Aker BioMarine, the global biotech innovator and world-leading supplier of krill, announces a new milestone for its novel, sustainably produced krill protein hydrolysate product INVI™ - which has now been determined Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).

The self-affirmed GRAS status means that INVI Protein is deemed safe for use in foods and beverages in the U.S. market. To reach this conclusion, Aker BioMarine convened a panel of independent experts to evaluate INVI as a nutritional ingredient for human consumption.

Following an in-depth research and evaluation process, the expert panel unanimously concluded that the intended uses of INVI Protein met all appropriate food-grade guidelines, in line with requirements for GRAS status. This allows Aker BioMarine to begin sales and marketing of INVI in the U.S. as a source of protein for food and beverage category including nutritional beverages, protein beverages, weight control drinks, protein powders, energy bars, nutrition bars and protein bars.

“The U.S. nutrition, food and beverage market is an important one for INVI, as there’s great opportunity for an alternative protein source for food and beverages. The self-affirmed GRAS status was a critical milestone for Aker BioMarine, and we are thrilled with the expert panel’s unanimous conclusion that our krill-based product is safe and ready to provide a new source of protein to the market,” says Lalen Dogan, VP Protein Human Nutrition, Aker BioMarine.

Antarctic krill used as the raw material for the INVI product is sustainably harvested in area 48 of the South Ocean, exclusively by factory vessels owned and operated by Aker BioMarine. This ingredient will provide an alternative to plant- and animal-based proteins, such as whey protein casein and pea protein currently used for the same purpose.

All raw materials used in the production process are considered safe and suitable for use in food production, as reflected in the GRAS statement. INVI will be manufactured on a commercial scale in accordance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and with a Hazards Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) plan in place.

INVI™ is Aker BioMarine's new protein ingredient for food and beverages. It is a hydrolyzed krill protein that is highly soluble and dispersible. It is designed for use in a wide range of innovative protein applications that promote healthier eating while also keeping the environment and life on earth safe. Antarctic krill protein provides a complete, well balanced amino-acid profile and is rich in calcium and magnesium, important to support and maintain vital functions in the body.

Read more: www.inviprotein.com