EP2395850A1

EP2395850A1 - Food additive composition as an agent for reducing the adhesion of dental biofilms in sweetened products

Info

Publication number: EP2395850A1
Application number: EP10702707A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Dominique Valeri
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Alphanosos Sas
Priority date: 2009-02-10
Filing date: 2010-02-09
Publication date: 2011-12-21
Also published as: CA2751770A1; WO2010092034A1; FR2941846A1; BRPI1005832A2; CN102316748A; US20120064015A1; FR2941847A1; FR2941847B1; FR2941846B1; JP2012517233A

Abstract

The present invention relates to a food additive composition to be added to sugar or sweetened products containing cariogenic free sugars or by-products thereof, enabling a reduction of the adhesion of dental biofilms and the appearance of caries while strengthening the tooth and the dental support tissue. The present invention also relates to food products made of cariogenic free sugars or by-products thereof containing said food additive product, as well as to a method of manufacturing such a food product containing said food additive composition, such as a chocolate.

Description

Food adjuvant composition as a reducing agent for adhesion of dental biofilm in sweet products

The present invention relates to a food adjuvant composition intended to be incorporated in sugar or sugar products containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, to reduce the adhesion of the dental biofilm and the appearance of caries while strengthening the tooth and dental support tissues. The present invention also relates to food products based cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof containing this food adjuvant composition and a method of manufacturing such a food product containing this food adjuvant composition such as a chocolate.

Caries is the third global scourge after cancer and cardiovascular disease. According to data from the World Health Organization, 60% to 90% of children in school in industrialized countries have caries, as well as a large majority of adults. Tooth decay is also the most common oral disease in many Asian and Latin American countries.

In addition, periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis, affect 80% of European adults and 50% of 15 year olds.

There is a direct link between sugar consumption and carious disease.

To colonize the dental tissues, the bacteria will organize by establishing a strong relationship of adhesion on the enamel of the teeth but also between them. If this process is not disturbed by suitable brushing, a yellowish deposit is formed very quickly and visibly: dental plaque or biofilm. This biofilm is a complex set of different bacterial populations encompassed in a polysaccharide and glycoprotein matrix that decreases access of salivary buffers to tooth surfaces in proportion to its development. Bacteria in the dental plaque ferment monosaccharides (eg fructose, glucose and galactose), disaccharides (eg sucrose, maltose and lactose) and polysaccharides (eg starch) made during food intake. During this process, acids are formed during

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) closer to the teeth, thus causing repeated drops in pH which lead to the solubilization of the crystals of the hydroxyapatite forming the enamel of the teeth and eventually a demineralization of the teeth. For caries to develop, four conditions must be met: - The presence of plaque bacteria on the surface of the tooth (mainly the

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans)];

- Availability of fermentable sugars (especially sucrose);

- The more or less fragile host (thickness of the enamel, malposition of the teeth etc ...);

- Sufficient duration (adherent products are therefore more cariogenic). The plaque bacteria also act on the periodontal tissues by releasing irritating products (urea, ammonia ...), enzymes and toxins that trigger an inflammatory and immunological reaction of the gums, thus causing gingivitis. The elimination of the anti-infective agents can lead to an overproduction of cytokines which instead of being protective, become destructive of the periodontal structures, and thus lead to periodontitis, ie a definitive recession of the support tissue, which in extreme ways can lead to loosening and loss of teeth.

Sugars are thus the main dietary factor associated with caries and more generally with periodontal diseases.

Although fluoride plays an indisputable role in caries prevention, it does not eliminate these pathologies and many communities are not exposed to optimal amounts of fluoride. Moreover, the fluoride dosage which allows a tooth-strengthening effect by transforming the hydroxyapatite of the enamel into fluoroapatite is not unanimous because of the risk of secondary pathologies incurred (fluorosis, neurological consequences, etc.). .

The food industry also offers many products in which sugar is replaced by sweeteners that have little or no cariogens while having a high sweetening power.

However, sweeteners used in the food industry are most often synthetic products and although their use has been validated by the authorities

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) regulations, they worry people who prefer to avoid such chemicals and their carcinogenic image in favor of products of natural origin.

In order to prevent the development of periodontal diseases and especially caries, the World Health Organization recommends above all to reduce the amount of free sugars, as well as a diet rich in foods, fruits and vegetables containing starch and fiber, which appear to be associated with low caries, and low in free sugars and fats.

Another alternative appeared in the 1970s with the use of xylitol for the first time in a dental application (Turku study). Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol with five carbon isolated beech chips by the Fischer chemist in the late 19 ^th century. This one presents interesting properties:

It inhibits the growth of bacteria responsible for plaque that are unable to metabolize it and therefore do not produce cariogenic acids,

Particularly in the form of a gum, it stimulates the secretion of saliva and thus favors this natural system of defense against caries (increased buffering effect, production of amylase and peroxidase ...). It is less caloric than sucrose with equal sweetening power.

Although its effectiveness is no longer to be proven, the use of xylitol is still debatable in terms of cost and accessibility to all. Indeed, the cost of its commercial production which is made from birch, corn and sugar cane by hydrolysis and hydrogenation of xylan, remains high. In addition, the effects of its anti-cariogenic efficacy as such are measured by the regularity of catches over the long term. If changes in the oral bacterial flora are observed within 24 hours after taking xylitol, it is considered that it takes 2 to 3 years of regular intake to ensure residual anti-caries residual protection. Such regularity implies a voluntary approach over a long period of time and the establishment of a system of surveillance and supervision in a prevention program which represents a significant cost.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) In addition, although having a sucking power identical to that of sucrose, xylitol has a marked minty taste that reduces its potential for use at high doses, replacing sucrose in most sweet foods. In addition, its daily consumption must not exceed the amount of 10 g for an adult, according to the list of excipients with known effect published in the Official Journal of October 12, 2007, amount beyond which the risk of osmotic diarrhea are high. A general belief, however, very often raises this threshold to 20 to 30 g for an adult.

