Polydextrose - Approved as a dietary fibre in Australia and New Zealand

On May 20th, after more than a year in the process, polydextrose has been approved by the Australian and NZ Food Authorities (FSANZ) as a dietary fibre. This will mean that food manufacturers will be able to include polydextrose as dietary fibre in the Nutrition Information Panel on the product's label.

Litesse® (polydextrose), made by Danisco Sweeteners, is a specialty carbohydrate that is produced by condensation polmerisation of glucose. Litesse® is a unique and innovative poylsaccharide that consists of randomly bonded glucose molecules. It is this uniqueness that provides Litesse® with an ability to be easily used in most food applications.  With being such a versatile food ingredient, the recent approval will open up the possibilities for food technologists to develop innovative products that can also have a 'high fibre' claim.

The Litesse® molecule consists of 90% soluble dietary fibre, is completely clear and transparent in solution and has a neutral taste which facilitates use in products where traditional fibres may affect the flavour profile of products. It is also heat and pH stable.  During the previous 20 years, polydextrose has been approved as a source of dietary fibre in many countries. As well as having fibre properties, polydextrose is also designated as having prebiotic properties. Food manufacturers could therefore develop 'leading edge' products that are and beneficial to digestive health in the areas of confectionery, bakery and beverages, but and have the benefits of fibre enhancement.

In addition to its intestinal health promoting properties, Litesse® also benefits from having a very low glycaemic index (GI) value (GI=4). Further, as it is classified as a non-available carbohydrate, Litesse can be used in 'low carb' and low GI products as well as products that may have a reduced sugar or fat content. Litesse® is also extremely low in its energy value with a kJ value of 5kJ/gram. Litesse® is also used in products that are completely sugar free without affecting the organoleptic properties of the food. As Litesse® is non-sweet it can be used in both savoury and sweet products.

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