The decision follows a positive European Food Safety Authority assessment delivered on September 13, 2012, which concluded that the use level for Zeaxanthin does not raise safety concerns. This opens up the 27 EU Member State market to DSM's Zeaxanthin brand Optisharp.
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.
Optisharp is widely applied to nutritional supplements in several other regions of the world, and the latest approval decision by the EC now offers companies in Europe the opportunity to add value to their products with a scientifically relevant and safe new ingredient.
CONTACT: DSM