In 2008, the European Food Safety Authority delivered an opinion on the scientific justification for a health claim concerning xylitol chewing gum / lozenges and reducing the risk of tooth decay. This claim referred to sweetened chewing gum containing 100% xylitol and pastilles sweetened with at least 56% xylitol. It was found that only xylitol chewing gum decreases the risk of tooth decay in children, this effect being related to daily consumption of 2-3 g of sweetened chewing gum at least three times a day after meals.

The current use of xylitol is therefore associated with its anti-cariogenic effect as such, ie as a substitute for conventional sugars (cariogenic) that can not be metabolized by plaque bacteria and therefore be the origin of the production of acids responsible for the initiation of the carious process.

Its use as a substitute for conventional sugars, however, is limited by the maximum daily intake of 10 g while the daily consumption of free sugars recommended by the WHO is 62 to 94 g, consumption up to triple in "supercharged" countries (220 g per adult per day in Canada).

Its use as a substitute for conventional sugars is also limited by its inadequate minty taste in many products.

In addition, the consumption of xylitol in the form of chewing gums, a formulation supposed to enhance their action by the associated chewing effect, has many limitations:

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) - It should be avoided in children under three years of age given the high risk of choking in this age group,

It is not easily controllable in quantity and may exceed the recommended dose limit, causing risks of osmotic diarrhea. - It can be at the origin of gastro-oesophageal and intestinal pathologies,

The process must be voluntary,

The consumption of such products is not easily accessible to all because expensive,

Access to xylitol through this is done in combination with many additives, dyes, humectants (E414, E222, E271, etc ...).

The present invention relates to a food adjuvant composition which overcomes all these disadvantages. This contains the elements that reduce the appearance of caries and the elements that strengthen the tooth and dental support tissues. This composition is remarkable in a first aspect in that it has a synergy between a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent, a remineralizing agent and an antiseptic agent. This composition is remarkable in a second aspect in that it is intended to be incorporated in sweet products containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, thereby reducing the appearance of caries while strengthening the tooth and dental support tissues, with no change in eating habits.

The present invention thus relates to a food adjuvant composition comprising: a) a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent, b) a mineralizing agent based on silicon and / or calcium-based, c) an antiseptic agent.

The term "food adjuvant composition" means a composition intended to be added to a food product, that is to say a product that is consumed by living beings (humans or animals) for energy or nutritional purposes.

According to the present invention, the term "dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent" is understood to mean an agent which is capable of reducing the number of S. mutons attaching to the dental surface and / or the cohesion between these different streptococci and / or the cohesion of polysaccharides forming this biofilm and which therefore limits adhesion and / or development

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) biofilm or dental plaque. In the expression "dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent" is also included a possible mixture of several agents described in the corresponding list below, which can individually exercise the function of "adhesion reducing agent of the dental biofilm ". The anti-adhesion agent according to the present invention acts by interfering with the metabolism of the bacteria that make up the biofilm, in particular by disrupting their adhesion and / or colonization process on dental surfaces or periodontal tissues. There are many methods for identifying such dental biofilm adhesion reducing agents. For example, tests to evaluate the adhesion of mutans streptococci to solid supports or tissues or to show a decrease in plaque on hydroxyapatite are described in Bertrand et al. (Cahiers de l'ADF, No. 14-15, ^2nd quarter 2003), Engels-Deutsch et al. (The specifications of the ADF, No. 16-17, ^Q3 2003) or WO97 / 38670. According to the present invention, the term "mineralizing agent" is intended to mean an agent which is capable of supplying the dental organic tissues, in particular the tooth, the tooth, the dental bone or the periodontal tissues, preferably dental bone, mineral substances in a form assimilable by said tissues. The mineralizing agent according to the invention contains at least silicon and / or calcium, or at least one of their derivatives, especially organic derivatives, such as silica (SiO ₂ ). In the expression "mineralizing agent" is also understood a possible mixture of several agents described in the corresponding list below, which can individually exercise the function of "mineralizing agent".

According to the present invention, the term "antiseptic agent" means any molecule or extract containing this molecule which destroys infectious agents such as bacteria for example, or opposes their proliferation. In periodontics, such agents are, for example, but not limited to chlorhexidine, hexetidine, phenols, quaternary ammoniums, oxidizing agents or plant extracts. In the expression "antiseptic agent" is also included a possible mixture of several agents described in the corresponding list below, which can individually exercise the function of "antiseptic agent".

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) In a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the present invention consists entirely of ingredients of natural origin.

In this preferred embodiment, the dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent of the composition according to the present invention may be chosen in particular from polyols, cranberries, coffee, chicory, tea or grapes, in particular raisins. or red wine. The polyols acting as agent for reducing adhesion of the dental biofilm can be chosen in particular from:

hydrogenated monosaccharides, such as xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol or erythritol;

hydrogenated disacharrides, such as maltitol, lactitol, hydrogenated isomaltulose (equimolar mixture of glucopyranosyl-1,6 sorbitol and glucopyranosyl-1,1, mannitol); inulin. Preferably, the dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent is xylitol, which can be extracted from birch bark, for example. As previously stated, several of these biofilm adhesion reducing agents can be used in the composition according to the present invention.

In this preferred embodiment, the silicon-based mineralizing agent of the composition according to the present invention is advantageously a substance of plant origin containing silica extracted from plants among horsetail (Equisetum arvense containing about 80% of silica in its stem. and 60% silica in the whole plant), lithotame, alfalfa, soybean, nettle, bamboo or meadow queen. These plants can enter directly into the composition of the present invention as a mineralizing agent providing the silica, in the form of a dried powder of ground vegetables of the whole plant concerned or a part thereof. Also, this substance of plant origin can be first obtained in liquid form from a whole plant meal or a part thereof, then dried in a second time to obtain a powder . Various extraction methods (hydrodistillation, solvent extraction, ultrasonic extraction, pressing, decoction, maceration, infusion, pressing, cryomilling, enfleurage), filtering (ultrafiltration, nanofiltration) and purification such as chromatography can be used to concentrate in mineralizing agent the crushed form

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) liquid before drying or lyophilize to obtain a powder. Preferably, this mineralizing agent based on silica is horsetail. As previously stated, several of these mineralizing agents can be used in the composition according to the present invention.

