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Barley’s benefits: Why Food Manufacturers are turning to the technical good of beta-glucans
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Thursday, 14 November, 2024, 16 : 00 PM [IST]
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Christian Philippsen
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Here’s a sobering truth – coronary heart disease (CHD) may be the leading cause of death worldwide, yet a 2023 survey by the American Heart Association noted more than half (51%) of respondents did not know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in their country. In Southeast Asia, CHD is responsible for 30% of annual deaths – and almost half (48%) of these cardiovascular disease-related deaths occurred prematurely, affecting individuals aged between 30 and 70 years, according to the World Health Organisation.
Today’s health-conscious world has witnessed a significant shift toward eating habits, that prioritise long-term health over immediate satisfaction. However, surveys like the above underscore the importance of preventive dietary choices – and how simple decisions to include whole grains and fibre as part of a healthy diet, can go a long way in lowering the risk of CHD.
A strong market potential exists for new product developments with proven health benefits that can be claimed on pack, such as with the humble barley!
1: Authorised by Global Official Bodies
For savvy consumers looking for scientific-backed authorisations, the positive health effects of beta-glucans have been shown in more than 120 scientific studies and recognised by official bodies such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other national authorities.
In particular, Beneo’s Orafti ß-Fit earned its certification from the American Heart Association. Derived from a barley variety naturally high in beta-glucan, this innovative ingredient works to support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving overall cardiovascular function.
2: Clean Taste and Clean Label
As a 100% wholegrain flour made from barley, its Orafti ß-Fit provides 20% beta-glucan fibres – which is significantly higher than conventional cereal flours. It also features a clean taste and neutral colour for seamless integration into various formulations, while its natural thickening properties enhance texture by increasing viscosity, making it suitable for dairy and dairy alternatives.
Additionally for customers mindful about sustainable and clean business practices, Orafti ß-Fit ticks the box. It is produced with the use of the entire kernel. There is no waste in production and a 100% valorisation of raw material, with no water resources needed.
3: Cost-Effective Ingredient
Which would you pick for breakfast: three bowls of oatmeal or 15grams of Orafti ß-Fit?
Both deliver the required 3g of beta-glucans the human body requires daily. However, with Orafti ß-Fit, beta-glucans can be easily and economically included in a variety of food items- from breakfast cereals and bread, to pasta, baked goods, and dairy alternatives. Its versatility enables food manufacturers to innovate while addressing diverse consumer preferences.
4: Stability and Reliability
This ingredient is pH and temperature stable, ensuring that it maintains its functional properties throughout processing and shelf life. This reliability is crucial for manufacturers looking to deliver consistent quality in their products. Moreover, when it comes to reformulating recipes with Orafti ß-Fit, most applications allow for a straightforward 1:1 replacement of the original flour ingredient, such as bleached white flour, with its enriched beta-glucan Orafti ß-Fit flour, and be able to support a heart healthy claim.
5: Fibre Friendly
Beta-glucans are not digested by the human enzymes of the small intestine, but are completely fermented by the microbiota in the colon. By adding Orafti ß-Fit – which delivers a total fibre content of 40% (inclusive of beta-glucans) to meals, manufacturers can market this as a smart way of easily elevating digestive health, by promoting bowel regularity and supporting gut microbiota for enhanced nutrient absorption.
Choosing Orafti ß-Fit enables manufacturers to help consumers attain a sustainable approach towards supporting heart health, while simultaneously benefiting from a high-quality fibre that promotes gut health — all of which are essential for maintaining vitality as we age.
(The author is managing director at Beneo, Asia Pacific)
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