Sabinsa’s patented colour-free Curcumin C3 Reduct tetrahydrocurcuminoids, a metabolite of curcumin, has been found to meet criteria as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) as per FDA’s scientific procedures.

This follows a comprehensive review of safety and toxicology data by an independent panel of scientists of international repute convened by Soni & Associates.

“In coming to the conclusion that C3 Reduct, a standardized extract obtained by hydrogenation of the curcuminoids from the rhizomes of the Curcuma longa (turmeric) is GRAS, the panel critically evaluated the publicly available data, manufacturing process, specifications, intended use levels, and other information summarized in the GRAS dossier,” Madhusudan Soni, who convened the scientific team, wrote in the report. “The panel considered that the available qualitative and quantitative scientific evidence, including human and animal data, to be sufficient to establish the safety of C3 Reduct at maximum levels for various foods and beverages, resulting in the 90th percentile all-user estimated intake of 239.20 mg/person/day. The safety assessment to ascertain GRAS status for C3 Reduct for the specified food uses meets FDA criteria for reasonable certainty of no harm by considering both the technical and common knowledge elements.”

C3 Reduct was, says the company, designed to deliver the benefits of Curcumin C3 Comple®, Sabinsa’s flagship product, that received a GRAS ‘Letter of No Objection’ in October 2013, but without the vivid colour inherent in turmeric extracts. Its colourless attribute is said to maks it ideal for use in food and beverage products.

“We’re pleased to have this independent verification that C3 Reduct is safe for use in foods and beverages, particularly given the strong demand of the benefits of curcumin among consumers,” said N. Kalyanam, Sabinsa’s President of R&D.