FrieslandCampina Ingredients, a supplier specializing in protein and probiotics, announced that it received 16 health claim approvals from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).

Biotis Fermentis, an ingredient comprised of co-fermented whey protein, galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), and probiotic cultures, received 12 health claims suitable for the active and sports nutrition market. Meanwhile, Biotis GOS and Vivinal GOS were approved for claims related to supporting iron and calcium absorption in adults and children over one year old.

Emerging research suggests that there is an interplay between gut health and optimal muscle function, body composition, and exercise performance. A majority (86%) of athletes report experiencing gastrointestinal issues related to training and competition stressors. Biotis Fermentis is formulated to support both athletic performance and holistic helath.

These latest FSANZ approvals mean that products formulated with Biotis Fermentis can be advertised as supporting gut health and the gut-muscle axis, as well as improved muscle recovery and supporting athletic performance, among other health claims. This can enable unique product positionings in the competitive active nutrition and sports nutrition sectors, FrieslandCampina reported.

“Sport plays a vital role in the cultural identity of Australia and New Zealand, with over one-third of Australian consumers regularly participating in fitness or gym activities,” said Vicky Davies, global marketing director of performance, active, and medical nutrition. “These FSANZ-approved health claims are an important milestone, enabling sports and active nutrition brands to stand out by highlighting the gut health and performance benefits of Biotis Fermentis, ultimately helping active consumers and athletes feel at their best.”

In the early life nutrition market, parents are prioritizing scientifically-backed oslutions to ensure their children receive important nutrients during critical growth stages, and the adequate intake of minerals like iron and calcium are important for bone and cognitive development, noted the company. Iron deficiency currently impacts one in eight Australians.

GOS can contribute to mineral absorption by reducing pH in the intestine, increasing acidity, which makes mienrals more soluble. FSANZ has recognized Biotis GOS and Vivinal GOS as capable of supporting iron and calcium absorption from food, making these ingredients well-positioned for the early life, performance, and active nutrition markets.

“We’re committed to developing science-backed solutions that help consumers of all ages get the most out of life, always,” said Tjalling Bekker, APAC regional director. “The FSANZ approval of our Biotis GOS and Vivinal GOS mineral absorption claims reinforces this commitment and now means that brands can tap into parents’ and health-conscious consumers’ growing demands for clear and credible health claims.”