Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North America EU edition

Folic acid effects two-faced depending on B12 levels, says study

The effects of increased folic acid intake amongst the elderly may be a double-edged sword, with benefits and harm dependent on the person's vitamin B12 levels, says a new study.

NY State dietary supplements safety committee proposed

A second bill pertaining to dietary supplements has been introduced at both levels of the New York State legislature, signifying political efforts to change current regulations are in fact serious.

Omega-3 and joint health - more support

Daily high-dose omega-3 supplements were found to decrease the severity of symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic disease that mainly affects joints of the spine and hips.

The Solae Company solidifies position in China

The Solae Company has strengthened its soy protein reach in Asia with the unveiling of a new manufacturing facility in China.

CLA studies on mice and rats yield different results

Two Ohio State University studies involving CLA fed to mice and rats are reported to have brought about diverging results that suggest opposing potential effects in humans. However, it is generally accepted that humans react physiologically more like rats - lending credence to the more positive of the two studies.

Health Enhancement Products looks to bring its algae to pharma

Health Enhancement Products (HEP) is creating a new division to pursuepharmaceutical applications for its algae-derived ProAlgaZyme.

Cortislim developer to launch new weight loss product

The developer of weight loss supplement CortiSlim is preparing to launch a new product called Citricoma - a blend of polymethoxylated flavones and eurycoma longifolia - and has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with HP Ingredients for its distribution.

DSM publishes fungus genome to help R&D into enzymes

Netherlands-based DSM has announced the publication of the full genome for the fungus Aspergillus niger used to produce a range of enzymes and other compounds for the food industry.

Neptune sees increase in sales as NKO gains recognition

Neptune Technologies & Bioressources's efforts to spread the word about Neptune Krill Oil and an internal reorganisation are paying off, as the Canadian manufacturer has reported a significant increase in sales and a decrease in operating loss for the second quarter of 2007.

Magnesium for teenagers may boost bone health

Magnesium supplements during adolescence, a key time for bone formation, boosted bone health in 120 girls in the US - research that suggests the mineral could have long-term benefits.

Flavones and flavonols linked to lower kidney cancer risk

Increased intake of flavonoids, particularly, flavones and flavonols could cut the risk of kidney cancer by 32 and 31 per cent, respectively, says a new study from Italy.

Korean companies pair up to deliver CZ

Two Korean companies, Eugene Science and RexGene Biotech, have entered into a contract to develop, produce and market a new supplement containing Eugene Science's proprietary cholesterol-lowering ingredient CZ in their own country following the success the technology has had abroad.

Weekly comment

Deja Moo: Are we ready for cloned cattle?

Here we go again. Yet another technology in its infancy is likely to be introduced into the food supply, while industry remains cautious and consumers divided.

Vitamin D optimises bone density with bisphosphonates

Vitamin D supplements to raise blood levels of the vitamin could optimise the effects of bisphosphonates to maintain and improve bone density in post-menopausal women, says a new study.

Doctors far from talking herbals to patients, survey

Another survey has highlighted a need for better communication between consumers and their physicians over the use of herbal supplements.

The Vitamin Shoppe calls for independent testing procedures

Following the withdrawal of its women's multivitamin product - as a result of allegations of high lead content by ConsumerLab.com - the Vitamin Shoppe has expressed both its desire to get to the truth of the matter and for industry to devise new testing methods.

New Scientist questions personalised nutrition testing

Companies offering personalised nutrition testing are jumping the gun because the science behind nutrigenomics is not enough to support the claims, says an article in New Scientist.

Phyto-Source faces increased phytosterol demand

Demand for plant sterol ingredients continues to grown according to manufacturer Phyto-Source, who has announced it is clearing up production bottlenecks to make room for more supply.

Folic acid linked to reduced cleft lip in infants

Folic acid supplements during early pregnancy could reduce the risk of cleft lip in infants by 33 per cent, says a new study from Norway.

Caffeine encapsulation could turn donuts into energy foods

Caffeine has long been a mainstay of energy drinks, but a new technique from a Colorado-based energy see the emergence of a new category of baked energy foods.

Calcium, vit. D may help cholesterol levels during weight loss

A combination of calcium plus vitamin D during weight loss in overweight and obese women could improve blood cholesterol levels, says new research from Canada.

Fibre could halve young women's breast cancer risk, says study

Pre-menopausal women who eat 30 or more grams of fibre a day could cut their risk of breast cancer by 52 per cent, says a UK-based epidemiological study.

