Axiom Foods has announced the launch of Oryzatein 2.0, a rice protein that, according to independent testing, contains no detectable levels of heavy metals. The product, which comes in both isolate and organic versions, is intended for use in food and beverage formulations.
“We are immensely proud of the progress we have made […] eliminating any trace of heavy metals”
The release follows a report by the Clean Label Project that raised concerns over heavy metal contamination in plant-based protein powders, stating that some products contained higher levels of lead and cadmium compared to whey-based alternatives. In response, Axiom Foods claims that Oryzatein 2.0 has been engineered to remove naturally occurring heavy metals to levels so low that they are undetectable by laboratory instruments.
Food scientist Rick Ray explained, “No one adds heavy metals into food products, but all plants contain naturally occurring organic levels of constituents in the soil, which include organic arsenic and cadmium. What really matters is if organic or inorganic heavy metals are present at toxic levels, which, for Axiom Foods, has never been the case.”
Axiom Foods has been supplying plant-based protein ingredients since 2005, serving sectors including food, supplements, beverages, baking, and pet food. The company has also been active in addressing supply chain issues, recently expanding its pea protein production to reduce reliance on imports from China following US tariffs imposed in 2023.
According to testing conducted by Dyad Labs, a Merieux NutriSciences Company, and SGS Labs, Oryzatein 2.0 meets this standard. The product is also characterized by a white color, improved solubility, and a grit-free texture, which Axiom says enhances its functionality in food and beverage applications.
Axiom Foods CEO David Janow commented on the importance of transparency in food labeling, stating, “Through rigorous sourcing, manufacturing, and clinical testing, we have worked hard to educate formulators, buyers, and consumers alike. We are immensely proud of the progress we have made in developing Oryzatein 2.0, which has successfully eliminated any trace of heavy metals.”
The organic version of Oryzatein 2.0 is set to launch in March 2025.
