A Fiber for Every Formula
SunOpta Ingredients Group produces fibers for every food application. Our exceptionally broad offering of high quality fibers comes with more than just a solid reputation. It comes with the expertise needed to incorporate them into all kinds of foods and beverages.
Whether you want to enhance texture, add moisture, extend shelf life, improve strength and flexibility, or create delicious new ways to answer the call for more fiber, we make sure your product looks, tastes and performs just the way you want it to.
Consumers Are Looking For Fiber When Choosing Foods and Beverages
Consumers are looking for health and wellness benefits in the foods they buy for themselves and their families. In a 2009 survey, conducted by the International Food Information Council, adults ranked fiber as the top potentially beneficial component they want in food and beverages.
Whole grains were ranked second. A noteworthy distinction needs to be made between whole grains and fiber. All whole grains are not necessarily high in fiber as they vary considerably in their fiber content. Consumers need to read the food label of whole grain products to see if the product is a good (2.5g or 10%) or excellent (5 g or 20%) source of fiber.
The Type of Fiber Determines its Health Benefits
SunOpta Ingredients provides insoluble fibers in the form of oat fiber, soy fiber, pea fiber and stabilized oat, wheat and corn bran as well as soluble fiber from barley. Insoluble fiber is known to promote regularity, lower risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes, and lead to a feeling of fullness. Soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, is known for its cholesterol lowering properties. Some soluble fibers also play a role in satiety and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut (prebiotic effect). It is important to consume both types of fiber.
Oat Fiber is a Natural and Sustainable Source of Fiber
Hulls from oats grown in North America are the source of our oat fiber. Oats are grown entirely with green water (natural rainfall), not through irrigation. There is less total water used to grow oats than any other food fiber. SunOpta’s manufacturing plants are dedicated to water conservation and recently won the Central States Water Environment Association’s Industrial Achievement award. Click here to read about our commitment to sustainability.
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