Approval for the mushroom-derived ingredient follows similar approvals in Europe (Novel Foods) and the US (Food Additive Petition).
Earthlight is produced from mushrooms via a patented process by exposing these mushrooms to light. The ingredient delivers 1,000 micrograms (40,000 IU) of Vitamin D per gram of ingredient. Low use levels do not affect the organoleptics of a food or beverage product, and it is available in both conventional and organic grades, according to a press release.
The approval was achieved by collaboration between US-based PLT Health Solutions, Earthlight innovator Oakshire Naturals, and PLT's exclusive Brazilian distributor for retail products, Tovani Benzaquen Ingredientes (Sao Paulo). Brazilian regulatory specialist Visanco Assistencia Tecnica e Administrativa Eireli (Brasilia) assembled the dossier that addressed the myriad requirements of ANVISA on dietary ingredients. The approval process took almost two years.
“Earthlight is the right ingredient at the right time for food and beverage producers and over-the-counter supplement formulators in Brazil, as well as multinationals seeking to create global formulations,” said Jay Martin, Managing Director, Global Sales at PLT Health Solutions.
“Interest in Vitamin D and its role in supporting immunity, bone health, healthy aging and overall good health has increased dramatically in the last three years. As a whole-food, plant-based, non-GMO and organic ingredient, Earthlight supports virtually every major food, beverage and supplement market trend and will give product formulators the cleanest label option on the market.”
“Vitamin D has been a subject of intense interest in Brazil over the last two years,” added Moses Benzaquen, Director Presidente of Tovani Benzaquen.
“Earthlight is a perfect way to introduce a high-quality Vitamin D into products for health conscious people. Made from high quality mushrooms, it is organic, non-GMO, minimally processed and sustainable. We look forward to working with PLT in bringing these benefits to the Brazilian market,” said Benzaquen.