Yogurt drinks are leading food and beverage product, ACNielsen

ACNielsen has shone the spotlight on drinkable yogurt as the fastest growing food and beverage product, findings that may inspire healthy ingredient manufacturers to more aggressively target this functional beverage format.

Looking to invest in Chinese forest frog ingredients?

It's not yet April Fool's Day, but when we heard about a letter of intent between a Nevada ink-jet cartridge retailer and a Chinese forest frog breeder for nutraceutical ingredients, we couldn't help but wonder - is someone pulling our, ahem, frog's legs?

Vitamins C and E linked to lower kidney cancer risk

Increased intake of the antioxidant vitamins C and E could cut the risk of kidney cancer by 28 and 44 per cent, respectively, says a new study from Italy.

Scientists explore targeted future for pro-, prebiotics

University of Leeds scientists are giving an insight into a possible future of pro and prebiotics with GM probiotic bacteria that can stimulate the immune system when 'switched on' by specific prebiotic sugar.

Finnish Valio to supply Dannon's probiotic LGG

Finnish dairy company Valio has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with the Dannon Company for use of its technology and proprietary probiotic culture Lactobacillus GG (LGG), as the North American dairy giant fills its probiotic pipeline with additional products.

Vitamin Shoppe-ConsumerLab.com row stirs self-regulation debate

The Vitamin Shoppe has announced the withdrawal of its women's multivitamin product from store and online sale while it investigates the cause of allegedly high lead content from ConsumerLab.com.

Prevention, nutricosmetics show vitamin B potential

Preventative health care trends are driving the US vitamin B market, but niche areas like nutricosmetics and anti-ageing skin creams could form part of a successful differentiation strategy for the future, according to a new report from Frost and Sullivan.

BASF builds bioavailability data behind Solu Q10

Germany-based BASF has reported that its solubilizate co-enzyme Q10, Solu Q10, has excellent bioavailability, compared to a small number of other delivery forms for the nutrient.

Yerba mate could be a polphenol plus for beverages

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign are looking to target antioxidant properties from Mate tea for use as functional beverage ingredients.

Prime Nutrisource averts reflux with scentless softgel

Canadian manufacturer Prime Nutrisource has developed a proprietary capsule technology it calls a "scentless softgel", designed to entirely mask the negative smell and flavor of some dietary supplement ingredients.

Atrium to deliver AquaCap technology to more clients

Atrium Biotechnologies has acquired AquaCap Pharmaceutical, a developer and manufacturer of liquid filled capsules, and intends to deliver the novel technology to more dietary supplement formulators.

Selenium pills may slow HIV progression, says study

Daily selenium supplements, in combination with traditional anti-retroviral therapy, may control the viral load associated with HIV and boost the numbers of immune cells, says research.

Health Sciences sets stage for re-brand with Kalahari deal

Health Sciences Group has sealed a deal to buy Kalahari specialty tea and food company, thereby finalizing its first move into branded finished products.

Dannon extends US probiotic line on heels of Activia success

Probiotic marketing trailblazer, The Dannon Company, has announced the expansion of its portfolio in the United States following the success its Activia yogurt.

Reviews highlight infants' need for zinc, iron

Young children may be at risk of iron and zinc deficiencies as they are weaned off milk or formula, according to two reports that may highlight opportunities in products formulated to meet the nutritional needs of older infants.

Weekly Comment

Death to the industry conspiracy theories!

Here we go again. Industry-sponsored studies into the nutritional benefits of food and drink products are biased. Don't believe anything that has an industry sponsor.

Caffeine may halve pain after exercise - study

Having a caffeine supplement, equivalent to about two cups of coffee, an hour before exercise may reduce muscle pain afterwards by 48 per cent, says researchers.

Folic acid may slow cognitive decline in old age

Older people taking folic acid supplementation had improved memory and ability to process information, as well as a slower rate of age-related cognitive decline, says a study from the Netherlands.

Guest article

Preparing for impending USPTO rule changes

The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) may soon implement procedural changes that are likely to create added pressure on IP budgets and internal resources beginning in 2007. Is your company prepared?

Yeast encapsulation to mask bad taste of polyphenols?

Using simple brewers yeast to encapsulate polyphenols could mask the unpleasant flavour and boost stability of water-soluble antioxidants, says new research.

