testing as a standard method. Lignans are phytonutrients that occur naturally in fruits, vegetables, seeds and unrefined grains. Many ingredients are standardized to varying percentages of SDG. There is evidence lignans may have a beneficial effect on prostate health, bone health, breast health, menopause symptoms, heart health, hair loss, acne and inflammation. This is believed to be due to their conversion to the phytoestrogen enterolactone within the gastrointestinal tract.
