Gnosis gets FDA no objection GRAS for non-animal chondroitin

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a letter of no objection for the GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status of Gnosis S.p.A.’s Mythocondro-branded non-animal chondroitin sulfate for use in foods and beverages.

Chondroitin sulphate has been claimed to help relieve joint pain and conditions such as osteoarthritis, with a review by the Cochrane Collaboration last year confirming its efficacy.

But its animal-derived nature has caused its safety and purity to be questioned.

Gnosis launched Mythocondro at Supply Side West 2016 in Las Vegas.

The company uses a fermentation process to produce its CS product, which it says makes the product consistent.

The notice, which can be accessed here, is for levels of the ingredient ranging from 50 to 200 milligrams per serving in beverage and beverage bases, milk and milk products, and chewing gum.

“With this new important achievement the US market opens its doors to Mythocondro, also suitable for people with dietary restrictions related to religious and animal supply issues,” said the company in a press release. “Mythocondro is under registration in several countries; in Europe the Novel Food Approval by EFSA is ongoing.”