Cognis builds science-backed platform for 'Newtrition' campaign

Cognis is looking to tailor a competitive edge for its branded ingredients by combining them under one platform designed to push their scientific basis, as well as any health claims they may hold, for dietary supplements and functional foods worldwide.

Nutrition to halt Alzheimer's gets boost - in fruit flies

Oxidative stress associated with dementia may be a cause and not an effect of Alzheimer's, suggests a study with fruit flies from the US.

Could simple apple pieces be probiotic carriers?

Simple apple pieces may be a simple and inexpensive method of supporting probiotics, as well as expanding the range of applications, suggests new research from Greece.

Women legislators back supplements for schools

The nutrition supplement industry has received formal support from the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL) in the form of a resolution recommending local governments to provide dietary supplements to children.

Labelling bill pushed in New York state

A bill calling for dietary supplements to be explicitly labeled as not having been tested by the US Food & Drug Administration has been introduced at both levels of the New York state legislature.

Arthroleve formulation patent filed

University Lab Technologies has filed a patent for its product Arthroleve, in the first of several said for products in its pipeline.

Omega-3-rich walnuts linked to improved bone health

Consuming food rich in the plant omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) like walnuts and flaxseed oil improved bone health, according to a small trial from the US.

Eugene Science aims to take phytosterols to fattier foods

Korean biotech Eugene Science is building up its patent store for a plant sterol manufacturing process using nano molecules and particles that it says is especially useful for fat-soluble formulations.

UHT treatment may reduce cholesterol-lowering effects of soy

Ultra high temperature (UHT) processing of soy beverages may result in products that actually raise LDL-cholesterol levels, according to new research from NutriPharma.

Cognition test technology gains US patent

Australian software company CogState has been granted a US patent for the technology behind its brain function tests, which are used by supplement, food and other companies to assess the potential benefits of products on cognitive function.

Calcium offers prolonged protection from colorectal cancer, says study

The potential protective effects of calcium supplements against colorectal cancer may carry on for five years after people stop taking the supplements, research has revealed.

Jamieson to distribute Dermylex across Canada

Jamieson Laboratories, a leading manufacturer of natural health products in Canada, has upped distribution of Advitech's psoriasis nutraceutical Dermylex from six pharmacies to 2000 across the country since November, and is eyeing opportunities across the border.

Tomato plus broccoli - added benefits for prostates?

Tomatoes and broccoli, independently known for their anti-cancer benefits, may have an extra effect against prostate cancer when both are part of the daily diet than when they're eaten alone, if results from an animal study can be replicated in humans.

Supplements book draws fierce response from industry

A newly published book has incited backlash from trade associations within the dietary supplements industry for its critical portrayal of regulatory controls and safety. In the past, the industry's respectable face has worked hard to distance itself from less legitimate factions.

Nestlé reports good safety data for symbiotics in infant formula

Formula containing both pro- and prebiotics is well tolerated and may have added benefits on weight gain in infants, says a new study sponsored by Nestlé.

BioCell launches wasabia-derived i-Sabi

BioCell Technology has launched a proprietary wasabi ingredient - i-Sabi - set to appear in dietary supplements on retail shelves as early as March 2007.

FDA expands use of 'lean' label for convenience foods

A number of convenience meal products will now be able to carry a 'lean' nutritional claim, after the US Food and Drug Administration expanded the use of the term.

7UP changes label to avoid misleading 'natural' claims

Cadbury Schweppes is to change the labeling on its 7UP product following a fierce debate on the validity of new 'all natural' claims.

Healthy bones not just about calcium, says GTC

Many American women are unaware of calcium absorption issues, warns GTC Nutrition, indicating that more education is needed on nutritional measures to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Meta-analysis supports isoflavones for hot flushes

Supplementation of soy isoflavones to ease the symptoms of the menopause like hot flushes does have an effect, according to a meta-analysis from Australian researchers.

Cloudy apple juice four times healthier than clear

The polyphenol content of cloudy apple juice is four times greater than clear juice, says new research that could see a shift in consumer preference from clear to cloudy.

Weekly Comment

There aren't plenty more fish in the sea

As a youngster I was brought up on a healthy diet of tuna fish sandwiches and Disney - making my new year's resolution for 2007 the toughest yet. That's right, I'm giving up tuna and who knows, even cod.

Ajinomoto, Pharmachem team up for custom amino acids

Japanese amino acid manufacturer Ajinomoto is partnering up with Pharmachem to offer solutions to US customers that meet their specific needs.

