DAVIS, CALIF. — Arcadia Biosciences, Inc. has developed new wheat varieties that may deliver enough fiber to meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration requirements for claims of “good source” of fiber or “high in fiber” on consumer product packaging.
While wheat normally has amylose levels between 25% and 30%, the new varieties from Arcadia contain up to 94% amylose. Amylose, a carbohydrate molecule, is less vulnerable to digestion. Increased levels of amylose correspond to high levels of resistant starch, a non-digestible prebiotic that promotes the growth of “good bacteria” that improve gut health.
“Arcadia’s new wheat varieties will allow people to enjoy the foods they love with the health benefits of resistant starch and dietary fiber while satisfying consumer demand for clean label, natural foods,” said Raj Ketkar, president and chief executive officer of Davis-based Arcadia Biosciences.
Arcadia Biosciences is working with consumer packaged goods companies on new formulations of existing products that use both enriched and whole wheat resistant starch flour. Arcadia Biosciences plans to increase the number of acres planted during the upcoming U.S. wheat growing season.
