Barlív™ Barley Beta Glucan

ß-glucans are mixed (1,3)-ß- and (1,4)-ß-D-glucose linear polysaccharides and are a structural component of plant cell walls. ß-glucans are classified as water-soluble dietary fiber, and occur in certain cereal grains such as barley and oats. The concentration of ß-glucan in these cereal grains is low, generally around 4-10 percent. Using a proprietary technology, Cargill's high purity (> 70%) ß-glucan product, Barlív™ barley beta glucan, is extracted from barley. Barley beta glucan is "non-GMO;" there are currently no commercialized genetically enhanced varieties of barley.

Barlív™ barley beta glucan can be used in food products for its potential health benefits. The primary health benefit associated with a diet high in ß-glucan from oats (and low in saturated fat and cholesterol) is a reduction in the risk of heart disease. Emerging science indicates that barley ß-glucan lowers cholesterol and thus, may have a similar health benefit. Preliminary studies suggest that Cargill's Barlív™ barley beta glucan, as part of a heart healthy diet, may promote reduction of serum cholesterol levels.

In their position statement regarding the health implications of dietary fiber, the American Dietetic Association (ADA), reports that recommended intakes of 20-35 g/d for healthy adults and age plus 5 g/d for children over 2 years are not being met. In fact, current estimated consumption rates are 13-15 g/d. The ADA recognizes the health benefits of dietary consumption of viscous fibers as cholesterol-lowering and may also include normalization of blood glucose and insulin levels. Further health maintenance-related benefits reported by the ADA resulting from the consumption of fiber-rich diets are weight management and gastrointestinal health. Cargill's barley ß-glucan product can help food formulators address the gap between recommended intakes of fiber and those required to achieve the benefits of a fiber-rich diet.