Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North AmericaEU edition

Maternal omega-3 reduces eczema risk in children: Study

Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy could cut the risk of babies developing eczema and egg allergies by over a third, say researchers

KGK and SourceOne settle three-year IP dispute over heart-healthy ingredients

Both parties in a protracted dispute over heart-healthy ingredients and intellectual property rights claim to have emerged from a new settlement with “valid and enforceable” patents covering their products.

Nawgan founder: ‘Our ambition is to become the most relevant brand in the world.’

The neuropsychologist behind brain-friendly functional beverage Nawgan says he is on a mission to turn it into “the most relevant brand in the world”.

News in brief

AHPA helps trade differentiate ‘true’ star anise from toxic Japanese variety

The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) has added analytical methods for the identification of star anise fruit (Illicium verum) to its Botanical Authentication Program to help firms distinguish it from the fruit of other Illicium species that are toxic, such as Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum).

January in pictures: Dr Oz, spiking, cGMPs, krill oil and kiwi fruit

So much for easing gently into the New Year. Just days into 2012, the supplements trade was wrestling with a big spiking story on Dr Oz, more difficult questions about DMAA and calls for even tougher NDI guidance…

Just a matter of time before canola protein enters the major league, says BioExx

"At least 12 major players in the food industry" are testing canola protein from BioExx, while a tie up with Century Foods to develop canola-protein-based sports products is also progressing well, claims the veggie protein specialist.

Selenium yeast may reduce joint inflammation: Rodent data

Supplementing the diet with selenium-enriched yeast may reduce inflammation linked to arthritis, suggests new research from Brazil.

Infusion technique could produce nutraceutical-enhanced fruit products

Scientists in Canada have developed a technique to infuse fruit with nutraceuticals, potentially offering ‘nutritionally superior fruit products’.

Cardio-friendly foods biggest opportunity for vitamin K2, predicts NattoPharma

Heart healthy functional foods – particularly dairy and butter/margarine – represent the biggest growth opportunity for natural vitamin K2, according to NattoPharma chief executive Peter Carlsson.

Grape seed extract shows cancer promise: Mouse study

Polyphenol rich extracts from grape seeds could help to fight of cancers of the head and neck whilst leaving healthy cells unharmed, according to the findings of a ‘dramatic’ new animal study.

News in brief

BASF & Teck join forces on zinc fortification and supplementation solutions

BASF (Germany) and Teck Resources Limited (Canada) have signed a three year agreement to jointly develop innovative and affordable zinc fortification and supplementation solutions.

Harvard professor: ‘NDI draft guidance doesn’t go far enough’

It might have been roundly slammed by the trade as draconian and unworkable, but according to one academic, the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) controversial draft guidance on new dietary ingredients (NDIs) does not go far enough.

FTC settles six more cases in crackdown on bogus acai weight loss claims

Six online marketers accused of using ‘fake news’ sites to peddle bogus weight loss claims about acai berry supplements have agreed to settlements with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that will permanently halt their allegedly deceptive practices.

Fermented soy’s fat busting potential linked to genes

The ability of a fermented soy product to reduce body fat levels may be linked to a person’s genetics, says a new study from South Korea.

Green tea may reduce functional disability risk: Study

Consuming at least five cups of green tea per day may reduce the risk of functional disabilities like osteoporosis and stroke, suggests new data from Japan.

New standard for vitamin D test promises more accurate results

Researchers have unveiled the development of new and ‘much-needed’ reference methodolgy that promises to assure more accurate and reliable measurements of vitamin D status.

Abbott forecasts strong growth for nutritionals business in 2012

Chicago-based healthcare giant Abbott has regained all of the market share it lost following its 2010 recall of Similac infant formula products and says its nutritionals business is set to grow in the high single digits in 2012.

Aged garlic reduces cold and flu severity: RCT data

Supplements of an aged garlic extract may reduce the number of days a person suffers from cold and ‘flu by 61%, says data from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Study unlocks Pycnogenol’s skin health mechanism

Daily supplements of an extract from French maritime pine bark may boost skin elasticity by 25% and skin hydration by 8%, says a new study.

