Clean label solution fortifies drinks with iron

A PATENTED encapsulated iron system will allow vegans, vegetarians as well as women in their child bearing years to increase their intake of iron.

AB-Fortis^® is GMO-free, all-natural, and contains a high amount of iron, and it can be formulated into a full range of food and beverage applications. The product is made by AB-Biotics Co. SA, Spain, and marketed exclusively by Frutarom BU Health, Switzerland.

The product undergoes a patented process for stable encapsulation with minimal release of free iron into the food matrix. The spherical gelation of ferric saccharate by calcium alginate results in an encapsulated iron salt with a high (40%) iron content. The product’s suitability for food matrices and consumer acceptability was demonstrated at a bakery in Spain.

Studies show that vegetarian (including vegan) men and women have lower iron stores compared to those who eat meat.

 “Because iron isn't as easily absorbed from plant sources, the recommended intake of iron for vegetarians is almost double that of non-vegetarians,” said Wouter Haazen, Product Manager for Frutarom Health. “It’s hard to increase iron intake from food alone.”

Iron is an important component of red blood cells, specifically for oxygen transport. A thorough scientific evaluation by EFSA led to the recognition that iron is a necessary nutrient that impacts energy metabolism, cognition and the immune system, among other body functions. Scientific studies demonstrate that iron deficiency leads to anemia, causing sufferers to feel chronically tired and out of breath (even after mild exertion), as well as having heart palpitations and a pale complexion.

Traditional iron supplements have a strong metallic taste and powerful oxidative properties—both undesirable for foods. They also are hard to digest, and sometimes cause nausea, constipation, gastric distress, and headaches.

Product launches positioned on a vegetarian or vegan platform have surged, with a 21% increase in 2014 over 2013, according to Innova Market Insights. Product launches of items suitable for vegetarians or vegans, and that have claims associated with iron, increased by 51% for the same period. Ingredient examples associated with iron claims include: pumpkin seeds, cacao, chia, quinoa, and lentils.

“These numbers confirm the need for a high-concentration iron solution for vegan and vegetarian foods,” added Haazen. “This microencapsulated iron ingredient allows fortification without changing appearance, palatability, or flavor of foods. AB-Fortis is stable under high pressures and temperatures, staying intact during processing. Further, it is highly bioavailable, as shown by a recent human clinical study.”