Kyowa Hakko USA self-affirms GRAS for the amino acid L-Ornithine

Kyowa Hakko USA has completed GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) self-affirmation for the amino acid L-Ornithine, with research supporting a potential anti-fatigue effect.

“We are excited about having GRAS for L-ornithine as this will expand the use of this important amino acid into traditional food and beverages,” said Dr. Toshikazu Kamiya, CEO & President of Kyowa Hakko USA.

L-Ornithine is described as an amino acid that is used to build muscle by stimulating protein synthesis through the enhancement of growth hormone secretion and to assist weight loss by increasing the basal metabolism.

According to the company, the GRAS Affirmation includes L-Ornithine, L-Ornithine Monohydrochloride, and L-Ornithine L-Aspartate. L-Ornithine will be marketed by Kyowa Hakko USA as a food ingredient in the United States for use at levels of 200 mg of L-ornithine/serving in various food products, such as beverages and beverages bases; grain products and pastas; milk products; and processed fruits and fruit juices.

A study published in Nutrition Research in 2008 (Vol. 28, pp. 738-743) supported by Kyowa Hakko Bio indicated that L-Ornithine has an anti-fatigue effect by increasing the efficiency of energy utilization and promoting the excretion of ammonia.