13% of academics admit knowledge of data falsification: BMJ

Just days after the nutrition science world was rocked by allegations that a famed veteran resveratrol researcher fabricated data in 26 articles over seven years, a British Medical Journal survey reveals the practice is disturbingly widespread.

News in brief

Nutraveris establishes NJ office to bridge US-EU divide

US companies seeking to expand into Europe should focus on the solutions and not the problems of the EU market to ensure success, says the CEO of a leading European scientific & regulatory consultancy.

NutraJobs: People on the move, January 2012

New year, new start, new job? For the latest round-up of movers and shakers in the nutra industry, check out our picture gallery, with updates from ChromaDex, NOW Foods, Sabinsa, Captek Softgel International and Health Wright Products.

News in brief

Glanbia Nutritionals to distribute pTeroPure in North America for ChromaDex

ChromaDex has signed a letter of intent with Glanbia Nutritionals that will see the latter serve as the primary distributor of ChromaDex’s branded antioxidant pTeroPure in North America.

Exclusive interview: Paul Gilner, chief executive, Life Extension

Life Extension CEO: ‘I just hope the trade isn’t hogtied and handcuffed by unnecessary regulation’

While cynics might raise an eyebrow at the Life Extension Foundation’s ambitious mission statement (“to conquer the aging process within the next decade”), bosses at its supplement arm have every reason to feel optimistic, CEO Paul Gilner tells Elaine Watson

Fiber may boost pancreatic health: Study

Increased intakes of fiber may reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer by 60%; with both soluble and insoluble forms offering benefits, suggests a new study from Italy.

Study supports potential anti-cancer effects of selenium-enriched yeast

Selenium enrichment of yeast changes the expression of certain proteins in the organism, five of which have reported anti-cancer effects, says a new study from Penn State.

‘There are more infringing companies out there’, says lawyer in latest beta-alanine patent lawsuits

The three firms that have now been hit with a patent infringement lawsuit filed by Natural Alternatives International (NAI) are not the only ones allegedly infringing NAI’s newly-granted patent regarding sports nutrition ingredient beta-alanine, claims a lawyer acting for NAI.

Cocoa may prevent intestinal disease: Rat study

Eating cocoa could help to prevent intestinal disease and complaints linked to oxidative stress, including colon cancer caused by chemical substances, suggests new research in rats.

Danisco acquisition provides bright spot for DuPont in 2011

DuPont benefited from last year’s acquisition of Danish specialty food ingredient company Danisco in the fourth quarter of 2011, as revenue more than doubled in its nutrition and health business – although the chemical group’s overall profit fell slightly.

News in brief

Kalsec names South African distributor for ingredients portfolio

Michigan’s Kalsec Inc has names Orkila as the exclusive South African distributor for its full line of spice and herb extracts, natural colors and antioxidants for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.

CoQ10 may enhance anti-inflammatory potential of Med diet

Supplementing a Mediterranean-style diet with co-enzyme Q10 may reduce markers of inflammation and improve a range of health measures, including heart and joint health.

NPF: Many ignorant of disease/drug claim rules and where testimonials fit in

A surprising numbers of companies contacted by the Natural Products Foundation (NPF) about unauthorized disease or drug claims on supplements are unaware that they are breaking the law, according to NPF executive director Deb Knowles.

cGMP compliance, time bombs and the ‘ten-ton elephant in the room’

An analysis of recent Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning letters has exposed several ‘ten ton elephants in the room’ and ‘time bombs waiting to go off’ when it comes to cGMP (current good manufacturing practice) compliance, according to one leading testing lab.

Pomegranate oil-seaweed combo's weight management action pinpointed?

A blend of pomegranate seed oil and brown seaweed extract may offer weight management potential by acting directly on fat cells, says new study using the commercially available Xanthigen ingredient.

