IFF Launches HOWARU® GutABAlite™, a GABA-Producing Probiotic for Metabolic Health

Human clinical study associates gut GABA production with lower glucose and insulin response.

NEW YORK — October 26, 2026 — IFF (NYSE: IFF), a global leader in flavors, fragrances, and health & biosciences, today introduced HOWARU® GutABAlite™ (Levilactobacillus brevis LBR-6108™), a GABA-producing probiotic clinically studied for metabolic health. In a human study, the strain produced GABA in the gut and was associated with lower glucose exposure and insulin measures.

Metabolic health has become a defining nutrition conversation. Two-thirds of consumers worldwide say they understand it, often linking it to healthy blood sugar, energy and digestive health.¹ GutABAlite™ offers brands a novel way to address these connected needs through the gut microbiome with a single daily probiotic.

“Consumers want practical ways to support healthy blood sugar, sustained energy and digestive health as connected parts of everyday wellness,” said Allyson Fish, senior vice president of IFF Health Sciences. “GutABAlite™ gives supplement and functional food brands a differentiated, gut-first solution backed by human clinical evidence.”

A gut-first signal, measured in humans
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human study, GutABAlite™ produced GABA in the gut, increased beneficial short-chain fatty acids and was associated with favorable changes in glucose and insulin measures compared with placebo.

After six weeks, participants taking GutABAlite™ experienced lower daily glucose exposure, demonstrating a trend of approximately 18% lower fasting insulin and approximately 20% lower HOMA-IR, a marker of insulin resistance. The effects diminished after supplementation ended.

“What is exciting is the clear line from activity in the gut to meaningful metabolic signals,” said Mark Haupt, chief medical officer, IFF Health Sciences. “In just six weeks, we saw favorable changes in glucose exposure and in two important indicators of insulin function—a promising result for a gut-first approach to metabolic health.”

GutABAlite™ is available for dietary supplement and functional food applications and joins HOWARU®, IFF’s portfolio of clinically studied probiotic strains backed by decades of microbiome expertise and quality manufacturing. Brands can explore the science and product concepts at SupplySide Global, booth [6449], or schedule a meeting with the IFF Health Sciences team.

Source

1. FMCG Gurus, Metabolic Health Survey, 2024, global results.

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