National Starch Highlights Resistant Starch Benefits

National Starch Highlights Resistant Starch Benefits

BERKELEY, Calif.Fifteen studies published between 2005 and 2006suggest natural resistant starch produces health benefits, according to NationalStarch Food Innovation (www.foodinnovation.com). Among the advantages producedby consumption of starch, primarily as amylase-rich corn starch, are insulinsensitivity, fat burning and improved digestive health, the company said.

Every day we hear reports about the epidemic proportions of obesity anddiabetes, said Rhonda Witwer, business development manager of nutrition. Atthe same time, an aging and increasingly aware population is taking up issueslike glycemic management and energy management more than ever before. Naturalresistant starch is hot in product development right now precisely because itaddresses these pressing health concerns while maintaining the great taste offoods an unusual combination.

In other company news, National Starch Food Innovation and Roquette Freres(www.nutriose.com) entered into a distribution agreement appointing NationalStarch as the exclusive distributor of Roquettes Nutriose® soluble fiberproduct line in food and beverage segments in the United States and Mexico.Nutriose, a water-soluble fiber ingredient, complements National Starchsinsoluble Hi-maize® resistant starch, according to National Starch; further,Nutriose fits with National Starch Food Innovations focus on nutritionalingredients for digestive health and energy management.

We are very excited about securing the exclusive rights to thepatentprotected Nutriose product line, said Mike Klacik, senior director,nutrition, National Starch Food Innovation. Nutriose adds to our NutritionalIngredient portfolio and will allow us to better serve some of thefastestgrowing segments of better-for-you foods and beverages.