Sugar coated probiotics have increased survival and can reduce infection: Study

A sugary outer coating produced by probiotic bacteria could help them to survive in the good and may also offer clues to how they block some bacterial infections, say researchers.

Idaho judge fines firms selling ‘synthetic steroids masquerading as dietary supplements’

Two firms found guilty of selling muscle building supplements laced with unapproved drugs have been fined by a federal court in Idaho.

Resveratrol: Pilot study supports cardio-metabolic benefits

Daily supplements of resveratrol for one month may improve sensitivity to insulin and reduce the spike in blood sugar after a meal, suggest new data from a pilot human trial.

More fiber may reduce breast cancer risk: Meta-analysis

Higher intakes of soluble fiber, but not other types of fiber, may reduce the risk of breast cancer, suggest findings from a meta-analysis from Imperial College, London and the University of Leeds.

Lunasin-packed powder will revitalize soy protein shake market, says Reliv

A nutritional shake containing LunaRich – a novel whole soy powder boasting “five to ten times more lunasin than the industry standard” – will be launched next month by Reliv International.

Multi-biomarker approach demonstrates flavanol cardio benefits: Study

An eight-week study of monomeric and oligomeric flavanols (MOPs) employing a “multi-biomarker approach” in a healthy population of smokers has shown cardiovascular benefits.

CRN: There should not be a ‘trial by the press’ on DMAA

There should not be a ‘trial by the press’ on the controversial stimulant DMAA (1,3-Dimethylamylamine), says the Council for Responsible Nutrition (USA).

Soy protein shows brain boosting benefits: Human data

Peptides from soybeans may influence the immune system and hormones linked to emotion, and ultimately boost brain function, according to a new Sino-Japanese study.

Purdue meta-analysis supports ‘modest’ weight management benefits of capsaicin

Capsaicin, the main pungent compound in hot peppers, and capsiates, non-pungent compounds in sweet peppers, show ‘modest’ weight management potential, says a new meta-analysis from Purdue University.

‘Water apple’ extract may provide dietary support for diabetes

Extracts of a Malaysian medicinal plant known locally as the ‘water jambu’ or ‘water apple’ could provide bioactive compounds that help to support people suffering from diabetes by reducing lowering blood sugar levels, suggest researchers.

Schiff and Aker file motion to stay Neptune patent infringement lawsuit

Schiff Nutrition International, Aker BioMarine ASA and its US subsidiary Aker BioMarine Antarctic USA have filed a motion to stay a patent infringement lawsuit filed against them by Aker’s arch rival Neptune Technologies & Bioressources.

‘Shocking and disturbing’ spiking findings on Dr Oz show must be addressed, warns expert

The supplement trade must do more to combat the threat of spiking with unauthorized drugs or its critics will seize upon data unveiled on the Dr Oz show this week as further evidence that the industry is under-regulated, experts have warned.

Research unravels mechanisms of beneficial components in red wine

Both the alcoholic and non-alcoholic compounds in red wine have separate and potentially beneficial or protective effects that could reduce the risk of heart disease, say researchers.

News in brief

Low dose omega-3 supplements show (minor) benefits in overweight people

Daily supplements of omega-3 fatty acids increased levels of a hormone linked to diabetes, but had no effect on inflammation in overweight people, says a new study from Denmark.

Magnesium may reduce stroke risk: Meta-analysis

Increased intakes of magnesium in the diet may reduce the risk of stroke, says a new meta-analysis from Sweden.

Chinese herbal flavonoid shows hangover busting potential

A flavonoid from the Chinese herb Hovenia dulcis may counter the detrimental effects of alcohol consumption and offer a potential hangover supplement, suggests new research from UCLA.

Lipozene weight loss class action reignites konjac efficacy debate

A class action complaint has been filed in California alleging that the maker of Lipozene weight loss supplements - which contain glucomannan from konjac root – is making false and misleading claims about their efficacy.

Study: “Geranium oils do not contain DMAA-MHA”

Geranium oils do not contain the stimulant DMAA-MHA, according to new research that once again questions the study often cited by pre-workout and weight loss supplements claiming it does.

