Functional In More Ways Than One

Some nutrients have positive functional roles both technologically and nutritionally in certain applications. Carotenoids, for example, are a class of natural pigments that are responsible for the yellow/orange/red colors of many fruits and flowers. They are also normal constituents of human blood and tissues. Up to 18 carotenoids have been detected and quantified in plasma extras, including beta-carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin and lycopene.

According to Siemensma of Quest International, "A recent epidemiological study shows that foods based on processed tomatoes [lycopene rich] may be especially beneficial regarding prostate cancer risk in elderly men. Furthermore, a high dietary intake in the elderly of specific green leafy vegetables like spinach and collard greens [lutein/zeaxanthin rich] was shown to be associated with a decreased risk on age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This suggests a protective role for lutein/zeaxanthin in AMD."

Carotenoids, therefore, combine coloring and nutritional functions in a unique manner. They are functional in two senses of the word: they perform a technical function and are thought to have positive health benefits. This is also the case for oligofructose and inulin, available from Orafti under the trade names Raftilose and Raftiline. Raftilose contains oligofructose, which consists of a mixture of oligosaccharides prepared by partial hydrolysis of inulin molecules. Raftiline is inulin powder.

Both substances contribute fewer calories than sugar or starch and also show beneficial dietary fiber effects such as relief of constipation. "Animal, and to some extent, human volunteer studies in the area of lipid metabolism have shown that the consumption of inulin or oligofructose results in a reduction of the total triglycerides and an improvement of the HDL (high-density lipoproteins)/LDL (low-density lipoproteins) ratio," said Paul Coussement, director of sales and marketing at Orafti.

In addition, these substances also have been found to have a beneficial effect on gut flora. "Human volunteer studies have shown the ability of oligofructose and inulin to stimulate bifidobacteria and to inhibit unwanted bacteria in the human colon, although the mechanisms for this bifidogenic effect are still the subject of research," Coussement said.

Some of the latest food products are Aldi's Biotic Plus Oligofructose, available in Germany and the Netherlands; Bio Aloe Vera from Danone, which contains Raftilose and aloe vera (more commonly used in beauty products) in Belgium; and a new trend is emerging in breakfast food with Goede Morgen, an enriched drinking yogurt that contains Raftilose, in the Netherlands. "More launches of breakfast cereals with the bifidogenic message and several new upgraded milks are also due to be launched this year," Coussement said.

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