RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CALIF. — A panel has completed self-affirmed Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) certification for BlueSweet LHG extract, a sweetener derived from luo han guo (also known as monkfruit), according to Rancho Santa Margarita-based Blue California. BlueSweet LHG is 300 times sweeter than sugar, soluble, stable and has almost zero calories, according to Blue California. Potential applications include nutritional bars, beverages, cereal, desserts, yogurt, chewing gum, candy, chocolate and protein powders.

“We are very pleased to introduce yet another superb natural sweetener for food and beverages applications,” said Cecilia McCollum, executive vice-president of Blue California. “We are focused on expanding our food ingredients division and helping customers meet the growing consumer demand for natural sweeteners and flavors.”