Mate extract may slash body fat levels, says Frutarom study

An extract from green mate may help reduce body fat more than placebo, according to new results from a randomized placebo-controlled human study.

Oily fish during pregnancy shows immune boosting potential for infants

Consuming a couple of servings of salmon per week during the third trimester of pregnancy may influence immune system health in the infants, says a new study.

AlgaeBio aims for spring launch of novel algal EPA/DHA oils

Algae Biosciences Corporation – one of several high-profile new entrants to the algal omega-3 fatty acids market – hopes to be in a position to supply commercial quantities of EPA/DHA-rich oil by April.

Neptune gains momentum in Asia as krill oil JV outlines new factory plans

Construction of a new factory that will manufacture Neptune Technologies & Bioressources’ krill oil products in Asia, will begin late this year or early next, and start generating revenue in 2014, bosses at the Canadian firm have revealed.

DRI president leads 2012 dairy charge to spotlight ‘total nutrient package’

Reflecting on a successful last year in research terms, US Dairy Research Institute (DRI) president Gregory Miller told Dairy Reporter.com about the key challenges facing the industry in 2012.

Disgraced resveratrol researcher: “Uni of Connecticut launched a conspiracy programme against Indians”

Dr Dipak K Das, PhD, the once lauded and now infamous resveratrol researcher accused by his longtime employer the University of Connecticut of fabricating data over seven years in more than 25 individual studies, says he is the victim of a racist campaign to smear him by the institution.

Vitamin D again linked to lower colorectal cancer risk

High blood levels of vitamin D may lower the risk of colorectal cancer by almost 40%, and the effects were influenced by certain genes, says a new study from Japan.

Probiotic-prebiotic combination may ease eczema in kids: Study

Combining probiotics and prebiotics to produce a symbiotic may reduce the severity of eczema in children, suggests new research from Taiwan with 60 children.

Neptune posts 20% rise in nutraceutical sales in Q3 as krill oil demand grows

Canadian krill oil firm Neptune Technologies & Bioressources has posted a 20% rise in third-quarter revenues to $5.12m in its nutraceuticals business and a $869,000 net profit compared with a $13,000 loss for the same period the previous year.

170+ products have earned NSF Certified for Sport designation

More than 170 products have now earned the NSF Certified for Sport designation as momentum builds ahead of the London Olympics.

Research veteran on shamed resveratrol academic: “Once or twice maybe. 26 times? That takes a special mind.”

The resveratrol and broader nutrition science community continues to reel from last week’s revelations that Dipak K Das, PhD, “one of the world’s great red wine and resveratrol researchers” allegedly doctored results in at least 26 peer-reviewed resveratrol papers over seven years.

‘Uptick’ in GRAS interest suggests industry looking for NDI alternative

An increase in GRAS (generally recognized as safe) determinations for an ingredient, and particularly self-affirmed GRAS, suggests that industry is looking at the alternatives to NDI notifications, but what are the consequences?

Study provides framework for gut microflora-obesity advances

Scientists have identified the gut microbial pattern that corresponds with excess body weight, and deepen our understanding of how the gut microflora interacts with host metabolism.

Hydroxycut firm to pay $1.5m to settle false advertising and Prop 65 case

The firm at the center of the 2009 Hydroxycut recall has been told to pay $1.5m to settle 10 California district attorneys' complaints over deceptive advertising of its dietary supplements and Proposition 65 violations.

Healthy brain wiring in adults depends on iron levels in adolescence, study

A lack of iron in childhood can affect the physical structure of the brain, according to a new study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

7 years. 26 journal articles. 145 fraud instances. The heart of a resveratrol research scandal

The resveratrol research community won’t be badly damaged by a University of Connecticut researcher accused of publishing falsified data on the red wine antioxidant over seven years in 26 journal articles, say industry observers and the man at the middle of the furore.

