SDA-Rich Soybean Oil

ST. LOUISSolae announced companies are proceeding with product formulation with its new soybean oil, Soymega, a rich source of stearidonic acid (SDA). The result of a collaboration between Solae and Monsanto Co., Soymega was designed to help companies deliver omega-3s via everyday foods, while easing the formulation process. During a press conference at the IFT Food Expo, Torkel Rhenman, CEO, Solae, said Soymega has the potential to revolutionize the use of omega-3s in food development. The company is exhibiting at IFT, Booth #4229.

Developed using biotechnology and food science, the oil contains 20 percent SDA in mixed triglyceride form; SDA converts to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) within the body, delivering heart health effects. On the formulation side, Soymega maintains flavor over expected product shelf life, and can be used in a variety of foods. Among the product application examples are bakery products, soups, beverages, snack bars, dressings, yogurts, processed meats, vegetarian meat analogs, margarines and shortenings. Solae has also developed product concepts using industrial margarines and shortenings in baked goods. Formulators can examine the lipid systems used in their products to determine how to substitute Soymega to meet formulation and health needs.

The company also promoted the sustainability of its new ingredient, which will also allow more consumers to meet their omega-3 needs without reliance on existing marine and plant sources. In a release, Eileen Kennedy, Ph.D., dean of the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, said: The world can use a source of omega-3s thats not solely dependent on marine sources. The challenge is finding a sustainable plant-based source that provides the good taste and nutritional benefits needed to maintain healthy hearts. SDA soybean oil is uniquely providing these benefits to the food industry.

Commercialization of Soymega is expected in the United States in 2012, pending completion of certain regulatory requirements. Soymega has been self-affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe), and notification filed with FDA, with no questions from the agency.