Enzyme Solution Seeks to Reduce Acrylamide Levels in Coffee Items

In a significant stride towards enhancing food safety, c-LEcta, a part of the Kerry Group, in collaboration with Anka, a platform specializing in the coffee sector, has unveiled a groundbreaking enzymatic solution. This innovative Acrylerase solution aims to tackle the issue of acrylamide levels in soluble coffee products, presenting a promising alternative to current mitigation methods.

Acrylamide, a well-known carcinogen, typically forms during high-heat processes such as roasting and extraction. It is notably prevalent in the production of soluble coffee and coffee concentrates. The introduction of the Acrylerase solution, built on patented enzyme technology, marks a noteworthy advancement in addressing this concern directly and effectively.

The Acrylerase solution distinguishes itself by efficiently decomposing acrylamide on-site during processing. This feature allows for seamless integration into existing manufacturing processes, presenting a practical and feasible option for soluble coffee manufacturers looking to enhance food safety standards.

Jan Schwital, managing director of Anka, echoed these sentiments, expressing excitement about the launch of Acrylerase. He highlighted simplicity and efficiency as crucial elements for successful industrial applications, stating, "Acrylerase provides just that for controlling acrylamide in instant coffee and coffee extracts." The emphasis on simplicity underscores the user-friendly nature of this enzymatic solution, making it accessible and effective for F&B manufacturers.

The global focus on mitigating acrylamide in food products has prompted regulatory bodies to prioritize effective solutions. Acrylerase, with its targeted enzymatic approach, comes at a time when directives and regulations are already in place in various regions. For instance, countries like South Korea and the European Union have mandated the monitoring and reduction of acrylamide levels in diverse product categories, including soluble coffee.

Oliver Süße-Herrmann, managing director of Anka, emphasized the transformative impact of Acrylerase on the industry. He stated, "Acrylerase not only offers soluble coffee manufacturers a much simpler and more flexible way to comply with acrylamide regulations than was previously possible but also enables the usage of coffee volumes that may otherwise be rejected due to high acrylamide formation." This acknowledgment of increased flexibility and improved compliance reflects the potential of Acrylerase to positively reshape manufacturing practices and product acceptance within the coffee industry.

The launch of Acrylerase comes as a response to the urgent need for innovative solutions in the food and beverage sector. The collaboration between c-LEcta and Anka underscores the industry's commitment to addressing health and safety concerns while ensuring the continued enjoyment of consumer favorites like soluble coffee. As Acrylerase becomes more widely adopted, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of acrylamide reduction strategies and setting new standards for food safety in the coffee industry.