Blueberry & broccoli may boost bowel health

Adding blueberries or broccoli to the diet may shift the balance of bacteria colonizing the gut, and improve inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), suggests new data from a mouse study.

Grapes may match lutein/zeaxanthin for retinal protection: Mouse data

Supplementing the diet with grapes may protect retinas from degeneration as much as lutein plus zeaxanthin, according to new data from mice.

Açai pulp demonstrates neuroprotective effects in new mouse study

New evidence of the potentially neuro-protective effects of açai was unveiled this week in a study on mouse brain cells suggesting pulp from the Amazonian fruit could “combat some of the inflammatory and oxidative mediators of aging at the cellular level”.

What’s hot in 2012? African Mango, organic supplements and brain food, says SPINS

African Mango, probiotics, chia, fermented drinks, organic supplements and cognitive health will be top of the health food pops this year, according to TrendWatch 2012, a new report from natural products specialist SPINS.

Neptune ups ante in krill patent war with new ‘continuation’ applications

Neptune Technologies and Bioressources has filed ‘continuation’ applications with the US Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) it says will allow it to pursue “additional patent claims that should preclude our competitors from selling their krill oil products in the US".

News in brief

CRN starts 2012 with six new members

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has announced six new members, taking its total membership to 99.

New safety study to help speed international registrations for EpiCor

International registrations for the immune health ingredient EpiCor will be ‘simplified and speeded up’ following publication of new safety data in a top-tier journal, said the company’s VP of scientific affairs.

Fish protein shows appetite suppression, weight management potential

Protein from blue whiting fish may promote the production of gut hormones associated with suppressing appetite, and may aid weight management, suggests new research from France.

Vitamin Angels to oversee DSM vitamin A-child blindness programme

DSM is handing its developing world vitamin A-based anti-blindness project, Sight and Life, to Vitamin Angels, the charity that has connected ingredient suppliers with more than 24m children, especially those who are vitamin A deficient.

AHP releases monograph for 'one of the most widely adulterated herbs on the market'

A monograph for American Ginseng – claimed to be one of the most widely adulterated herbs on the market - has been released by the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia (AHP).

More vitamin E linked to better mental function: Study

People with decreased mental function and Alzheimer’s disease are more likely to have low blood levels of vitamin E tocopherols and tocotrienols, suggest new findings from an international team of researchers.

News in brief

Danone, Yakult announce 5th year of research grants for probiotic and gut health

Danone and Yakult are handing out another $100,000 for research into the role of probiotics and gastrointestinal microbiota in health and wellness.

Açai lowers cholesterol and attenuates atherosclerosis, rabbit study

Consumption of extracts from the Amazonian superfruit açai “markedly” improved the lipid profile and attenuated atherosclerosis in rabbits with diet-induced hypercholesterolemia in a new study from Brazil.

Omega-3 linked to better memory in former depressives: Study

Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in membranes of red blood cells (erythrocytes) is associated with better mental function in older people recovering from depression, suggests new research.

News in brief

Pfizer still courting suitors for $1.87bn nutrition division

Nestlé, Danone, Abbott Laboratories and Heinz remain in the running to purchase the $1.87bn nutrition division of Pfizer, its CEO Ian Read confirmed yesterday.

pTeroPure gains momentum as BlūScience hits shelves at Walgreens

Momentum behind ChromaDex’s branded antioxidant pTeroPure is continuing to build with growing interest from food manufacturers and new listings for the pTeroPure-based supplement line BluScience at Walgreens.

Omega-3 supplements may only support short term weight loss: Study

Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids may lead to reductions of body fat for obese people, but is only effective over short time frames, according to new research.

Probiotic may minimize severity of C. difficile-induced colitis: Ganeden study

Dietary supplements with Ganeden’s BC30 bacterial strain may reduce the severity of infection with C. difficile and speed recovery, suggests new data from a study with animals.

Not all pectin created equal for cholesterol-lowering activity: Cargill

Daily consumption of pectin-containing foods may lower LDL cholesterol by as much as 10%, says a new study funded by Cargill, but the effects are dependent on the type of pectin used.

