Vitiva's antioxidant rosemary extracts get USDA organic certification

The USDA NOP certification follows demand from customers wishing to expand into the organic sector, said Vitiva CEO Ohad Cohen.

AquaRox and Inolens have been available in the United States for almost five years via distributor PL Thomas (PLT).

AquaRox​

Vitiva’s AquaRox line of rosemary extracts is available in numerous different grades, which the company adapts in formulations depending on the intended use.

The active ingredient is rosmarinic acid and is water-soluble, making it particularly suitable for water-based applications such as beverages.

In addition to its antioxidant properties, rosmarinic acid also helps extend shelf life for both cosmetic and food products.

The grades that have received NOP certification are AquaRox6 and AquaRox15, which contain 6 and 15 percent rosmarinic acid respectively. However, Cohen said the certification could also extend to other products because the raw materials and extraction processes are often similar, and because Vitiva usually supplies its ingredients as formulation ‘packages’ rather than as individual extracts.

Inolens​

Inolens is again derived from rosemary, with the active ingredient being the polyphenol carnosic acid.

An oil-soluble product, this is primarily used as a preservative in applications such as edible oils, confectionery and bakery goods in order to extend shelf life. However, as with the AquaRox line, it can also be used for its antioxidant properties in nutraceutical and cosmetic products.

Both ingredient lines have a number of certifications, including IFS, BRC, ISO, HACCP, and kosher, said Cohen.

He said that the organic versions of the ingredients are already in stock with PLT, and available immediately to US customers.