Garuda nutraceutical ingredients certified organic

The certification from Oregon Tilth (OTCO) includes its Nopal cactus powder, a range of medicinal mushroom powders, citrus peel powders, Jerusalem artichoke flour, amaranth and quinoa ingredients.

Sustainability drive​

The firm said its organic certification fits in with its overall strategic growth plan and its commitment to sustainable agriculture and business practices.

“Organic Certification is yet another significant milestone in our mission of strong environmental responsibility as was our recent completion of our ‘green’ corporate facilities located in Exeter, California,"​ said Garuda president and chief executive officer Roger Matkin.

As well as the OTCO certification, the company said its Exeter facilities have been certified organic under the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Organic Program.

Garuda, which supplies its nutraceutical ingredients to the food, beverage, supplement and cosmetics industries, said a range of its products are also Kosher and Halal certified.

Products​

The company’s Nopal cactus powder (Opuntia Ficus indica), marketed under the brand name PuntiaVera, claims to help regulate blood sugar levels. According to the company, the ingredient may also have benefits in the areas of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, weight control, gastro-intestinal support, inflammation and oxidative stress.

Jerusalem artichoke (helianthus tuberosis l.), a tuberous rooted perennial, is a source of fructooligosaccharides (FOS), prebiotics that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the human digestive tract.

The firm’s mushroom extracts are marketed as a source of B-vitamins thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. They also contain essential amino acids and beta-glucans, said Garuda.