January 7/Somerville, N.J./Press Release -- In response to a petition filed by Nexira, the FDA is amending the food additive regulations to provide for the expanded safe use of acacia (gum arabic) in foods. The rule became effective December 6. The announcement detailed that written regulations now allow for higher maximum usage levels of acacia gum permitted in products, and they also include distinctions allowing for even greater use of acacia gum.

Nexira, a global leader in natural ingredients and botanical extracts sustainably sourced from nature for the food and health industries, petitioned the FDA in December 2011, recognizing the benefits the amended regulations could have to consumers as well as a number of food and beverage categories.

From beverages and some soups, to breakfast cereals, baked goods and more, the FDA is increasing the allowable amount of acacia gum exponentially. As an example of an increase in permitted levels thanks to this new ruling, the maximum level of acacia gum in grain-based bars, such as breakfast bars, granola bars and rice cereal bars is now 35%.

Additionally, the FDA confirms that acacia gum supplies dietary fiber, thus allowing for even higher fiber promotion on labels.