Experts call for vitamin D level hike

The tolerable upper intake level for oral vitamin D3 should be increased five-fold, experts from the US-based Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has said after a review of the science.

Plum polyphenols to offer osteoporosis benefits?

Researchers in Florida are undertaking a clinical trial to test the role of dried plums in the bone health of postmenopausal women, research that has the potential to offer opportunities for functional food and supplement makers.

Unigen completes Univestin US patent picture

Unigen has been awarded a new patent on the use of free-b-ring flavonoids from Chinese Skullcap, adding value for customers using its Univestin ingredient in joint health products.

Obesity - breakfast research points to new opportunities

Skipping breakfast and eating more fast food have again been shown to lead to overweight in late teenage years.

Martek amends SemBioSys deal for flexibility in plant DHA

Martek Biosciences is extending its options in the competitive plant-derived omega-3 market, amending its agreement with SemBioSys from safflower to a traditional commodity crop as well.

Scientists report novel delivery system for SOD

Scientists in Georgia have reported successful lab tests of new polymer microparticles that show promise as a novel delivery system for the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD).

Glyceollins from soybeans may stop breast cancer cell growth

A compound produced by specially grown soybeans may prove to be successful in the prevention the growth and/or spread of breast cancer, says a new study.

SourceOne rebrands Tongkat Ali to avert sexual health stigma

SourceOne is rebranding its proprietary blend of herbal Tongkat Ali for a more mainstream uses beyond the sexual enhancement and bodybuilding supplement markets.

ARS updates flavonoids in food database

The USDA's ARS has announced the update of its Database for the Flavonoid Content of Selected Foods, giving values of 26 flavonoids in 393 foods.

Supplement demand leads to L-glutamine shortage, says Kyowa Hakko

Demand for L-glutamine has increased at the same time as supply has tightened - according to Kyowa Hakko, which claims to be the only domestic US manufacturer of the amino acid.

Neptune tackles dyslipidemia in risk-benefit analysis

Neptune Technologies & Bioressources is undertaking a population-based risk-benefit analysis for its proprietary Neptune krill oil (NKO) and the management of dyslipidemia.

Chromium picolinate plus biotin may help diabetes control

A daily supplement of chromium picolinate and biotin improved glucose tolerance by 15 per cent, compared to placebo, says a new study from Yale University.

Probiotics improved colic in babies, says study

A daily probiotic dose of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri improved symptoms associated with infantile colic, says a new study from Italy.

US drinks not delivering enough nutrients, study

While more and more beverages are fortified, it would appear Americans are still not deriving nutritional benefit from their drinks in line with their calorie intake from these goods.

US gets nearly 1/4 daily calories from drinks, report

The results of a recent study on US beverage consumption could highlight opportunities for functional beverage marketers to inject more value-added beverages into a market that has become increasingly saturated with calorie-laden soft drinks.

Milk in tea may hamper heart health benefits

The British way of drinking tea with milk may block the cardiovascular benefits of the catechins, according to a small study that highlights the need for nutrition studies to consider confounding factors from the surrounding food matrix.

Canadian BioExx to take proprietary extraction process abroad

Lifesciences Capital Corporation is set to finance Canadian Bio-Extraction's proposed expansion into the United States and Europe, where the fledging bio-extractor hopes to make inroads with a proprietary process that allows for an optimum recovery of proteins and lipids.

Health freedom group urges less FDA regulation

The American Association for Health Freedom (AAHF) has recommended the United States Food & Drug Administration create better definitions or adapt existing regulations on functional foods, and not create new regulations that could ultimately reduce consumer choice or information.

Higher folate levels linked to lower Alzheimer's risk

An increased intake of folate by diet and supplements may halve the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, suggests new research from the US.

FDA to simplify calcium-osteoporosis health claim, add Vitamin D

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to simplify health claims for osteoporosis risk reduction for foods and dietary supplements and to extend the scope from calcium to include vitamin D as well.

Obese Chinese a new market for US weight loss supplements

The Chinese weight loss market is set to bulge and Astor Ridge Nutrition is looking to take a slice out this with its weight loss supplement Zylorin.

Lycopene microcapsules for milk's vitamin protection

Lycopene, microencapsulated in gum arabic-sucrose capsules, slowed the degradation of vitamins A and D3 in skimmed milk by 45 per cent, says new research.