In this preferred embodiment, the antiseptic or antimicrobial agent of the composition according to the present invention is advantageously a substance extracted from plants among the sage (Salvia officinalis), the echinacea, the myrrh, the propolis, the ratanhia of Peru, the calendula , yam, chamomile, aloe vera, acerola, sanguinarine, lemon or grapefruit. These plants can enter directly into the composition of the present invention as an antiseptic agent in the form of a dried powder of crushed seeds of all the plant concerned or a part thereof. Also, this substance of plant origin can be first obtained in liquid form from a whole vegetable meal or a part thereof, and then dried in a second time to obtain a powder. . Various extraction methods (hydrodistillation, extraction by solvents, ultrasonic extraction, pressing, decoction, maceration, infusion, pressing, cryobrushing, enfleurage), filtering (ultrafiltration, nanofiltration) and purification such as chromatography can be used to concentrate mineralizing agent mill in liquid form before drying or lyophilize to obtain a powder. Preferably, the composition according to the invention contains sage as an antiseptic agent. As previously stated, several of these antiseptic agents can be used in the composition according to the present invention.

Thus, in this preferred embodiment, the composition according to the present invention is characterized in that: a) the agent for reducing adhesion of the dental biofilm is chosen from the group consisting of: polyols such as xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, erythritol, hydrogenated disacharrides, such as maltitol, lactitol, hydrogenated isomaltulose, - cranberry, coffee, chicory, inulin, tea, grapes, raisins, red wine b) the mineralizing agent based on silicon is selected from the group consisting of:

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) silica, substances of vegetable origin extracted from plants among horsetail, lithotame, alfalfa, soybean, nettle, bamboo or meadowsweet, c) the antiseptic agent is a substance extracted from selected plants among sage, echinacea, myrrh, propolis, Peruvian ratanhia, calendula, yam, chamomile, aloes vera, acerola, sanguinarine, lemon or grapefruit.

The composition according to the present invention may also contain a dental support fabric reinforcing agent, preferably an oil chosen in particular from vegetable oils such as avocado oil, evening primrose oil, borage or soybean oil, or among animal oils containing omega 3 or 6, especially oily fish oils. Preferably, the composition according to the invention contains avocado oil as a reinforcing agent for the dental support tissues. By way of information, avocado oil contains approximately 42 to 63% oleic acid, 17 to 29% palmitic acid, 9 to 16% linoleic acid, less than 1% linolenic acid; from 1 to 2% unsaponifiable constituted half of branched hydrocarbons with 20% of sterols and unidentified reducing triols. In this case, the composition according to the present invention is characterized in that the composition additionally contains a dental support fabric reinforcing agent chosen from vegetable oils of avocado, evening primrose, borage or soya, or else Oily fish oils containing omega 3 or 6.

Particularly preferably, the composition according to the present invention is characterized in that it contains xylitol as a reducing agent for adhesion of dental biofilm, horsetail as a mineralizing agent based on silica, sage as an antiseptic agent.

In addition, the composition according to the present invention is characterized in that it may further contain avocado oil as a reinforcing agent for dental support tissues.

In a first aspect, the composition according to the present invention is remarkable in that it has a synergy between a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent, a remineralizing agent and an antiseptic agent.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) The bacteria responsible for dental diseases (S. mutans) use six carbons as their primary energy source. Mutans streptococci in the oral cavity colonize tooth surfaces via adhesins, which are protein components of the bacterial wall. S. mutans plays a key role in both initiation and development of the carious process through its homofermental metabolism by degrading food sugars and producing acids, but also its ability to produce polysaccharides that participate in the process. adhesion of bacteria (on dental surfaces and between them) to form dental plaque or biofilm.

Studies show that at very low doses, xylitol interferes with the metabolism of S. mutans in the oral cavity. Xylitol is transported within S. mutans cells via the phosphotransferase system of fructose, phosphorylated to xylitol 5-phopshate which can not be fermented or metabolized and accumulates in intracellular vacuoles causing rapid inhibition of growth. of S. mutans. Also, a futile cycle of xylitol can be set up, also inhibiting bacterial growth indirectly, by phosphorylation and subsequent dephosphorylation of xylitol for its entry and expulsion of the cells, respectively. However, S. mutans adapt rapidly (about 24 hours) and become resistant to xylitol (called S. mutans XR). During this adaptation, the S ¹ , XR mutans modify some of their metabolic pathways thus permitting the entry of xylitol into the cells via a permease and its non-phosphorylation into xylitol 5-phosphate, thus avoiding the triggering of the futile cycle and any effect inhibitor on the growth of bacteria. These adaptations result in S. mutans XR an impairment of the ability to synthesize the extra and intracellular polysaccharides that form the framework of the dental biofilm. As a result, this biofilm becomes less adherent to the tooth surfaces. Since S. mutans XR have a faster reproductive capacity than the parent strains, they become the majority in the biofilm and thus make it progressively less adherent and less virulent.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) In the context of the present invention, the polyols, and in particular xylitol are used as adhesion reducing agents of biolim and not as non-cariogenic sweeteners.

Surprisingly, in the context of the composition according to the present invention, the combination of xylitol with a mineralizing agent and an antiseptic agent as defined above creates a synergy making it possible to increase the beneficial effects of these components in the fight against the process. caries. Without being limited to a particular theory, it is possible that the destabilization of the biofilm caused by the adhesion reducing agent facilitates the access of the mineralizing agent and the antiseptic agent to the dental surface and the periodontal tissues, which allows to potentiate their beneficial actions. This additional effect provided by the composition according to the present invention is therefore not a simple addition of the effects of the various components but a combination of effects making it possible to limit the appearance of caries by strengthening the tooth and the dental support tissues by destabilization of the adhesion of the dental biofilm.

The second aspect in which the composition according to the present invention is remarkable is that it is intended to be incorporated in sweet products containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, by making it possible to reduce the appearance of caries while strengthening the tooth and dental support tissues, without changing dietary habits.

Cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof are understood to mean all monosaccharides (simple sugars) and disaccharides (sugars composed of two monosaccharides), including refined sugars of cane, beetroot and maize, such as sucrose, glucose, fructose for example, but also derivatives thereof, naturally present in certain foods (honey, syrups, fruit juice) or added, and triggering the carious process. Also included in this composition are sugars which are similar to the preceding ones in the family of oses (aldoses and ketoses), such as the anomers and epimers thereof, which can trigger the carious process; as well as the derivatives of the above sugars such as polyols derived from monosaccharides by the reduction of the aldehyde or ketone group of a carbohydrate.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) Surprisingly, the synergy described above between the xylitol used as a reducing agent for the adhesion of the dental biolilm, a remineralizing agent and an antiseptic agent in the context of the composition according to the present invention also occurs when the composition of the present invention is added in products having a high content of cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof. Thus, the composition according to the present invention makes it possible to reduce the cariogenic effect of the sweet product in which it is incorporated while exerting a beneficial reinforcement action at the level of the tooth and dental support tissues such as the gums and the bone. dental.

The composition according to the present invention is intended to be incorporated into sweet products. It reduces the cariogenic effect of the sweet product in which it is incorporated while exerting a beneficial strengthening action on the gums and dental bone.

The composition according to the present invention thus overcomes a commonly accepted prejudice by making it possible to reduce the carious process despite the absorption of cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof by a reduction in the composition and adhesion of dental plaque despite this absorption of cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof.

Surprisingly, the composition according to the present invention makes it possible to overcome a possible effect of competition between polyols, and in particular xylitol, and cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, present in food products to which is added the composition according to the present invention; even in cases where cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof are largely in the majority in food products to which is added the composition according to the present invention.

By a synergistic action, the combination of polyols and in particular xylitol, as a reducing agent for the adhesion of the dental biofilm, with a remineralizing agent and an antiseptic agent makes it possible to potentiate the reduction in the cohesion and adhesion of dental plaque, remineralizing power and cleansing of the tooth, gums and dental bone.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) The reducing effect of the adhesion of the biofilm by the polyols and in particular the xylitol, as well as the synergistic action of the various components, is observable and therefore usable for a small final percentage of the various components of the food adjuvant composition according to the present invention. , added to a food product. In particular, the amount of xylitol present in the food adjuvant composition according to the present invention is such that the final percentage thereof in a food product containing predominantly cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof does not exceed 0.8%. (w / w).

Compared with the solutions proposed in the prior art, the food adjuvant composition that is the subject of the present invention therefore has the following major advantages:

• It is easy to manufacture and inexpensive;

• It can be made entirely from natural elements of plant origin; "The food product to which it is added retains its usual sugar content;

• It does not induce a change in the sweetness or texture of the food product to which it is added.

• It does not have the minty taste of using a certain percentage of xylitol.

• There is no risk of osmotic diarrhea due to the low Xylitol intake it causes.

• It does not present risks of gastro-oesophageal and intestinal pathologies related to the consumption of chewing gum

Also, this adjuvant food composition:

• Suitable for all age groups including the youngest.

• Does not change dietary habits that are strongly physiologically, psychologically and socially oriented towards sugar intake. • Does not require a voluntary approach to be assimilated since it is incorporated into very common food products.

• Guarantees regular intake of xylitol.

• Is accessible to all in terms of cost.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) Moreover, the adjuvant food composition provides a proportional protection to the intake of sugar, quantitatively and qualitatively. Indeed, the protection exerted by the components of the composition of the present invention will be even higher than the intake of sugar containing this composition according to the present invention will be repeated, important and high cariogenic (sticky sugar confectionery). The more the intake of sugar containing the composition of the present invention will be regular and will spread over time, the more sugar will be sticky and the teeth will then be in contact with the beneficial components of the present food adjuvant composition.

The food adjuvant composition according to the present invention therefore allows, without changing the dietary habits of populations that present physiologically and psychologically and from birth a pronounced taste for sugar or all products containing it, to reduce the carious process by destabilization of the dental biofilm, while strengthening the tooth and dental support tissues. This composition thus makes it possible, by its addition to common sweet foods, to take advantage of the eating habits in place and to take advantage of the destructive aspects of sugar to exert actions that curb the carious and restorative process.

The composition which is the subject of the present invention notably comprises: a. About 79 to 99 parts by weight, preferably 90 to 96 parts by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent; b. About 0.5 to 19 parts by weight, preferably 2.5 to 10 parts by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent; vs. About 0.2 to 2 parts by weight, preferably 0.4 to 1 parts by weight of an antiseptic agent of vegetable origin such as sage.

The composition object of the present invention may further comprise about 0.2 to 2 parts by weight, preferably 0.4 to 1 part by weight of a dental support tissue reinforcing agent.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) By weight share, we mean the share of the mass of a component relative to the sum of the masses of the components, multiplied by 100, in other words the percentage by mass of a component in the total composition.

As mentioned above, the composition according to the present invention is intended to be incorporated into sweet products. As such, it can be used as a cariogenic reducing agent in a food product containing free sugars and further as a reinforcing agent for dental support tissues.

As a food additive or food additive composition, the composition according to the present invention preferably contains at least 79% by weight, preferably at least 85% by weight, even more preferably at least 95% by weight of a reducing agent. adhesion of the dental biofilm, preferably at least 0.5% by weight, preferably at least 2.5% by weight, still more preferably at least 10% of a mineralizing agent based on silicon and at least 0 , 2% by weight, preferably 0.4% by weight, even more preferably 1% of an antiseptic agent.

It can be used in solid form, for example in the form of powder or granules, or in liquid form in combination with a suitable liquid carrier.

It can also be used as a gel. It can be incorporated directly into an already sweet food product or the sugar itself, prior to its incorporation into the food product that one wishes to sweeten. It can be in one of the forms previously mentioned to be added extemporaneously, by the consumer in a product of his choice.

For example, the composition according to the invention can be advantageously added to cane sugar or beet sugar which contain sucrose, to milk sugar which contains lactose, to malt sugar which contains maltose, to fruit sugar that contains fructose or grape sugar that contains dextrose and glucose.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) For use as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent in a food product containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, the food adjuvant composition according to the present invention provides said food product with: a. 0.1 to 0.8% by weight, preferably 0.3 to 0.6% by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent; b. 0.005 to 0.02% by weight, preferably 0.01 to 0.02% by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin, such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent; vs. From 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably from 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of an antiseptic agent of vegetable origin such as sage;

For a use more specifically directed towards the reinforcement of the dental support tissues, the food adjuvant composition according to the present invention provides, in a food product containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, in addition of 0.001 to 0.01%. by weight, preferably 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of avocado oil as a dental support tissue reinforcing agent.

