Health ingredients company Cognis Nutrition and Health announced on Wednesday that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared Cognis' Xangold lutein ester brand as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for addition to a variety of foods.

Cognis stressed that Xangold is the only source of lutein to complete this GRAS notification process. After self-affirming the product as GRAS in 2002 in consultation with a panel of independent experts, Cognis submitted a voluntary notification to the FDA.

The company said this week that the conclusion of the notification procedure - a written response from the FDA - provides assurance to food manufacturers and on the safety of Xangold for its intended food use.

"We are gratified that the FDA had no objection to our GRAS determination for Xangold, paving the way for its use in specific foods," said David Eckert, business director, North America, Cognis Nutrition & Health.

Lutein esters for the Cognis product Xangold, extracted from marigold flowers, provide a natural source of the carotenoid lutein found in dark green and yellow-orange vegetables and fruits. Lutein is currently being studied for its potential benefits in the maintenance of eye health.