ConsumerLab Says Baobab Generally Safe

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.The tangy taste of Baobab fruit pulp as well as its high fiber content and antioxidant properties may make it an attractive food ingredient or supplement, but specific health benefits have not been established, and too much can cause  a potential laxative effect, according to a recent report by ConsumerLab.com.

Dried baobab fruit pulp is approved for use as a food additive in Europe, and is considered GRAS (generally recognized as safe) in the United States. It is often used for its high-fiber content, according to ConusmerLab, but it also has a high ORAC score, meaning it demonstrates significant antioxidant activity. However, the firm noted a high ORAC score doesnt necessarily mean it has a high antioxidant activity in the body.

ConsumerLab noted ingredient supplier BI Nutraceuticals said the powder it sells is sterilized using super-heated, dry steam to ensure the material is free of any potential pathogens, while preserving all of the healthful properties of the fruit powder. Baobab Foods, which sells food bars and a fruit powder made from baobab dried fruit powder, said the fruit pulp is separated from the seeds and sieved before packing without pasteurizing, heat extracting, freeze drying or concentrating.

ConsumerLab also discusses the history of Baobab (Adansonia digitata), its traditional uses and its nutrient makeup.