Olive oil linked to lower blood pressure

Moderate intake of olive oil, a mainstay of the Mediterranean diet, was successful in reducing the blood pressure of healthy men who don't usually eat a Med-type diet, suggests a new study.

Implementing adverse events reporting begins, UNPA

With the recent signing into law of the adverse events reporting bill by President Bush, many dietary supplement manufacturers will need to begin implementing or changing their reporting practices within the upcoming year before the legislation comes into effect.

Could astaxanthin score a goal in sports nutrition?

Astavita's inroads into sports nutrition applications for astaxanthin could be of interest to sports nutrition formulators looking to branch into this market.

Neptune strenghens cognitive platform with ADHD trial

Neptune Technologies & Bioressources is currently designing a large scale cognitive study on its proprietary Neptune Krill Oil, following positive results in a recent clinical study on the marine-derived ingredient and adult ADHD.

Nutricosmetics industry targets ethnic consumer

The ethnic consumer is the newest niche market to be targeted by the growing nutricosmetic trend, following the launch of a new dietary supplement aimed at hair care for African American women.

Combination supplement may support weight management

A combination of catechins, caffeine, capsaicin and tyrosine were found to boost heat generation and energy expenditure without any adverse effects on blood pressure or heart rate, says a new study from Denmark.

Beta-carotene status dependent on total antioxidants

The blood levels of beta-carotene are tied to the total level of antioxidants, not solely to the carotenoid itself, says a new study that may help explain discrepancies in the science about the nutrient.

Ocean Nutrition researches marine carotenoids, CoQ10

Ocean Nutrition Canada (ONC) is looking beyond its current focus of omega-3 ingredients, investigating marine microbial species to produce carotenoids and co-enzyme Q10.

Whole fat milk linked to lower weight gain

Women who regularly consumed at least one serving of full-fat diary every day gained about 30 per cent less weight than women who didn't, says a study from Sweden.

AOAC testing method for chondroitin sulfate inches closer to completion

A single laboratory validation of a method for quantifying chondroitin sulfate in dietary supplement ingredients has been completed in California, bringing it one step closer to becoming an AOAC official testing method for the ingredient.

TV's influence on eating habits re-examined

Watching television, eating family meals and the safety of the neighborhood all play a role in children's weight, according to researchers at the University of Missouri.

FTC sends stark new year message on weight loss claims

The Federal Trade Commission announced settlements totalling $25mn with four well-known weight-loss pill marketers, sending out another warning to companies making unsubstantiated claims to consumers.

Healthy trans fat oil developed?

University of Arkansas researchers have developed a trans fat oil that they claim could have health benefits.

Astavita gears astaxanthin to sports nutrition

Astavita's announcement of a sponsorship agreement with United States Triathlon has the company making inroads with astaxanthin into the sports nutrition market.

Folic acid may prevent age-related hearing loss

Supplements of folic acid may prevent age-related hearing loss in older men and women, says a new double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial from the Netherlands.

More support for beta-glucan's anti-diabetes benefits

Increasing the intake of the soluble fibre beta-glucan decreased the glucose and insulin response in overweight men, and could help reduce the risk of diabetes, says a new study.

Blue California unveils new water soluble phytosterol

Blue California is launching 40 percent micro-encapsulated phytosterols, taking advantage of a burgeoning market for cholesterol-lowering products that is driving the market for heart healthy ingredients.

Prebiotics could reduce artery hardening, boost heart health

Dietary supplementation with the prebiotics inulin and oligofructose reduced the build up of fatty plaques associated with atherosclerosis, reports an animal study from France.

Multivitamins could boost birth weight for kids of undernourished women

A multivitamin and mineral supplement boosted the birth weight of children born to undernourished women, says a trial from India, results that could have lifelong implications for the offspring.

First round of herbal validation takes place in Western Canada

British Columbia Institute of Technology's Natural Health Products Research Group has announced the completion of the first round of its natural health products analytical laboratory proficiency program using the herbal goldenseal.

Merical Vita-Pak and B&C to merge

Merical Vita-Pak and B&C Nutritional Products have announced a plan to merge and form an integrated company that will deliver cost and lead time benefits to customers.

President Bush signs adverse events bill into law

President Bush has signed the Dietary Supplement and Non-Prescription Drug Consumer Protection Act, thereby setting in stone legislation which will require manufacturers to notify the Food and Drug Administration of all serious adverse events for dietary supplements.