Oobli's Third FDA Approval Marks a Milestone for Sweet Protein Innovation
Oobli, renowned for its pioneering sweet protein technology, recently announced a major breakthrough in food science. The company has obtained a "no questions" letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its novel sweet protein known as brazzein-54. This protein, derived from the naturally occurring oubli fruit, is now recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in food and beverage products. This achievement marks the third protein in Oobli's portfolio to receive such approval, joining brazzein-53 and monellin, further solidifying Oobli's role in the growing market of healthy sugar alternatives.
With an ongoing mission to transform how consumers think about sweetness, Oobli is focused on providing plant-based alternatives that replace conventional cane sugar and other artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, and stevia. Jason Ryder, the founder and CTO of Oobli, who is also an Adjunct Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, exclaims, "Oobli is changing the future of sweetness through the use of sweet proteins as a replacement for traditional sugar."
What sets the oubli fruit sweet protein apart is its ability to provide a sugar-like sweetness without adversely affecting blood sugar levels, insulin response, or the gut microbiome. Sweet proteins such as brazzein-54 represent a revolutionary innovation in the food industry, offering an excellent alternative for those looking to reduce sugar consumption. This is especially relevant considering the worldwide focus on health and the rising rates of sugar-related health issues.
Oobli’s brand name bears significance as it draws its roots directly from the West African communities that originally described the oubli fruit as “so sweet it makes children forget their mother’s milk.” Ali Wing, the CEO of Oobli, notes that the FDA approval underscores the sweet protein's enormous potential to change our dependence on traditional sugar and artificial sweeteners.
The applications for brazzein-54 are vast. Oobli indicates that this sweet protein can substitute 70% or more of sugar across diverse food categories, including sodas, baked goods, and teas. The versatility presents countless opportunities for manufacturers to create healthier, sugar-reduced options and align with the growing consumer demand for guilt-free indulgences.
In line with this innovation, Oobli has started rolling out a range of chocolates that are sweetened with its proprietary sweet proteins. The initial offerings include dark and milk chocolate, showcasing the culinary capabilities of these proteins. Furthermore, partnerships with leading industry players like Ingredion, known for its expertise in ingredient solutions, and Grupo Bimbo, the world's largest baked goods company, position Oobli to expand its market reach significantly.
The importance of Oobli's advancements goes beyond mere consumer satisfaction; it represents a shift toward more sustainable and health-conscious food choices. As Oobli forges ahead with its revolutionary sweet proteins, the company encourages food and beverage makers to explore their options and innovate for the betterment of public health.
In conclusion, Oobli is not just about sweetening the market; it’s about redefining the way we understand sugar substitutes, embracing health and wellness without compromising on taste or enjoyment. For those interested in learning more about Oobli's portfolio of sweet proteins and their applications, visit oobli.com.