Modified probiotics may protect against food borne illnesses: Study

Modified probiotics could help to reduce the risk of food borne infections such as Listeria by blocking the bacteria from entering the body in the gut, say researchers.

News in brief

Kaden/Symrise signs botanical distribution deal with Prinova USA

Prinova USA has been named the North American distributor for botanical products from Kaden Biochemicals, a member of the Symrise Group, as Kaden moves closer to its US customers.

News in brief

Sabinsa donates to Japanese earthquake/tsunami relief

Phytonutrient and specialty fine chemicals supplier Sabinsa has donated Y1,500,000 (US$ 20,000) to the Asahi Shimbun Social Welfare Organization to benefit children who lost their parents in the earthquake and tsunami in Japan on March 11, 2011.

UNPA: We agree with AHPA on DMAA labeling

The United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA) says it agrees with the AHPA that supplement makers should not label the stimulant DMAA (1,3-Dimethylamylamine) as geranium oil or as any part of the geranium plant.

FTC settles case vs another firm making bogus acai weight loss claims

Another firm has been ordered to pay a large sum to settle a case brought by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) as part of its crackdown against firms making bogus weight loss claims about acai pills.

What can be patented in the world of natural ingredients?

What can be patented in the world of natural ingredients? More than you think, Minneapolis-based patent attorney Gary Speier tells Elaine Watson.

News in brief

Clarification: CRN US has not condemned DMAA

The Washington DC-based Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has clarified that it has not condemned the sports supplement compound, DMAA (methylhexaneamine/1,3-dimethylamylamine), although its namesake in the UK has.

Fiber-rich vegetarian diet leads to better gut microflora profile: Study

Consuming a vegan or vegetarian diet results in different profiles of gut microflora, with lower levels of potentially pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli, says a new study.

CRN on DMAA: “The law is clear. DMAA is illegal in the EU and should be stripped from shelves”

Trade in sports products containing the controversial stimulant DMAA (methylhexaneamine/1,3-dimethylamylamine) is illegal in the European Union, and should be brought to an immediate halt by EU and member state authorities, according to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) UK.

Vitamin D again shows anti-diabetic activity

Increased blood levels of vitamin D may reduce the risk of developing diabetes, suggests data from Spain that adds to a growing both of science supporting the anti-diabetic potential of the sunshine vitamin.

Be on your guard for ‘bath salt’ stimulants in supplements, warns expert

Dangerous stimulants in so-called ‘bath salts’ and plant food could make their way into the supplements trade this year if firms do not maintain their vigilance, according to one expert in the analytical testing field.

Red wine may reduce breast cancer risk, suggests study

Consumption of moderate amounts of red wine is associated with changes in serum hormones that could lead to a reduction in breast cancer risk, say researchers.

News in brief

Vitamin Shoppe first retailer to get NSF ‘Certified for Sport’

Vitamin Shoppe has become the first retailer to earn NSF Certified for Sport certification, closing a busy week for the sought after certification program.

Omega-3 may enhance benefits of strength training for the elderly

Supplementing a strength training regime with omega-3-rich fish oil may enhance the benefits of the regime, says a new study with 45 elderly women.

GNC: There is no scientific evidence to prove causal link between DMAA and AERs

GNC has weighed into the debate over the stimulant DMAA (1,3-Dimethylamylamine) following the recall of DMAA-containing products from stores on military bases while the Department of Defense conducts a probe into its safety.

FDA silent on calls from Sen Hatch and Harkin to withdraw NDI draft guidance

Staff for Senators Harkin and Hatch are still waiting for a response from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) following calls from the Senators for FDA to withdraw its NDI draft guidance and for January meetings to discuss concerns.

Global nutraceutical ingredient market worth €18.5bn in 2015

Demand for nutraceutical ingredients like botanicals, vitamins, minerals and omega-3s will grow 7.2% annually until at least 2015 to be worth €18.5 billion with newer markets like Mexico and South Korea helping drive growth in the sector, according to market analyst, Freedonia.

