An ex vivo study has demonstrated that BeniCaros®, an upcycled soluble carrot fiber from NutriLeads BV, has the right level of structural complexity to produce consistent, significant and beneficial effects on the gut microbiota despite differences in individual microbiota composition. This unique precision prebiotic robustly stimulated growth of common beneficial gut bacteria, significantly increased metabolite production and ultimately created a more consistent gut microbiota composition among healthy subjects. The results were recently published in the peer-reviewed journal, Nutrients.

“It is remarkable that a small serving of only 300 milligrams of BeniCaros can display such consistent prebiotic effects despite the fact that composition of gut microbiota is unique to every individual,” said Annick Mercenier, Ph.D., NutriLeads co-founder and Senior Director R&D. “Variability in the gut microbial communities in individuals renders it challenging to demonstrate efficacy of functional ingredients. The high consistency effect of BeniCaros on microbial composition and metabolite production could support more predictable health effects.”

Unprecedented Study Protocol

This new study compared the prebiotic effects of three dietary fibers of various specificity (i.e., structural complexity) on the intestinal microbiota of healthy adults. Fecal samples of each subject were incubated for 48 hours with 0.3 grams and 1.5 grams doses of BeniCaros, a carrot-derived rhamnogalacturonan I or cRG-I (medium-high specificity), 1.5 grams of inulin (low specificity) and 1.5 grams of xanthan (high specificity). High-throughput ex vivo SIFR® technology from Cryptobiotix SA, a validated gut digestion and fermentation simulator that generates predictive insights for clinical findings, was used to measure changes in gut microbiota composition and function. “This innovative technology enabled analysis of 24 individuals, an unprecedented number of subjects compared with the commonly used in vitro gut models,” said Dr. Mercenier.

Key Findings: BeniCaros has Precision Prebiotic Activity

The results illustrated how the specificity or complexity of dietary fiber structures determine which bacterial communities can ferment and benefit from a dietary intervention. Precision targeting of specific beneficial bacteria common in the core human microbiome could help ensure consistent prebiotic health benefits across diverse populations.

• cRG-I selectively stimulated taxa or species of bacteria that were consistently present among human adults, resulting in lower microbiota composition differences between subjects. The homogenizing effect of cRG-I on the gut microbiota was dose-dependent. In contrast, both inulin and xanthan increased interpersonal differences.

BeniCaros significantly increased a broad spectrum of 30 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) belonging to Bifidobacteriaceae (2), Bacteroidaceae (4), Acidaminococcaceae (1), unclassified Clostridiales (1), Lachnospiraceae (18), Ruminococcaceae (3), and Veillonellaceae (1), including OTUs of health-related species such as Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium adolescentis, Anaerobutyricum hallii and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii.

“The goldilocks principle applies to BeniCaros,” said Ruud Albers, Ph.D., NutriLeads cofounder and Chief Scientific Officer. “Its structure is not so simple that it can be fermented by multiple bacterial strains in the gut, nor is it so complex that it can only be used by few microbial communities. RG-I’s specificity is just right.”

• All three test compounds significantly increased production of short chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate and butyrate) that play an important role in host-microbiome “cross talk” and that modulate many human bodily functions, including the immune system. However, BeniCaros led to higher and more inter-individual consistent levels of SCFA than the other fibers.

Importantly, BeniCaros also demonstrated notably lower gas production than the two other studied fibers.  A limitation of prebiotics when large daily serving sizes (10-20 grams) are recommended is that they may cause bloating, gas and gut discomfort in sensitive people.

“Our research clearly demonstrates the game-changing potential of BeniCaros,” said Joana Carneiro, Ph.D., NutriLeads Chief Executive Officer . “Its superior ability to consistently and beneficially modulate the gut microbiota enables product differentiation and BeniCaros’ very small serving size opens the door to innovation in functional foods, beverages and supplements.”

The current research paper is titled, Carrot RG-I Reduces Interindividual Differences between 24 Adults through Consistent Effects on Gut Microbiota Composition and Function Ex Vivo.

