Health Canada OKs Monk Fruit Extract

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.Health Canada has completed a detailed evaluation and has approved use of monk fruit extract, also known as luo han guo extract, as a sweetener at a maximum level of use of 0.8% in table-top sweeteners.

The assessment also concluded available scientific data supported the safety and efficacy of monk fruit extract when used under the proposed guidelines, and therefore, monk fruit extract will be added to the List of Permitted Sweeteners. Monk fruit extracts are becoming increasingly popular as a superior tasting, natural, zero-calorie, high-intensity sweetener.

"We are pleased that Health Canada has allowed use of monk fruit as a natural sweetener," said Chris Tower, president of Layn USA, Inc. "It serves to further validate the regulatory work Layn has carried out over a 10-year period in substantiating the safety and effectiveness of monk fruit extracts, as evidenced in Layns pivotal GRAS affirmation."

Layn's GRAS affirmation was accepted in 2011 under the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) GRAS Notice Inventory, GRN No. 359. Layns dossier is referenced in Health Canada's Consultation Document.