The present invention also relates to a food product containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, comprising a) a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent, b) a mineralizing agent based on silicon and / or based on calcium and c) an antiseptic agent, described above, in the proportions described above for each of these components, namely: a. About 79 to 99 parts by weight, preferably 90 to 96 parts by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent; b. About 0.5 to 19 parts by weight, preferably 2.5 to 10 parts by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent; vs. About 0.2 to 2 parts by weight, preferably 0.4 to 1 parts by weight of an antiseptic agent of plant origin such as sage, said food product containing: a. 0.1 to 0.8% by weight, preferably 0.3 to 0.6% by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent;

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) b. 0.005 to 0.02% by weight, preferably 0.01 to 0.02% by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin, such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent; vs. From 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably from 0.002 to 0.003% by weight. an antiseptic agent of plant origin such as sage.

In another embodiment, the food product of the present invention containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof may further comprise from 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably from 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of the present invention. an agent for reinforcing dental support tissues selected from vegetable oils of avocado, evening primrose, borage or soy, or among animal oils of oily fish containing omega 3 or 6.

For its use in a food product, the preceding percentages describe for each component of the adjuvant composition according to the present invention, the final percentage of this component in said food product. It is understood that this percentage reflects the mass of the component concerned per 100 g of solid food product, or per 100 g of liquid food product if any. Depending on the density of the liquid concerned, it is understood that 100 g of this liquid may have a neighboring volume but different from 100 ml which is the volume occupied by 100 g of water.

Preferably, said food product contains, as free sugars, sucrose, glucose, fructose or any cariogenic polyol. It can be chosen in particular from sugar, confectionery, such as cocoa or chocolate-based products including chocolate, chocolate bars or chocolate spreads, chewing gums, decorating products for pastry or topping; dairy products, such as milk drinks, fermented or renneted milk products, condensed milks, milk desserts; sherbets or ice creams; fruit-based products, such as jams, jellies, marmalades, fruit-based spreads, candied fruits, pulps, purees, toppings made from fruit or coconut milk, fruit-based desserts ; cereals and cereal products; baked goods, such as pancakes and cakes; sweeteners, including honey; preparations for infants, young children, young children or intended for medical or dietary use; the

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) drug coatings; beverages such as fruit or vegetable juices, nectars, beverages ^; flavored water, sodas, coffee or substitutes, teas or infusions; dietetic foods; food supplements ; condiments such as mustard or ketchup; soups or soups; cooked or semi-cooked dishes; frozen or composite foods.

The composition according to the present invention may be especially incorporated in chocolate or more generally in a chocolate product, without inducing any change in flavor of the product.

Chocolate or chocolate product means any dark chocolate or milk chocolate or any product containing or containing such chocolates, that is to say composed of cocoa mass, cocoa butter, sugar, milk in the form of case of chocolates of the same name and possibly of soy lecithin and / or other vegetable fats, and / or aromas. By chocolate, we also mean any white chocolate or any product containing or containing such chocolates, that is to say composed of cocoa butter, milk, sugar and possibly soy lecithin and / or other materials vegetable fats, and / or aromas. Also included in this definition are the different forms that can take said chocolates or chocolate products namely solid and liquid.

Said chocolate or chocolate product is characterized in that it contains: a. 0.1 to 0.8% by weight, preferably 0.3 to 0.6% by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent; b. 0.005 to 0.02% by weight, preferably 0.01 to 0.02% by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin, such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent; vs. From 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably from 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of an antiseptic agent of vegetable origin such as sage.

In addition, said chocolate or chocolate product may contain from 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably from 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of a dental support tissue reinforcing agent.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) The present invention therefore also relates to a chocolate manufacturing process for incorporating the previously described components of the food adjuvant composition, characterized by the succession of the following steps: a. Blend of xylitol powders as a reducing agent for adhesion of dental biofilm, horsetail as a source of mineralizing agent and sage as antiseptic agent; b. Grinding of the mixture obtained in step a), preferably until a particle size less than or equal to 20 μm is obtained; vs. Performing kneading, refining, conching, tempering operations from cocoa paste, sugar, and possibly cocoa butter and milk powder; d. Incorporation of the powdery mixture obtained in step b) into the chocolate paste obtained at the end of step c); e. Incidentally, incorporation of the avocado oil into the chocolate paste obtained at the end of step c); and F. Pouring or molding the chocolate product obtained in step d).

In the steps of the preceding process, the term kneading, the step which aims to obtain a homogeneous paste from sugar, cocoa paste and possibly cocoa butter and milk powder. This step is carried out in a mechanical kneader. The paste obtained must have a particular texture, adapted to the subsequent refining operation. It is possible to adjust it by the choice of the granulometry of the sugar and also by the fat content.

By refining is meant the step of rolling the dough obtained at the kneading output between steel rolls so as to reduce the size of the particles to less than 25 microns. This operation transforms the initial pulp into a fine powder.

Conching is the essential step for modifying the aroma and improving the rheological characteristics of the chocolate. This step can last from a few hours to several days. The refined powder is hot-kneaded, around 75-80 ^° C. in the case of a dark chocolate and around 65 ° C. for the white and milk chocolates.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) By tempering is meant the step to allow crystallization of cocoa butter in stable form. For this, the chocolate paste is brought to a temperature, close to 29 ^° C.

Pouring or molding means the step to obtain the desired shape or pattern for the chocolate. It is directly poured into molds. This is the molding of chocolate. Additional ingredients may be added at this time. The mussels and the chocolate go through a machine called a patting machine which distributes the chocolate in the mold. Finally, it goes into a refrigerated tunnel that instantly cools it.

As explained above, any sweetened food product supplemented with the composition according to the invention, such as chocolate or a chocolate product, can be used as a product containing elements that are beneficial for dental health, in particular by making it possible to limit the appearance of cavities. and strengthen teeth, gums and dental bone.

