How Two Farmers Created FenFiber

Cal Kelly and Blaine Sudom are third-generation farmers devoted to their love of the land and the role they can play in improving peoples’ health. “As growers, we have the ability to introduce new crops that can have a positive impact on people’s health,” Blaine told us. One of these crops was fenugreek, a plant renowned in ayurvedic medicine for treament of diabetes and high cholesterol.

Based on their research, Blaine and Cal found that many of the healthful properties in fenugreek could be attributed to the completely unique chemical structure of fenugreek fiber, a galactomannan with a one-to-one ratio of galactose to mannan. This prevented its breakdown in the digestive tract, delaying glucose absorption and lowering glycemic response to foods. “We were completely astonished by the rare qualities of fenugreek fiber,” recalls Cal . “Compared to other common fiber products, such as psyllium or inulin, it is extremely soluble but also very stable, causing it to be a much more effective fiber.”

That inspired Blaine and Cal to create a fiber supplement from fenugreek called Fenfiber. After working with scientists and nutrition experts, they experimented with multiple purification methods before finally creating a water-based extraction technique. “Other fiber products are extracted using harsh solvents and rollers. Then the final product is mixed with sugar or artificial sweeteners, artificial colors and artificial flavors. That, to us, is not truly healthful,” explains Blaine. “We wanted to create a great fiber supplement that was both extremely effective and free of additives. In the end, we are so gratified by the number of people who tell us they use and love Fenfiber."