Nature-Identical Zeaxanthin Receives Novel Food Approval

The European Commission approved the use of nature-identical Zeaxanthin in the European Union as an ingredient in food supplements. The decision follows a positive EFSA safety assessment delivered on September 13, 2012, which concluded that the use level for Zeaxanthin does not raise safety concerns.

Approval opens up the 27 EU-member state market to Zeaxanthin brand OPTISHARP, and ingredient from DSM Nutritional Products, Parsippany, NJ. Together with Lutein, Zeaxanthin is one of the main components of the macular pigment selectively deposited into the human macula. It is found in a small, highly sensitive area of the retina responsible for central vision where it works as a blue light filter and as an antioxidant.