Example 1

Sugar adjuvant composition

When it is intended to be incorporated in sugar, for example, the composition according to the present invention preferably contains xylitol as adhesion reducing agent of dental biofilm, horsetail as a source of silica, and sage as antiseptic agent. As a rule, the proportions are as follows:

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) Example 2

Chocolate adjuvant composition

When it is intended to be incorporated in chocolate or in a chocolate product, for example, the composition according to the present invention preferably contains xylitol as a reducing agent for adhesion of dental biofilm, horsetail as a source of silica as a mineralizing agent, sage as an antiseptic agent and possibly avocado oil as a reinforcing agent for dental support tissues. As a rule, the proportions are as follows:

For the production of the chocolate or chocolate product containing the food adjuvant composition according to the present invention and the proportions presented in the preceding table, for example, the xylitol, the horsetail and sage powders must be brought to a particle size of 20 microns in order to not be noticeable in the mouth when they are mixed with chocolate.

The following are then implemented in the following order:

Kneading, refining, conching, tempering, incorporation of the adjuvant composition, molding.

The steps of kneading, refining, conching, tempering and molding are defined above in the description and are well known to those skilled in the art

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) in the manufacture of chocolate and chocolate products. The present invention proposes to add a step of incorporating the food adjuvant composition according to the present invention, after the tempering step, into the conventional chocolate manufacturing process.

The introduction of the adjuvant composition should not be done before conching because the temperatures required by it (80 ° C for sucrose) may alter the structure and effectiveness of different products. Indeed at high temperature can be exposed to a polymerization of silicic acid horsetail and alteration of the active ingredients of sage and avocado oil.

Xylitol should not be introduced with sucrose (or the sweetener selected) during the kneading phase as its conching temperature is lower. These temperature rises can lead to disruption of crystalline states by melting xylitol crystals.

By way of example, 1 kg of dark chocolate has been produced containing the food adjuvant composition according to the present invention. For the kneading step, which is also the step of mixing the ingredients to obtain a raw chocolate paste, 300 g of cocoa, 400 g of cocoa butter and 300 g of sugar were mixed. The next step of grinding or refining was carried out by rolling the dough obtained at the kneading output between steel rolls, so as to reduce the size of the particles to less than 25 microns and obtain a much finer and more flexible dough. The conching step was carried out in rotary conches for 24 hours at 80 ^° C. At this stage, it is possible, if appropriate, to add butter or lecithin according to the required fluidity. The tempering step was carried out by lowering the temperature of the mixture from about 50 ^° C. to 18 ° C .; in 10 minutes, with constant stirring. This temperature was kept constant for 10 minutes before heating the mixture until reaching the temperature of 29 ° C. During this heating step, the food adjuvant composition, also prepared according to the proportions given in the previous table and brought to a particle size of less than 20 microns, has been incorporated; 5 g of xylitol + 200 mg of silica extracted from horsetail + 20 mg of sage, mixed and brought to a particle size less than 20 microns were incorporated gradually and with constant stirring during the warming phase described above, until incorporation

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) homogeneous and total by keeping the temperature constant at 29 ° C. At this same temperature, 20 μL of avocado oil was added while keeping the temperature constant at 29 ° C. The molding step was carried out to obtain a chocolate in tablets, using a tapper to distribute the chocolate in the molds and a refrigerated tunnel to cool it instantly. Also as an example, lkg of milk chocolate was made according to the same protocol, however, using the proportions of the following ingredients during the kneading step: 100 g of cocoa + 200 g of cocoa butter + 500 g of sugar + 200 g of powdered milk.

Example 3

Study model of the adhesion reduction of a dental biofilm in vitro.

The study model used to measure the adhesion reduction of a dental biofilm in vitro is a proprietary technique of BioFilm control, BioFilm Ring test®, protected by several patents (FR05 / 00427, FR06 / 00578, FR07 / 50891, FR07 / 55344). The test uses:

- Magnetizable microbeads added to the culture medium of the microorganisms tested (S. mutans); a Test Block where a 96-well plate can be accurately positioned to be tested on 96 magnets. The microbeads are then attracted to the bottom of the well and form a spot, unless a biofilm immobilizes them (no spot); a reader scanning the 96-well plate before and after magnetization;

- a BioFilm Elements® software analyzing the background image of the wells of the 96-well plate to detect or not micro-ball spots. This technique is also described in Chavant et al., J. Microbiol. Meth 68 (2007) 605-612.

Measurement of the adhesion reduction of a S. mutans biofilm in the presence of different concentrations of xylitol in vitro.

A biofilm of S. mutans is formed in BHI medium in different wells of polystryrene microplates. The number of wells inoculated depends on the conditions

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) experimental tests. Each experimental condition is tested in triplicate, ie in three independent wells.

For the preparation of microplate cultures, S. mutans bacteria are spread on a petri dish. From an isolated clone, an overnight preculture (lδ hours) is carried out in Luria Broth medium (LB) at 37 ° C and pH 6 or pH 7. The optical density (OD) of the preculture is then measured, reduced to OD of 1, then diluted by a factor of 250 in a thermostatic culture medium. A sufficient quantity of magnetic beads is added to the dilution (approximately 2μL per well). The dilution of the preculture makes it possible to seed the various wells of the microplates intended for measuring the experimental conditions. Control wells are not inoculated.

After inoculation of the wells with 200 μl of the diluted preculture, different culture conditions are tested to measure the effect of xylitol on the adhesion of the S. mutans biofilm. The effect of several xylitol concentrations between 0.05 and 5% w / v (g / 100mL), in particular 0.1; 0.2; 0.4 0.8 and 5% w / v (g / 10OmL), on the adhesion of the biofilm, is measured after times between 2 and 48 hours of incubation at 37 ° C (pH between 6 and 7). ) compared to the adhesion of the same biofilm in the absence of xylitol (0).

As described in Chavant et al., J. Microbiol. Meth 68 (2007) 605-612, the measurement of the formation or not of micro-spots of magnetic beads at the bottom of each well is indicative of the presence or absence of adherent bacteria and / or a biofilm. Such adherent bacteria prevent the magnetic beads from circulating towards the magnets placed under each well and thus the formation of micro-spots of beads at the bottom of these wells. In contrast, a reduction of the adhesion of these bacteria by xylitol allows the circulation of magnetic beads and the formation of micro-spots of beads.

