Oobli gains FDA approval for Monellin sweet protein, expands leadership team

AUSA – Oobli, a leading innovator in sugar alternatives, has secured Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its sweet protein Monellin.

According to Oobli, this achievement marks a significant expansion of its platform of natural sugar substitutes, positioning the company as a key player in the future of sweetness for food and beverage (F&B) applications.

Monellin is part of a growing class of sweet proteins derived primarily from fruits native to West Africa and equatorial regions.

Unlike traditional sweeteners such as cane sugar, aspartame, and stevia, these proteins deliver sugar-like sweetness without impacting blood sugar, insulin levels, or gut microbiomes.

Oobli’s founder and CTO, Jason Ryder, emphasizes the revolutionary potential of sweet proteins, stating, “Oobli is changing the future of sweetness through the use of sweet proteins as a replacement for traditional sweeteners.”

The GRAS designation follows the FDA’s earlier approval of another sweet protein, brazzein, highlighting the industry’s growing acceptance of these healthier alternatives.

Oobli received a “no questions” letter from the FDA, which Ryder describes as a critical milestone.

“We are the first company in the world to successfully build a platform of multiple sweet proteins,” he noted, underscoring Oobli’s pioneering role in the sector.

The company’s platform aims to provide flexible and versatile solutions, enabling food manufacturers to reduce sugar content by up to 70% without compromising taste.

Several companies, including Grupo Bimbo, are collaborating with Oobli to integrate sweet proteins into their products, with expanded offerings expected in 2025.

Ryder likens the approach to providing more tools in the toolkit for reducing sugar content across diverse food systems.

To capitalize on this momentum, Oobli has strengthened its leadership team by appointing Heather Malenshek and Dr. Geoffrey Duyk to its Board of Directors.

According to Ali Wing, CEO of Oobli, their expertise in technology leadership and commercial growth will play a pivotal role in scaling operations.

“Our new board members bring unparalleled expertise that will drive our protein platform forward,” Wing noted.

Additionally, Oobli’s scientific advisory board now includes Dr. Chris Damman and Dr. Francine Kaufman, focusing on clinical research in areas such as gut health and blood sugar response.

This emphasis on science-backed solutions is expected to bolster Oobli’s credibility and attract more F&B partners.