Marinova attains GRAS status for fucoidan extracts

30-May-2017 - Last updated on 31-May-2017 at 15:30 GMT

Maritech fucoidan extracts and Undaria pinnatifida spore. Image: Marinova

Australian biotechnology company Marinova Pty Ltd has received a letter of no objection for its GRAS (Generally Recognised As Safe) status of its Maritech fucoidan extracts.

The US Food and Drug Administration sent a no objection letter on February 10, 2017 for fucoidan extracts from Fucus vesiculosus seaweed. This adds to an earlier successful GRAS notification for fucoidan extracts from Undaria pinnatifida seaweed in 2015.

Fucoidan is a bioactive polysaccharide that occurs naturally in brown seaweed. The company’s fucoidan extracts have been researched and shown to have a diverse range of bioactivities including immune support, digestive health, anti-inflammation, and anti-aging.

Comprehensive safety data and scientific research were used in the evaluation process, confirming safety at rates of up to 250mg per day.

“GRAS recognition is testament to the safety and quality of Maritech fucoidan extracts, giving our customers even further confidence that they are getting the highest quality and most effective fucoidan ingredients on the market,” said Marinova’s Operations Manager, Dr Damien Stringer.

The attainment of GRAS status complements existing regulatory accreditations in other jurisdictions, including Australia, Canada, Europe and China, said the company in a press release.