An independent panel of experts has declared self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status for Physicor, Novel Ingredient Services’ proprietary sports nutrition ingredient, which has been clinically shown to safely increase visceral body-fat burn while triggering the synthesis of lean muscle in association with resistance training.

Following a comprehensive evaluation of research studies and toxicology data, the panel concluded that Physicor is safe for use as an ingredient not only in nutritional supplements, but also the full range of functional foods and beverages. According to the FDA, self-affirmed GRAS status is awarded to any substance that qualified experts recognize as having been adequately shown to be safe under the conditions of its intended use and that is manufactured in accordance with current Good Manufacturing Practices.

“We are very pleased to have received GRAS status for Physicor,” said Rick Antonoff, Novel president and CEO. “Given its outstanding solubility and neutral flavor profile, Physicor can be easily incorporated into functional foods and beverages without altering organoleptic properties such as taste, texture, and mouthfeel. With its unique ability to cut and build core muscle, Physicor is particularly well suited for sports nutrition bars, as well as ready-to-drink and powdered formulas.”

Introduced in October 2016, Physicor is a patented fenugreek extract standardized to a proprietary 70% oligosaccharide content. This proprietary compound not only breaks down fat—thereby inhibiting fat storage—but also amplifies IGF, an insulin-like growth factor that signals the body to produce lean muscle and strengthen bones. Physicor offers stability across a range of delivery forms: tablets, capsules, powders, beverages, and a variety of functional foods, including confectionery products, cereals, baked goods, and nutrition bars.