NutriLeads’ prebiotic carrot fiber helps power convenient, science-based solution for travelers

Well Traveled Health Inc. has launched Immune Activator dietary supplement with BeniCaros® from NutriLeads BV to help consumers stay well amid the stress and toll that travel takes on diet, sleep, hydration, personal routines and the immune system.

“As a management consultant constantly on the road, I never felt my best. I decided to make a clean and clinically validated immune support supplement that could help the modern traveler stay well on the road,” said Patrick Firlik, Well Traveled Founder and Chief Executive Officer. “With the help of nutrition experts, we created a ‘best-of-the-best’ solution that blends five complementary, science-based immune health ingredients in a great-tasting drink mix.”

Well Traveled Immune Activator strengthens the body’s natural defenses and accelerates immune responses. Its Fresh Lemon-flavored packets are powered by:

• BeniCaros®, the award-winning, clinically proven immune-support ingredient from upcycled carrot pomace. This soluble carrot fiber with prebiotic properties trains the immune system to be faster, smarter and stronger. BeniCaros prepares immune cells for accelerated responses and selectively increases beneficial gut microorganisms and their metabolites that support immune health.

• IMMUSE™ LC-plasma, a postbiotic that proactively supports the immune system through a novel method of activation of pDC (plasmacytoid dendritic cells) that in turn modulates pivotal immune cells, including NK, Killer-T, Helper-T, and B cells. IMMUSE, a product of Kyowa Hakko, is backed by 30 published studies, including 15 human clinical trials.

• Vitamins C (from acerola fruit) and D3 (from algae), which research demonstrates supports immune cell health and immune system regulation.

• Zinc (from guava leaf) that is essential for the healthy development and function of immune cells.

“We believe the combination of strong science and branded ingredients creates a unique product that delivers real immune health benefits and stands out in a crowded marketplace,” said Firlik.

Joana Carneiro, Ph.D., NutriLeads Chief Executive Officer, commented: “Consumers today are looking for multifunctional supplements to help them proactively stay healthy. BeniCaros’ microbiota-immune axis dual mechanism of action and small serving size enable our customers to formulate products that help consumers achieve their health goals.”

Well Traveled Immune Activatorwith BeniCaros® can be purchased on the Well Traveled website at www.gowelltraveled.com.

These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

April 11, 2023 – NutriLeads BV announced today that it has signed an exclusive agreement with Quadra Ingredients, a leading food and supplement ingredient distributor, to represent BeniCaros® in the U.S. and Canada.

BeniCaros® is NutriLeads’ award-winning, clinically proven immune-strengthening ingredient for functional foods, beverages and supplements. BeniCaros is an upcycled, soluble carrot fiber with prebiotic properties that trains the immune system to be faster, smarter and stronger. Peer-reviewed research demonstrates that BeniCaros prepares immune cells for accelerated responses and selectively increases beneficial gut microorganisms and their metabolites that support immune health.

“Quadra’s expertise in specialty ingredients, strong technical application support, and deep industry knowledge will help us grow our presence and sales in the U.S. and Canadian markets,” explained Steve Meredith, Sales Manager North America at NutriLeads.

“We are thrilled to represent NutriLeads and BeniCaros,” said Christine Infilise, Vice-President, Quadra Ingredients. “Our customers want natural ingredients that are earth friendly and backed by strong science. BeniCaros checks all these boxes and has an ideal formulation profile for customers that want to innovate in the immune health space.”

February 14, 2023 – NutriLeads, which develops and markets plant-derived, science-based functional ingredients to strengthen human health, announced today the appointment of Alexander Belderok to the company’s Supervisory Board.

Belderok is a Senior Partner at Roland Berger, a global management consulting firm based in Munich. He focuses on strengthening the competitive position of companies in agribusiness, food ingredients, biotech and pharma and specialty chemicals companies. His expertise spans all aspects of business structure and operations, strategy development and business model innovation. Belderok studied Mechanical Engineering and Business Administration at the University of Twente, Business-to-Business Marketing at IMD and in the Advanced Management Program at Harvard. Next to that he participated in the European Comenius Course.

