ARTINIA Self-Affirmed GRAS

ST. LOUISARTINIA, a chitin-glucan fiber ingredient from Stratum Nutrition received self-affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status. An independent panel of experts reached a unanimous decision supporting the use of ARTINIA in a wide range of food and beverage products after a comprehensive review of the safety, toxicology and proposed usage.

GRAS designation will allow ARTINIA to expand further into the food and beverage industry including: beverage and beverage bases such as energy and sports drinks, fruit juices and meal replacement drinks; milk products such as smoothies, yogurt and yogurt drinks; and cereal and energy bars, breakfast cereals, pastas and other baked goods. The Allowable Daily Intake (ADI) for ARTINIA is up to 70mg/kg per day for food use and intake.

"Achieving GRAS approval is a major milestone and a testament to the rigorous and extensive scientific and technical information associated with ARTINIA," commented Joseph L. Evans, Ph.D., manager, pharmacology, Stratum Nutrition.

ARTINIA is a high-purity, natural, chitin-glucan fiber featuring the benefits of both soluble and insoluble fibers. According to Stratum , a 12-week animal and 30-day human pilot study have been completed, and each study demonstrated ARTINIA provides substantial benefits for arterial and overall heart health, including a reduction in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. In addition to GRAS designation, ARTINIA as chitin-glucan has received a positive opinion by the EU Commission as a novel food.

Sample of ARTINIA in bars, gummies and smoothies will be available at the Stratum Nutrition booth #625 during SupplyExpo in Anaheim, CA, March 11 to March 13, 2011.

Stratum Nutrition, a Novus International Business, provides functional and specialty ingredients for manufacturers and marketers of foods, beverages and dietary supplements. Stratum offers a portfolio of branded, value-added ingredients that are safe and reliable. These ingredients are based on consumer need, supported by science and the backing of a trusted multinational company.