The measurement of the more or less marked destructuring of the biofilm in the presence of xylitol can also be evaluated by stirring the biofilm formed as above after an incubation time of between 2 and 48 hours in the presence of magnetic microbeads. This agitation is standardized for each microplate of tests using a vortex. The shear caused by the movement of the culture medium during the stirring allows a remobilization of the microbeads related to the reduction of the resistance of the matrix of the biofilm and thus a recording of the destructuration more or less

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) marked biofilm by the release of microbeads and their visualization or not, at the bottom of each well. In other words, these studies make it possible to quantify the resistance to agitation of the biofilm under the different experimental conditions.

These studies thus make it possible to determine in this in vitro model a minimal effective dose (D.E.M.) of xylitol allowing a reduction in the adhesion of the S. mutans biofilm.

Measurement of the adhesion reduction of a S. muton biofilm at different concentrations of xylitol in the presence of different concentrations of sucrose or glucose in vitro.

The protocol for formation and seeding of the S. mutans biofilm in the various wells of polystyrene microplates is identical to that presented in the previous paragraph.

The following experimental conditions make it possible to measure the influence of different concentrations of sucrose on the reduction of adhesion of the biofilm by xylitol. The effect of several concentrations of sucrose or glucose [between 0 and 20% w / v (g / 10OmL), especially 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20%] on the reduction of biofilm adhesion by concentration of xylitol is measured after times of between 2 and 48 hours of incubation at 37 ° C (pH between 6 and 7), compared with the reduction of adhesion of the same biofilm to the same concentration of xylitol in the absence of sucrose or of glucose (0). The effect of sucrose or glucose is tested on the following xylitol concentrations between 0.05 and 5% w / v (g / 10OmL), in particular 0.1; 0.2; 0.4; 0.8 and 5% w / v (g / 10OmL), as previously described, and flanking D.E.M. of xylitol reducing the adhesion of the biofilm.

These different respective doses of sucrose or glucose and xylitol make it possible to measure the reduction of the adhesion of the S. mutans biofilm for different ratios of "sucrose / xylitol" or "glucose / xylitol" concentrations.

As previously mentioned, the measurement of the more or less marked destructuring of the biofilm in the presence of xylitol and sucrose or glucose may also

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) be evaluated by stirring the biofilm formed as above after an incubation time of between 2 and 48 hours in the presence of magnetic microbeads. This agitation is standardized for each microplate of tests using a vortex. The shear caused by the movement of the culture medium during the stirring allows remobilization of the microbeads related to the reduction of the resistance of the biofilm matrix and thus a recording of the more or less marked destructuring of the biofilm by the release of the microbeads and their visualization or not, at the bottom of each well. These studies make it possible to quantify the resistance to agitation of the biofilm under the different experimental conditions.

Labeling of a biofilm by acridine orange and simulation of an increased "support approach" effect following the reduction of biofilm adhesion by xylitol in vitro.

By using fluorescent markers, in particular the orange acridine known for its qualities of labeling cell structures and biofilms traceable in confocal microscopy, it has been possible to visualize the penetration of this fluorescent marker into the biofilm matrix under different conditions. experimental and thus to visualize under these conditions the destructuration of biofilms synonymous with their reduction of adhesion. Labeling of biofilms by acridine orange under the different experimental conditions will be proportional to this breakdown of biofilms.

These experimental conditions include the use of several concentrations of sucrose or glucose [between 0 and 20% w / v (g / 10OmL), particularly 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20%] in the presence of xylitol at levels included between 0.05 and 5% w / v (g / 10OmL), in particular 0.1; 0.2; 0.4; 0.8 and 5% w / v (g / 10OmL), after incubation times of the cells between 2 and 48 hours of incubation at 37 ° C (pH between 6 and 7), compared to conditions of absence of sucrose or glucose and xylitol.

The labeling with acridine orange on cells incubated for a defined time, then washed with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) will be carried out for 5 minutes, for example, with an orange acridine solution at a conventional concentration between

5 and 1000 μg / ml. After marking and washing with PBS, the biofilms will be visualized by a

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) confocal microscope (ZEISS LSM 510 Meta inverted microscope) and quantification of the markings will be performed using appropriate software.

By this approach, it is thus possible to visualize the destructuration of a biofilm by xylitol and thus demonstrate its greater permeability with respect to potential plant active ingredients for the approach of the support on which this biofilm is fixed. This approach thus makes it possible to simulate a measurement of approach of a support by plant active ingredients through a biofilm of S. mutans exhibiting a reduction of adhesion.

Complementary measures in vitro using the crystal violet staining test.

This test, derived from the test published in Musk et al. Chem. Biol. 12 (2005) 789-796, is a colorimetric test which makes it possible to quantify the adherent bacteria, in a biofilm for example, by measuring the crystal violet incorporated by them after successive steps of washing, marking, discoloration and dissolution of the biofilm colored with acetic acid.

Thus, by using a standardized protocol for rinsing biofilms grown under particular experimental conditions, in the presence of xylitol, sucrose and / or plant active principles for example, it is possible to compare the resistance to agitation of these biofilms and therefore the more or less marked destructuring of these in the different experimental conditions described in the preceding paragraph, using xylitol and sucrose or glucose.

Conventionally, this test requires minimal incubation of bacteria for 48 hours in microplate wells. These are then washed by water jet microplate washer to test the resistance of biofilms. They are then stained with a crystal violet solution; as a non-exclusive example, the labeling may be effected by a 0.1% v / v solution in water for 45 minutes. Wells are then rinsed with water to remove excess labeling. The remaining bacteria stained in the different wells are then dissolved by an acetic acid solution; as a non-exclusive example, this solution may be a solution of glacial acetic acid at 33% v / v. After dissolution, the optical density of the solution recovered from each well is measured at 540 nm.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) The values obtained are proportional to the number of adherent bacteria which have resisted rinsing. They thus make it possible to quantify the resistance of biofilms under different experimental conditions.

