BENEO secures Thai FDA approval for exclusive prebiotic claim on its chicory root fibre
Orafti Inulin is extracted from chicory root through a gentle hot water process and is one of the few prebiotics recognised by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP).
THAILAND – BENEO, a leading global manufacturer of functional ingredients for food, feed, and pharmaceuticals, has achieved a major milestone with the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granting exclusive approval for a prebiotic claim on its chicory root fibre, Orafti Inulin.
This makes BENEO the first ingredient producer to receive such recognition in Thailand, following a rigorous scientific evaluation by the Centre for Nutrition Assessment and Health Claims of Thailand (CNACT).
The approval arrives at a time when digestive health is fast becoming a top wellness priority for Thai consumers.
According to recent research by FMCG Gurus, digestive health ranks as the second most important health concern for consumers in Thailand over the next year, with one in two people actively seeking to improve it.
Awareness of prebiotics is particularly high, with more than 80 per cent associating them with digestive health and a third of consumers already including prebiotic foods or supplements in their diets.
Chicory root fibre also holds a positive reputation, with three out of four Thai consumers perceiving it as healthy.
Against this backdrop, the FDA’s endorsement positions BENEO and its Orafti Inulin as trusted solutions that can help manufacturers meet evolving consumer expectations.
The evaluation process behind the approval underscores the strength of the scientific evidence supporting Orafti Inulin.
Conducted by the CNACT and authorised by the Thai FDA, the assessment included human intervention trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, the highest level of scientific validation available.
The recognition, therefore, carries significant weight in terms of credibility, offering food and beverage producers a robust health claim to feature on product packaging.
Orafti Inulin is extracted from chicory root through a gentle hot water process and is one of the few prebiotics recognised by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP).
Chicory root fibre is also the most studied prebiotic globally and remains the only plant-based option. As a non-digestible fibre, it supports digestive health by selectively stimulating the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Research has shown that its benefits extend beyond digestion, contributing to weight management and overall well-being.
Caroline Bustandi, Head of Regulatory Affairs Asia Pacific at BENEO, emphasised the significance of the approval, stating that it allows Thai manufacturers to develop appealing products backed by credible health claims.
She highlighted that this development makes it easier for consumers to make informed choices to support their digestive health, addressing a growing demand across Thailand and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
With this exclusive approval, BENEO strengthens its position as a trusted leader in prebiotic innovation, while offering Thai manufacturers and consumers alike the opportunity to enhance digestive health through scientifically validated solutions.
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