Taiyo gets non-GMO verification on Sunfiber prebiotic ingredient

Japanese ingredient supplier Taiyo has expanded the certification support for its Sunfiber prebiotic ingredient with a Non-GMO Project verification.

Sunfiber, which is a galactomannan derived from guar, is also certified as organic, kosher and halal.  Such certifications are becoming increasingly important in the dietary supplement sphere.  More consumers are energized on the subject of GMO labeling, and an organic positioning for supplements in become more feasible and new 100% organic excipients become available to replace non organic flow agents and lubricants.

Scott Smith, vice president of Taiyo International, said the new verification is further proof of the quality of Taiyo’s supply chain management.

This confirms that Sunfiber is produced in compliance with rigorous best practices for GMO avoidance, including segregation and traceability to prevent contamination,” Smith said. “We chose to get Sunfiber Non-GMO Project Verified because we respect people’s right to know what is in their food and dietary supplements.”

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Taiyo derives Sunfiber from the stalk of the guar plant. Taiyo photo.

Taiyo has been developing Sunfiber over a period of more than two decades. The company has data backing its claim for the ingredient as a ‘regulating’ fiber, i.e. one that can help address consumers’ concerns over both constipation and overly loose stools.  Sunfiber is a highly soluble white powder, and the company says its ease of formulation as well as its attractive functional characteristics means it is suitable for a wide range of applications, from foods and beverages, to supplements and even medical foods.  The company passed an important milestone on the path to verification of these claims with the approval earlier this year by Health Canada of Sunfiber’s claims related to its effectiveness in treating symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), as well as its ability to relieve intestinal issues related to childhood constipation.