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Baobab fruit gets green light for entry into the United States

The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has approved PhytoTrade Africa’s GRAS notification “Generally Regarded as Safe” for the African Bao bab fruit giving it the green light for import into the United States. The move was dubbed ‘a lifeline to millions’ by PhytoTrade Africa, the organisation that made the application and represents rural producers from across southern Africa. Baobab fruit powder will be imported into the United States as a highly nutritious ingredient for food and drink products. The healthy drinks and snacks market, including smoothies and cereal bars is a key target. Cyril Lombard, who heads up Market Development at PhytoTrade Africa says “With innovative formulations, Baobab fruit could enable food and beverage formulators to develop products naturally high in fibre and vitamin C. The levels of key vitamins and minerals in Baobab, such as vitamin C and calcium, are significantly superior to those found in well-known superfruits such as blueberry, cranberry and pomegranate”.

“Although further research is required, it is clear from published papers and our own research that Baobab dried fruit pulp contains powerful antioxidants. Ranking of ORAC values shows Baobab dried fruit pulp to have double the capacity of pomegranate and cranberries, and even more than fruits such as blueberries, raspberries and blackberries” he continues. “The PhytoTrade Africa GRAS notification dossier for a depectinised extract is also progressing well.  This product will enable formulators to develop beverages and dairy products where the pectins are not desired, or a clear product is needed”.

The iconic Baobab tree – also known as the “upside-down tree” and “The Tree of Life” – is abundant in the southern African bush.  Indigenous peoples have eaten its fruit for centuries for its many nutritional properties. It contains over six times more Vitamin C than oranges and twice as much calcium as milk. It is also high in anti-oxidants, iron and potassium and was traditionally used by sailors to stave off scurvy.

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