“Alexander’s experience, expertise and insights will be invaluable to NutriLeads as we expand into new markets and continue to develop our RG-I platform technology for functional food, beverage and supplement ingredients and applications,” said Joana Carniero, Ph.D., NutriLeads Chief Executive Officer.

BeniCaros® is NutriLeads’ award-winning, clinically proven immune-support ingredient. This soluble prebiotic carrot fiber trains the immune system to be faster, smarter and stronger. BeniCaros prepares immune cells for accelerated responses and selectively increases beneficial gut microorganisms and their metabolites that support immune health.

December 14, 2022 – NutriLeads BV announced today that it has expanded global distribution of BeniCaros®, the company’s clinically proven immune-support ingredient for foods, beverages and supplements, through an agreement with Maxcare Inc. in Taiwan.

BeniCaros is a natural, soluble prebiotic carrot fiber that accelerates healthy immune responses through a unique dual mechanism of action. BeniCaros trains the immune system by preparing innate immune cells to respond faster and selectively increasing beneficial gut microorganisms and their metabolites that support immune health. Clinical research shows that healthy individuals taking BeniCaros felt better faster and reported significant reductions in the severity and duration of common cold symptoms following a controlled challenge.

Based in Taipei, Maxcare specializes in clinically supported, science-based nutraceuticals, fruit and botanical extracts with numerous product applications. Maxcare has broad expertise and resources for product development, marketing and consumer education, and logistic services.

“Maxcare is an excellent partner for creating commercialization opportunities for BeniCaros in Taiwan,” said Joana Carneiro, Ph.D., NutriLeads Chief Executive Officer.  “As Taiwan’s leading distributor of specialty ingredients, Maxcare has extensive relationships with leading food, beverage and supplement manufacturers. It also has unmatched experience in all aspects of product development and marketing.”

Steve Wu, general manager at MAXCARE Inc., said: “After the COVID-19 pandemic, people are more focused on their own health, especially their immune health. BeniCaros is patented and provides clinically proven immune support. It is our pleasure to be working with the NutriLeads team and we look forward to opportunities for BeniCaros to improve people’s health and overall wellness.”

BeniCaros is an eco-friendly natural ingredient that is off-white in color, water soluble, odorless, tasteless and pH and heat stable. It is also Kosher, Halal, non-GMO, vegan and vegetarian and available in an organic version. A recommended daily serving of BeniCaros is only 300 mgs.

November 28, 2022 – NutriLeads BV today announced an agreement with Kilyos Nutrition to distribute award-winning BeniCaros®, a functional ingredient clinically proven to accelerate healthy immune responses, in Brazil.  The companies will seek approval from the Brazilian Healthy Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) to use this soluble prebiotic carrot fiber for use in foods, beverages and supplements.

BeniCaros trains the immune system to respond faster through a dual mechanism of action that prepares innate immune cells for a heightened state of readiness and selectively increases beneficial gut microorganisms and their metabolites that support immune responses. Clinical research shows consumers taking BeniCaros felt better faster and reported significant reductions in the severity and duration of symptoms following a controlled challenge with a mild common cold virus.

“We are pleased to partner with Kilyos Nutrition to make our remarkable immune-support ingredient BeniCaros available in the largest market in South America,” said Joana Carneiro, Ph.D., NutriLeads Chief Executive Officer.

Brazil is one of the countries with the highest potential for consumption of products that contribute to personal health, wellness, and an improved immunity. With more than 20 years of human nutritional expertise, Kilyos Nutrition will open the door to BeniCaros in Brazil, providing an excellent quality and highly differentiated ingredient to the Brazilian market.

“We would like to thank our partner NutriLeads for the opportunity to include BeniCaros in the Kilyos portfolio,” said Dr. João José Name, Kilyos Nutrition Medical Director. “BeniCaros is an ingredient of proven effectiveness in promoting health and immunity for individuals. Being able to offer such a promising ingredient to the Brazilian population makes us very excited. We will certainly see great projects from this partnership.”

BeniCaros, scientifically known as RG-I (Rhamnogalacturonan-I), is a soluble prebiotic fiber upcycled from carrot pomace.  A clinical study utilizing a controlled challenge with a common cold virus found that just 300 mgs. of BeniCaros daily accelerated protective immune responsiveness, reduced airway symptom severity (20-33%) and duration (25-43%) and minimized the impact on quality of life.