Fermented soy ingredient may reduce hot flushes: Study

A new fermented soy ingredient containing S-equol could significantly reduce the incidence of hot flushes, according to new research.

Probiotic gum beats placebo for bad breath: Study

Lactobacillus reuteri-containing gum can significantly reduce halitosis, Danish researchers have found, although the mechanism of action remains a mystery.

USPLabs: DMAA is from geranium oil – and critics are ‘uninformed’

USPLabs has insisted that the DMAA (1,3-Dimethylamylamine) in its Jack3d and OxyELITE Pro supplements is from geranium in the wake of continued speculation over the source and regulatory status of the popular stimulant.

Dietary supplements industry is doing better than most: NOW Foods president

The dietary supplements industry is doing better than many consumer brand industries, despite issues such as NDIs, says the new president of NOW Foods.

Krill oil may benefit heart function: Rat study

Supplements containing krill oil may boost heart function in an animal model of heart failure, according to results of small study with lab rats.

Probiotics and stevia extracts among new FCC proposed standards

US Pharmacopeia has drafted new ingredient quality standards for inclusion in the Food Chemicals Codex (FCC), for probiotics, steviol glycosides, benzoates, infant formula and flavoring ingredients, and is seeking industry comments.

Comment

NutraIngredients-USA predicts top industry influences in 2012

As the New Year begins, NutraIngredients-USA predicts the top issues likely to have the greatest impact on the US dietary supplements industry in the year ahead.

Micronutrient combination may boost male fertility: Study

A combination of eight micronutrients may boost sperm quality and enhance the chance of conception, suggests new data from Austria.

News in brief

NPA announces winners of 19th Annual NPA Awards

Rutgers University’s James Simon, PhD, and Growing Power’s Will Allen are amongst the winners of this year’s Annual NPA awards, as the trade association again honors outstanding contributions to the natural products industry.

News in Brief

Wellness International eyes US expansion after NSF Certified for Sport approval

Wellness International Network is forecasting a large expansion in the United States sports market following its NSF Certified for Sport program certification.

News in brief

GMP Labs gets NSF Certified for Sport

Anaheim-based GMP Laboratories of America Inc has been Certified for Sport by NSF International, as the company met stringent certification requirements, including testing for more than 150 banned substances.

Calories alone, not protein, responsible for body fat increases, says research

Calorie consumption alone is responsible for increase in body fat, whilst protein intake may contribute to changes in energy expenditure, according to new research.

FDA warning letters: Social media, website claims & GMP violations

The FDA published a handful of warning letters in late December, with cGMP violations and claims on websites and social media sites continuing to catch the FDA’s eye.

Dept of Defense supports removal of DMAA products from military facility shelves

The US Department of Defense has temporarily banned the sale of products containing DMAA within military facilities following links to two recent soldier deaths.

Folic acid and allergy: Study identifies ‘optimal’ level to reduce allergy risk

Concerns that folic acid supplements during pregnancy may increase the risk of allergic conditions in the infants may be unfounded, and folate may actually decrease allergy risk, suggests a new study.

Healthy oil components may fight pancreatitis

Fatty acids and phytochemicals found in fish oil and olive oil have been shown to block cellular mechanisms involved in the development of acute pancreatitis, say researchers.

Gold kiwifruit may slash severity of common cold: Study

Eating a couple of gold kiwifruit every day may reduce the severity of symptoms of the common cold, says new data from New Zealand.

Strawberry extracts as good as the whole food, suggests study

Processed strawberries may deliver the same amount of beneficial compounds as the whole fruit, says a new study from Spain that supports the potential health boosting effects of processed strawberry products.

Trans fats and nutrient intake linked to Alzheimer’s brain shrinkage

Consumption of ‘junk food diets’ containing high levels of trans fats may lead to brain shrinkage associated with Alzheimer’s, whilst consumption of foods high in vitamins may offer protection, says new research.