DSM claims to have launched the first and the only digestive enzyme demonstrated to effectively break down residual gluten in the stomach to the US dietary supplement market. Tolerase G – or alanyl aminopeptidase (AN-PEP) –is ideal for the rising number of gluten sensitive consumers following a gluten-free diet who want help digesting hidden or residual gluten that may be found in a broad range of foods.
The results of a new in-vitro study published in the peer-reviewed journal, PlosONE, show that the AN-PEP digestive enzyme degrades gluten molecules in the stomach more effectively than other commercially available supplements.
Gluten is present naturally in certain grains, and may often be found in processed foods. It is difficult for consumers looking for gluten free diet because gluten free products may not always be at hand during social events or traveling. Gluten sensitive consumers following a gluten-free diet could benefit from using Tolerase G. This product, however, is not intended for individuals with celiac disease or who are gluten intolerant. For individuals with gluten intolerance, a lifelong gluten free diet is the only available treatment.
The first paper on the gluten-degrading effect of the AN-PEP enzyme was published earlier this year in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study concluded that AN-PEP enhanced gluten digestion of healthy volunteers within a one hour period, irrespective of the caloric content of the meal. “A growing number of people now opt to follow a gluten-free diet, but until recently it was difficult for dietary supplement manufacturers to match consumer demand as the available digestive enzymes were not effective in degrading gluten in the stomach,” comments Thierry Garrier, Marketing Director at DSM. “Tolerase G is the result of significant research, carried out over a number of years, to show the efficacy and safety of the enzyme. The new science gives manufacturers the evidence they need to educate consumers on the benefits offered by this unique ingredient.”
Aparna Parikh at DSM Nutritional Products confirmed that the most relevant application for Tolerase G is supplements and at this point the company is not looking to put this product in F&B products. “At this point we only have regulatory approval for the US but additional filings for regulatory approvals are possible and/or underway,” she noted.
