Geno has entered the functional foods and beverages market with the launch of its new functional ingredient, Avela natural (R)-1,3-Butanediol.

Made from plant sugars using a fermentation process, the plant-based ingredient provides a source of natural energy and is free of caffeine, gluten and salt.

The novel, sugar-free ingredient offers a fast and simple way to raise beta- hydroxybutyrate (BHB) ketone levels, an energy source made in the body during ketosis and can be used to formulate a broad range of keto-friendly products across a variety of categories.

Geno’s senior vice president, specialty products, Damien Perriman, said: “As a longstanding sustainability leader, we are well-positioned to disrupt the keto industry in ways not possible until now. Geno’s safe and sustainable fermentation processes have revolutionised some of the largest industries in the world, and we’re excited to bring this leading-edge technology to the functional foods and beverages market.”