Ingredion launches new ‘slowly digestible’ carbohydrate

The new ingredient, called SUSTRA 2434​​, is marketed as a ‘clean label’ slowly digestible carbohydrate made out of corn starch and tapioca flour, developed for manufacturers of energy nutritional products like bars, shakes, mixes, snacks, and supplements.

Ingredion’s own research showed that the ingredient may promote a lower glycemic index and steadier blood sugar levels over an extended period, leading to balanced, long-lasting energy. This means finished product manufacturers can use a simple label on packaging, and make claims such as ‘low glycemic index’ and ‘sustained blood glucose,’ according to Ingredion.

“With its clean taste profile, sensory acceptance and appealing consistency, manufacturers can now easily develop convenient, consumer-desired energy products,”​ Ingredion​​ said in a press release.

In addition, it is gluten- and FODMAP-free (the latter referring to compounds that may contribute to symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome). Ingredion also claimed that it has no adverse osmotic or digestive tolerance effects. The ingredient is certified to conform to the company’s own TRUETRACE program for non-genetically modified ingredients.

“Ingredion’s proprietary research has shown that consumers are seeking more energy to help them be more productive and increase their overall well-being,’’​ said Maria Stewart, PhD, clinical research lead at Ingredion. “Unlike some carbohydrates that cause a sharp spike followed by a drop in blood sugar, leading to a ‘crash’, SUSTRA 2434 slowly digestible carbohydrate is designed to be slowly digested and produce a reduced glycemic response, an effect that has been confirmed in clinical studies.”​

The issue of providing energy without the subsequent crash—a typical negative effect of caffeine—has been an arena in which ingredient manufacturers are striving to innovate. Also in the category is the green tea-derived TeaCrine by Compound Solutions​​ and slow-release green coffee bean by Taiyo​​.

Ingredion will be exhibiting applications of its SUSTRA ingredient at this week's SupplySide West in Las Vegas at booth #LL135.