GLDHC for Ingredion's Hi-Maize resistant starch

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has granted Ingredion a General Level Digestive Health Claim (GLDHC) for Hi-Maize resistant starch in Australia.

Hi-Maize resistant starch is natural fibre made from corn. It is particularly suited to products like white breads, flat breads, pasta, fruit smoothies and protein shakes where it increases fibre content. The ‘white fibre’ is invisible to consumers as it increases fibre content without compromising taste and texture.

The claim dossier, prepared collaboratively between Ingredion and an external consultant, proposed a claim stating that “Resistant Starch 2 (RS2) helps to maintain/support a healthy digestive system when consumed as part of a healthy diet made up of a variety of foods”.

When resistant starch reaches the bowel, it is broken down by ‘good’ bacteria to bring about a number of beneficial changes to digestive health.  As well as boosting the activity of such healthy bacteria, Hi-Maize increases stool bulk and gives a mild laxative effect to promote ‘regularity’.

Studies have shown that in comparison with bran, resistant starch was well digested, produced an increase in daily stool weight and assisted passing. It also protects the mucous layer within the colon, which is believed to help protect colon cells.

Many public health authorities including the World Health Organisation, U.S. National Academy of Sciences, European Food Safety Authority and Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recognise the benefits of resistant starch for digestive health.