The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have granted GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status to INNEO, a food processing aid made to eliminate Listeria monocytogenes.
This innovative technology, developed by Canadian biotechnology company Innodal, uses antimicrobial peptides to eliminate the harmful pathogen. With this approval, Innodal is set to launch industrial-scale projects with U.S. processing companies, marking its entry into the U.S. market.
INNEO, Innodal's flagship product, has been successfully commercialized in Canada for four years and will now be available to the U.S. market. Designed to target Listeria monocytogenes—a serious foodborne pathogen responsible for listeriosis—INNEO has proven significantly more effective than traditional chemical treatments in industry trials, particularly against strains that have led to major recalls in North America.
With its potent antimicrobial action, INNEO enhances the safety of ready-to-eat foods, thereby reducing public health risks associated with Listeria contamination. This clean label, natural solution preserves the taste, color and texture of food. As a recognized processing aid, INNEO can be used by food processors without requiring ingredient label updates, simplifying operations and minimizing waste.
Listeria monocytogenes is responsible for around 1,600 illnesses and 260 deaths annually in the U.S alone. Its ability to thrive in refrigerated environments and survive in food processing facilities poses a constant challenge to food safety. Its high mortality rate, particularly among vulnerable populations, makes the elimination of Listeria from food products crucial for public health and preventing costly recalls.
