Cyvex Nutrition achieves self-affirmed GRAS for blackcurrant extract, 'one of the most potent berry extracts on the market'

30-Jan-2013 - Last updated on 30-Jan-2013 at 13:47 GMT

The active components in blackcurrants are claimed to have immunomodulatory, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects

An independent panel of experts has determined that Cyvex Nutrition’s Euro Black Currant extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in a wide range of functional foods and beverages, following a review of safety and toxicology data.

Dark-colored berries rich in minerals and vitamins, blackcurrants are a better source of antioxidants than blackberries and blueberries, and are packed with anthocyanins, claims Cyvex.

“Cyvex's Euro Black Currant extract is standardized to 25% anthocyanins, making it one of the most potent berry extracts available on the market."

'Transform conventional food and beverage offerings into functional products...'

"With this GRAS designation, manufacturers can now safely and easily incorporate Euro Black Currant to transform conventional food and beverage offerings into functional products that deliver powerful antioxidant benefits," says sales and marketing director Constance Ostler.

"Euro Black Currant is poised for tremendous market growth in the coming years, especially as consumer interest in antioxidant products remains strong."

Based in Irvine, CA, Cyvex Nutrition supplies proprietary, condition-specific ingredients to the nutraceutical industry. Its brand stable includes BioVin, SOLATHIN, Novusetin, OmegaPure and OmegaActiv.

In late 2010, it was acquired by Omega Protein Corporation, a leading producer of omega-3 fish oil and specialty ingredients for use in functional foods and nutritional supplements.