Eco-friendly BeniCaros is off-white in color, water soluble, odorless, tasteless and pH and heat stable. It is also Kosher, Halal, non-GMO, vegan and vegetarian and available in an organic version.

November 15, 2022 – An organic version of BeniCaros®, the award-winning immune health ingredient for foods, beverages and supplements, is now available upon request, NutriLeads BV announced today.

BeniCaros is a soluble prebiotic carrot fiber known as RG-I (Rhamnogalacturonan-I) that trains the immune system to respond faster.  Clinical research shows BeniCaros’ dual mechanism of action accelerated and strengthened healthy cellular and gut-initiated immune responses to significantly reduce the severity and duration of common cold symptoms. BeniCaros is sourced from upcycled carrot pomace.

“BeniCaros is earth friendly, people friendly and clean label,” said Joana Carneiro, NutriLeads’ Chief Executive Officer. “Organic certification expands BeniCaros’ versatility as an immune-support solution for a broad range of products in the nearly $200 billion global organic food and beverage market.”

Certification of BeniCaros Organic assures manufacturers and formulators that this product complies with strict standards covering every aspect of production. This includes seeds, soil conditions, weed and pest management, storage and recordkeeping. BeniCaros has a completely traceable supply chain and is manufactured using a proprietary, all-natural extraction and purification process that utilizes only water.

BeniCaros Organic was certified by SKAL, the national organization in the Netherlands that ensures compliance with European Union organic regulations. Under an equivalency agreement, products certified to EU or USDA organic standards may sold, labeled and represented as organic within the European Union and the United States.

BeniCaros is off-white in color, water soluble, odorless, tasteless and pH and heat stable. It is also Kosher, Halal, non-GMO, vegan and vegetarian and now available in an organic version.

July 13, 2022 – BeniCaros®, a natural immune health ingredient for foods, beverages and supplements from NutriLeads BV, received top honors in two categories at the prestigious NutraIngredients-USA Awards today.

BeniCaros won the 2022 NutraIngredients-USA Award in the Nutrition Research Project category that recognizes “the best game changing nutrition research projects that push the boundaries of nutritional science.” The innovative, science-based ingredient is also an active ingredient in Stem & Root Daily Immunity from Bayer, which was named “Product of the Year” in the immune support category.

BeniCaros is a patented bioactive polysaccharide (fiber) known as cRG-I (rhamnogalacturonan-I) derived from upcycled carrot pomace. It trains the immune system to be fit year-round through a unique dual mode of action that both prepares innate immune cells and stimulates beneficial gut microorganisms that support immune responses. A recently published peer-reviewed clinical trial demonstrated that just 300mgs daily of BeniCaros accelerated protective immune responses and significantly reduced the severity and duration of symptoms after a controlled challenge with a common cold virus.

Stem & Root Daily Immunity combines BeniCaros and zinc in a novel formula that strengthens the immune system. In addition to solid science, BeniCaros enables Daily Immunity to offer consumers a sustainability value proposition as an upcycled and renewable ingredient.

“We are gratified to receive these prestigious honors for BeniCaros,” said Erik Dam, Chief Executive Officer of NutriLeads. “Our team, along with our research partners at numerous medical and scientific institutions, have worked diligently over the past decade to discover and develop this exciting new ingredient. We thank our partners at Bayer for making BeniCaros available to consumers who want to strengthen their immune and overall health.”

BeniCaros is supported by strong clinical research. It improves responsiveness of innate immune cells and increases beneficial microorganisms and production of their metabolites in the gut to further strengthen immune health. “The combination of direct effects on innate immunity and prebiotic effects provides a powerful dual mechanism of action that is unique among immune health ingredients,” said Dr. Ruud Albers, NutriLeads co-founder and Chief Science Officer.

Since its commercial launch last year, BeniCaros has earned several coveted industry honors. It received a 2021 Health Innovation Award from Food Ingredients Europe. Earlier this year BeniCaros was a finalist for a NutraIngredients Europe award in the Nutrition Research Project category.