Measurements of the reduction of adhesion of the biofilm by xylitol in the presence of plant active principles and their synergy, in vitro

The effect of plant active ingredients from horsetail and sage on the reduction of biofilm adhesion is measured by adding these under the experimental conditions of the different tests and approaches used previously. These different tests therefore make it possible to measure, in their presence, in addition to the reduction in adhesion of the biofilm, the resistance to agitation of the latter. Concerning the labeling of the biofilm by acridine orange, as explained in the corresponding paragraph, this test makes it possible to visualize and simulate a measurement of approach of a support by these plant active ingredients through a biofilm of 5 ". a reduction of adhesion.

These different tests make it possible to measure the synergy between the plant active ingredients, in particular horsetail and sage, and the xylitol on the reduction of adhesion of a S. mutans biofilm.

References :

- Bertrand et al. Cahiers de l'ADF, N ° 14-15, ^2nd quarter 2003.

Chavant et al., J. Microbiol. Meth 68 (2007) 605-612.

- Engels-Deutsch et al. The specifications of the ADF, No. 16-17, ^3rd Quarter 2003.

- Musk et al. Chem. Biol. 12 (2005) 789-796.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Claims

claims

1. Food adjuvant composition characterized in that it comprises: a) a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent, b) a mineralizing agent based on silicon and / or calcium-based, c) an antiseptic agent.

2. Composition according to claim 1, characterized in that: a) the agent for reducing the adhesion of the dental biofilm is chosen from the group consisting of: polyols such as xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, erythritol, hydrogenated disacharrides, such as maltitol, lactitol, hydrogenated isomaltulose, cranberry, coffee, chicory, inulin, tea, grapes, raisins, red wine, b) mineralizing agent Silicon base is selected from the group consisting of: silica, plant-derived substances extracted from plants among horsetail, lithotame, alfalfa, soybean, nettle, bamboo or meadowsweet, c) the antiseptic agent is a substance extracted from plants selected from sage, echinacea, myrrh, propolis, ratanhia from Peru, calendula, yam, chamomile, Paloes vera, acerola, sanguinarine, lemon or grapefruit.

3. Composition according to the preceding claims, characterized in that the composition also contains a dental support tissue reinforcing agent chosen from vegetable oils of avocado, evening primrose, borage or soy, or among animal oils. fatty fish containing omega 3 or 6.

4. Composition according to claim 1, characterized in that it contains xylitol as a reducing agent for adhesion of the dental biofilm, horsetail as a mineralizing agent based on silica, sage as an antiseptic agent.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

5. Composition according to claim 4, characterized in that it further contains avocado oil as a reinforcing agent for dental support tissues.

6. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises: a. About 79 to 99 parts by weight, preferably 90 to 96 parts by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent; b. About 0.5 to 19 parts by weight, preferably 2.5 to 10 parts by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent; vs. About 0.2 to 2 parts by weight, preferably 0.4 to 1 parts by weight of an antiseptic agent of vegetable origin such as sage.

7. Composition according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises about 0.2 to 2 parts by weight, preferably 0.4 to 1 part by weight of a dental support tissue reinforcing agent.

8. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7 for use in a food product containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, characterized in that it provides said food product: a. 0.1 to 0.8% by weight, preferably 0.3 to 0.6% by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent; b. 0.005 to 0.02% by weight, preferably 0.01 to 0.02% by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin, such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent; vs. From 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably from 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of an antiseptic agent of vegetable origin such as sage.

9. Composition according to claim 8, characterized in that it additionally provides the food product containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof thereof.

0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of avocado oil as a dental support tissue reinforcing agent.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

10. Food product containing cariogenic free sugars or derivatives thereof, characterized in that it comprises the elements a), b) and c) of the composition as defined in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. Food product according to claim 10, characterized in that it further comprises from 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of a dental support fabric reinforcing agent selected from oils avocado, evening primrose, borage or soy, or among fatty fish oils containing omega 3 or 6.

12. Food product according to claims 10 and 11, selected from sugar, confectionery, such as cocoa or chocolate-based products including chocolate, chocolate bars or chocolate spreads, gum chewing, bakery or topping decorating products; dairy products, such as milk drinks, fermented or renneted milk products, condensed milks, milk desserts; sherbets or ice creams; fruit-based products, such as jams, jellies, marmalades, fruit-based spreads, candied fruits, pulps, purees, toppings made from fruit or coconut milk, fruit-based desserts ; cereals and cereal products; baked goods, such as pancakes and cakes; sweeteners, including honey; preparations for infants, young children, young children or intended for medical or dietary use; drug coatings; beverages such as fruit or vegetable juices, nectars, flavored water-based drinks, sodas, coffee or substitutes, teas or infusions; dietetic foods; food supplements ; condiments such as mustard or ketchup; soups or soups; cooked or semi-cooked dishes; frozen or composite foods.

13. Chocolate or chocolate product characterized in that it contains: a. 0.1 to 0.8% by weight, preferably 0.3 to 0.6% by weight of xylitol as a dental biofilm adhesion reducing agent; b. 0.005 to 0.02% by weight, preferably 0.01 to 0.02% by weight of silica or a source of silica of plant origin, such as horsetail as a remineralizing agent;

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) vs. 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably from 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of an antiseptic ^agent tei vegetable origin as sage.

14. Chocolate or chocolate product according to claim 13, characterized in that it additionally contains from 0.001 to 0.01% by weight, preferably 0.002 to 0.003% by weight of avocado oil, as fabric-reinforcing agent. dental support.

15. A method of manufacturing chocolate according to claims 13 or 14, characterized in that it comprises the following sequence of steps: a. Mixing powders of xylitol, horsetail and sage; b. Grinding of the mixture obtained in step a), preferably until a particle size less than or equal to 20 μm is obtained; vs. Performing kneading, refining, conching, tempering operations from cocoa paste, sugar, and possibly cocoa butter and milk powder; d. Incorporation of the powdery mixture obtained in step b) into the chocolate paste obtained at the end of step c); e. Incidentally, incorporation of the avocado oil into the chocolate paste obtained at the end of step c); and F. Pouring or molding the chocolate product obtained in step d).

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)