Ingredion has received European Commission approval for Benicaros SF Pure P, a carrot-derived fibre enriched with rhamnogalacturonan-I. The authorisation allows the ingredient to be marketed commercially throughout the European Union from 2 July 2026.
European approval for an upcycled fibre
The decision follows a favourable safety opinion from the European Food Safety Authority. Under the approval, Ingredion can use the patented carrot fibre in selected food products, drinks and food supplements. Produced by upcycling carrot pomace, Benicaros SF Pure P is plant-based and suitable for kosher, halal and gluten-free formulations.
Sebastian Smith, director of fibre fortification and healthful solutions at Ingredion, described the regulatory decision as an important development for the fibre sector. “This approval represents a significant milestone, unlocking the European market for a highly differentiated carrot fibre that addresses the limitations of traditional fibre ingredients,” Smith said. “With Benicaros, we’re enabling our customers to deliver unique fibre benefits without compromising taste, texture, or added benefits to the label.”
Low-dose performance for product developers
Benicaros SF Pure P has been developed to deliver functionality at a daily intake of only 300 milligrams. It dissolves in water and maintains stability across different pH conditions and processing temperatures. In addition, the ingredient is designed to have minimal effect on the flavour, aroma and texture of finished products.
This combination may support applications in functional foods, beverages and dietary supplements, where manufacturers increasingly seek fibre fortification without compromising sensory quality. As food manufacturing trends continue to prioritise cleaner formulations and improved nutritional profiles, ingredients that minimise processing and formulation challenges are gaining attention.
Ingredion says the fibre can encourage the growth of beneficial gut microorganisms and support the production of short-chain fatty acids. Human research referenced by the company indicates potential effects on the gut microbiome and immune activity. The reported increases in beneficial bacteria and related metabolites may interact with innate immune cells, supporting wider immune health outcomes.
Expansion following the Benicaros acquisition
The EU authorisation comes shortly after Ingredion finalised its acquisition of Benicaros in June 2026. The company is presenting the ingredient as part of its broader investment in nutrition solutions supported by scientific research. Approval in the EU also provides access to one of the largest markets for functional food and beverage products.
For European formulators monitoring food and beverage industry trends, the ingredient offers a differentiated fibre option with a low recommended dose and limited sensory impact. Its arrival also aligns with developments in food and drink consumer trends, food and drink sustainability and food and drink innovation, particularly the demand for plant-based and upcycled ingredients.
Commercial momentum will depend on how quickly manufacturers incorporate Benicaros into new products and whether the ingredient can move beyond specialist applications. Its progress will also be shaped by food and drink regulations, food and drink packaging requirements, food processing technology, food distribution trends and the way brands communicate gut health benefits through food and drink marketing.