US ingredient manufacturer Bonumose has opened a new manufacturing facility in Charlottesville, Virginia, dedicated to the production of tagatose – a low carbohydrate functional sweetener that can be used in a range of plant-based formulations.

The facility will produce high-quality tagatose for use in a range of F&B products. Tagatose is low on the glycemic index and has prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

By utilising enzymes and a plant-based starch – alongside a proprietary process – the company says it can reduce the cost of this sugar alternative, making it affordable for the global mass market.

The 50,000-square-foot facility uses equipment coupled with a patented enzymatic conversion process to ensure the production of high-quality tagatose. Equity investments from sweetener company ASR Group and The Hershey Company supported the opening of the facility, as well as a loan from X-Caliber Rural Capital. Bonumose has already secured 30 jobs in the local area.

Ed Rogers, CEO of Bonumose, said: “Opening this new facility is an important milestone on the road to bringing the benefits of tagatose to the public. More so than any other alternative to sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, we believe tagatose can enable better-for-you foods that are on parity for palatability and price with consumer favourites.”

The company plans to expand its production in the near future. Financial details were not disclosed.

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