Beneo’s Orafti β-Fit, a beta-glucan rich ingredient, fulfills the American Heart Association’s nutritional requirements to carry the organization’s Heart-Check seal.
 
The seal demonstrates the nutritional quality standard of the whole grain barley flour. The Heart-Check certification program is based on the science of the American Heart Association regarding dietary recommendations, specific product ingredients, and nutrient values.
 
“We are extremely proud to have passed the American Heart Association’s strict evaluation criteria and are now able to make use of the well-known and highly valued Heart-Check mark. Products carrying that symbol demonstrate their high nutritional standard, making it easier for consumers to make better food choices,” said Denisse Colindres, manager of nutrition communication, North America, at BENEO. “This distinctive mark signifies Oraftiβ‑Fit’s compliance with high heart-healthy standards, showing manufacturers at a glance that Oraftiβ‑Fit is an ingredient they can trust.”
 
Orafti β-Fit is a 100% whole grain barley flour with a total fiber content of 40%, standardized to 20% beta-glucan fibers, which is significantly higher than conventional cereal flours. According to a review of 11 clinical studies, daily consumption of three grams of barley beta-glucan or more is associated with reductions in LDL cholesterol. Beta-glucans derived from barley have also been associated with blood sugar management and overall cardiovascular health benefits.
 
The health benefits of beta-glucans have been evidenced by over 120 scientific studies, and have been recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and other national authorities.
 
Orafti β-Fit is suitable for applications such as bread, pasta, and more, as an affordable source of beta-glucan enrichment.
 
Citing research by FMCG Gurus, two-thirds of North American consumers are interested in heart health products, even if they aren’t suffering from specific health problems, Beneo reports. A similar number of North American consumers agree with the statement, “I find products positioned around improving heart health appealing,” a recent survey from HealthFocus International found.