Responding to the trend towards sustainability, the business line Care Specialties of Evonik Industries has extended its current range of active ingredients with TEGO® Cosmo PGA, a polypeptide of the amino-acid L-glutamic acid produced by biotechnology.
The unique production process of TEGO Cosmo PGA is based on the fermentation of L-glutamic acid by Bacillus subtilis natto, the same microorganism as the one used for the preparation of “Natto”. TEGO Cosmo PGA is edible, non-toxic to the human body and biodegradable. The characteristic polyanionic nature of TEGO Cosmo PGA polypeptide leads to interesting multiple benefits for many industries. For instance, it is known to facilitate calcium absorption improving osteoporosis conditions when used as a nutrition supplement. In cosmetics, its polyanionic character provides chelating properties for divalent cations, such as calcium and magnesium, supporting their solubilisation, delivery and bioavailabilty. It is also known as a film-former with good moisturising properties providing interesting sensory benefits.