The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved glucosyl hesperidin as a novel food ingredient, opening the door beyond skincare for its use in nutraceutical formulations.
This modified form of hesperidin – a bioflavonoid commonly found in citrus fruits that is known for its cardiovascular, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties – is already a popular ingredient in the cosmetics industry, where it is prized for its enhanced bioavailability and broad range of applications.
Also known as alpha-glucosyl hesperidin (AGH), it has various functional properties, including its ability to relieve acute and chronic stress.
Now, glucosyl hesperidin has been approved as safe for human consumption in specific drinks and food supplements at levels of up to 364 mg per day for adults, according to the EFSA evaluation, which was published last month.
“The panel concludes that the NF glucosyl hesperidin is safe for the target population at the proposed uses and use levels,” EFSA said.
AGH is derived via an enzymatic reaction wherein glucose molecules are bonded to hesperidin, giving it significantly improved water solubility, allowing it to be more easily absorbed by the body while retaining the biological benefits of the original compound.
This enhanced form of hesperidin is also tasteless and odourless, making it more versatile for product formulations.
EFSA’s evaluation, including a 90-day toxicity study, found no concerns regarding the safety of glucosyl hesperidin, even at high doses.
The reviewers concluded that the novel ingredient has no genotoxicity risk and offers a substantial margin of safety for human consumption, setting a No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 1,000 mg/kg of body weight per day.
AGH is already gaining traction in the skincare and beauty industries, where it is positioned as a powerful anti-ageing ingredient thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-regenerating properties.
Studies have demonstrated multiple benefits of hesperidin for cutaneous functions, including wound healing, UV protection, anti-inflammation, antimicrobial properties.
Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties offer promise for acne treatment, skin hydration, and relief from conditions such as eczema, sunburn, and other irritations.
Some companies claim it can stimulate collagen and hyaluronic acid production; it is also said to boost micro-vascular circulation when applied topically, reducing dark circles and puffiness, and brightening dull complexions.
AGH can also form a moisture-locking barrier on the skin, making it particularly effective in colder environments, where it can provide long-lasting hydration.
What’s more, AGH can be a highly sustainable ingredient, as it can be produced using upcycled waste.Bottom of Form
When harvesting citrus, young developing fruit is typically removed as part of a process that aims to improve fruit quality at harvest. These young fruits and other unsellable produce – fruits that have fallen from the trees before harvest, for example – can be repurposed for AGH production, where they can be used as raw materials instead of being discarded.
This makes AGH an attractive option for companies looking to boost their sustainability credentials by reducing waste and promoting an eco-friendly supply chain.
