2/16/2011 --- Algatechnologies, Israel, specializing in microalgae cultivation and a leading manufacturer of natural astaxanthin has announced that its AstaPure brand has obtained GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status from the FDA for use in food and beverages applications.

"Our AstaPure brand has been successfully applied for several years as an active ingredient in dietary supplements, foods and beverages in Japan,” says Efrat Kat, Director, Marketing & Sales at Algatechnologies. ”Achieving GRAS status and meeting the highest regulatory requirements in the U.S. is a major accomplishment, designed to support our customers in their food and beverage innovations utilizing the recognized health benefits of astaxanthin.”

Algatechnologies is a leading manufacturer of natural astaxanthin and the only supplier using entirely closed cultivation systems, totally exposed to the natural sun-light. Moreover, 100% of Algatechnologies’ products are manufactured using super-critical CO2 technology, obtaining 10%   astaxanthin in oleoresin form, with no solvent extractions.

"During recent years we invested millions of dollars to standardize our manufacturing processes, increase yields and positioning Algatechnologies to guarantee increasing customer demands,” reports Hagay Tzur, Algatechnologies’s CEO. “GRAS status will strengthen the AstaPure brand.” In 2011, the company will expand production capacity by an additional 50 per cent, making Algatechnologies a global leader of natural astaxanthin. Algatechnologies holds ISO 9001/2000, HACCP accreditations; is GMP and Kosher certified.

Astaxanthin is a highly potent antioxidant, recognized as approximately 500 times more effective than vitamin E and much more powerful than other carotenoids such as lutein, lycopene and beta carotene. Astaxanthin supports a number of health conditions. AstaPure is used mainly in sports nutrition, and products developed specifically for cardiovascular and skin health.

Food categories for which astaxanthin is now allowed include: baked goods, beverages, cereals, chewing gum, coffee, tea, dairy, frozen dairy desserts and mixes, hard candy, milk products, processed fruits and fruit juices, processed vegetables and vegetable juices, and soft candy.