Cognis, the No. 1 global supplier of natural beta-carotene, is putting the spotlight on Betatene® natural mixed carotenoids at this year’s SupplySide West trade show. Betatene® is now self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) as a nutrient for food and beverage applications. Cognis is also promoting Betatene® as a natural colorant composed of high concentration, algae-based natural carotenoids in water dispersible powders and oils.
Betatene® is GRAS as a Nutrient for Foods and Beverages
Cognis successfully completed its self-affirmed GRAS process utilizing a panel of independent experts that certified Betatene® is safe for use as natural beta-carotene in baked foods, eggs, dairy products, cereals, gelatins, puddings, processed fruits and juices, processed vegetables and juices, snacks, soups, fats and oils, meal replacements, and medical foods.
Laura Troha, Marketing Manager, Cognis Nutrition & Health, explained that products with Betatene® now may use “Natural Beta-Carotene” on the ingredient list and may carry these valuable labeling claims:
• Rich source of Vitamin A or Excellent Source of Vitamin A
• Helps Maintain Healthy Immune System
• Helps Maintain Healthy Skin
Betatene® is a Natural Colorant
Market research confirms that color is a leading factor influencing the consumer appeal of foods and beverages. And, the source of that color, whether it’s natural or synthetic, has become a key criterion in consumer decision-making. Consumer interest in natural colors is being driven by the overall demand for natural, “eco-friendly” products and concerns that synthetic colors may adversely impact a child’s behavior.
At SupplySide West, Cognis is showcasing Betatene®’s vibrant color spectrum, from deep reds to clear yellows, demonstrating the full range of natural color options. Betatene® is approved as a US food color under 21 CFR 73.95. Cognis recommends that food and beverage formulators explore the benefits of replacing existing color systems with truly natural ones. When manufacturers reformulate to natural color systems, Cognis offers strong technical service and application expertise. Technological advancements have made Betatene® a stable and versatile colorant for a variety of applications. Products with Betatene® as a natural colorant may include these labeling statements:
• Added color from natural-beta-carotene or Colored with natural beta-carotene
• Naturally derived, not synthetic
• Made with no synthetic colorants
About Betatene®
Betatene® natural mixed carotenoids provide multiple carotenoids extracted from Dunaliella salina algae, including beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and crytoxanthin. Betatene® contains both the cis- and trans-isomers of beta-carotene, compared to synthetic beta-carotene that typically provides only the trans isomer. The algae are cultivated in ponds in Australia, which are managed by Cognis in an environmentally responsible manner. Betatene® natural mixed carotenoids are harvested mechanically without the use of petro-chemical solvents. Such process control from raw material to finished product enables Cognis to deliver high-quality and consistent natural products.
For information in North America about Betatene®, please call 800-673-3702 to place an order or e-mail cognis.nhcustserv@cognis.com.
About Cognis:
Cognis (www.cognis.com) is a worldwide supplier of innovative specialty chemicals and nutritional ingredients, with a particular focus on the areas of wellness and sustainability. The company employs about 5,600 people, and it operates production sites and service centers in 30 countries. Cognis has dedicated its activities to a high level of sustainability and delivers natural source raw materials and ingredients for food, nutrition and healthcare markets, and the cosmetics, detergents and cleaners industries. Another main focus is on products for a number of other industries, such as coatings and inks, lubricants, as well as agriculture and mining.
Cognis is owned by private equity funds advised by Permira, GS Capital Partners, and SV Life Sciences. In 2008, Cognis recorded sales of about 3 billion euros and an Adjusted EBITDA (operating result) of 351 million euros.