Swiss biotech company Evolva has launched L-arabinose, a natural sugar blocker used in food and beverages. 

The company is having commercial discussions with its major customers to supply the first volumes for 2021.

L-arabinose’s taste profile is well-suited for use in products such as yogurt, chocolate, soft drinks, ice cream, cereal, power bars and confectionery.

With a wide range of applications, L-arabinose has a current market value of CHF 250 million (US$281.8 million), which is expected to grow by at least 5 percent per annum, according to Evolva. 

“Increasing health problems due to sugar consumption and a surge in consumer preference for healthier and low-calorie sugar alternatives are stimulating market growth,” Oliver Walker, CEO of Evolva, tells FoodIngredientsFirst. 

“The market growth is driven by a plethora of factors, including the growth of developing economies, hectic lifestyles, growing awareness regarding health and nutrition, and the growing prevalence of diabetes and obesity.”

“As people around the world continue to strive to live a healthier lifestyle, we are helping our customers create healthier, more sustainable solutions. With this launch, we are confirming our ability to deliver innovations that support human health and well-being,” he says.

Promising health benefits
Studies show that L-arabinose (previously known as EVE-X157/Z4) as a sugar blocker can support healthy blood sugar levels and weight management. It also has potential application as a prebiotic.

As an ingredient to reduce sugar, L-arabinose is also frequently applied in the production of savory flavors such as chicken and beef.

Made by fermentation methods, L-arabinose is fully renewable and sustainable. It has a high-purity level (more than 99 percent) and no hydrochloric acid is used in the manufacturing process.

L-arabinose is also Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) as outlined by the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States (FEMA). It has been approved for use in food and beverages.

In November, Evolva reported good progress in scaling up L-arabinose to ensure supply for selected customers in 2021. 

COVID-19 pressures
In August, the company’s half-year 2020 results revealed a record order intake of CHF6.2 million (US$6.8 million) driven by the Health Ingredients sector. However, only CHF3.8 million (US$4.2 million) could be realized due to COVID-19-related delays at contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs). 

The company has also faced other pandemic headwinds, flagging stagnating customer demand in Flavors and Fragrances (F&F). 

Late last year, Evolva also said it is “proactively creating financial flexibility” amid the limited market visibility during the COVID-19 crisis.