The company claims to the be largest US-based supplier of USDA-certified organic inulin, a prebiotic fiber which it sources from Jerusalem artichoke tubers (inulin is also commonly extracted from chicory roots). The rising tide of demand for prebiotics of all sorts and especially organic versions means the company felt the need to expand its raw material storage capacity by 30,000 square feet in two buildings at its facility in Weiser, ID. The company also operates a 500-acre organic farm.
"Our Jerusalem Artichoke Fiber (Inulin) provides food, beverage, and dietary supplement customers a great prebiotic ingredient that will also help to reduce added sugar, increase dietary fiber, improve mouth feel, and enhance clean label and organic labeling," said Kyle Griffiths, chief marketing officer for Intrinsic Organics.
According to forecasting firm Grandview Research, inulin holds the biggest single chunk of the prebiotic pie with about 38% of the market. The ingredient’s ease of formulation as well generally good tolerability makes it a popular choice for foods and beverages.
The company says the new storage facility will allow it to bring more farm acreage online. That expansion will continue over the next three to seven years, according to the company.
Intrinsic Organics received GRAS status on its ingredient in November 2019 via a no objection letter from the US Food and Drug Administration.