Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North America EU edition

Weekly comment

Temporary workers and corporate responsibility

As ever more food companies find themselves in the position of having employed migrants who were mistreated by illegal labour providers, it may be time for firms to start taking more responsibility for the temporary workers many of them rely on.

Fruit could be key to natural sports recovery products

Fruit extracts could soon be used to develop novel ingredients for sports recovery products following a first round of positive scientific findings, say researchers in New Zealand.

Japanese CoQ10 receives GRAS

Asahi Kasei Pharma Corporation will start supplying its CoQ10 as an ingredient for use in foods and beverages in the US market, following its certification as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe).

Vitamin A may suppress type 1 diabetes

High levels of vitamin A may curb the onset of type 1 diabetes by protecting against the attack of insulin-producing beta cells, according to an animal study by American scientists.

ALA can benefit dry eye syndrome

Topically applying alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) can ease the symptoms of dry-eye syndrome, according to American researchers.

EFSA nutrient profiling opinion gives no guidance, advisor

Companies need to keep a close eye on the next steps in the development of the European Commission's nutrient profiling system, says an advisor from EAS, since EFSA has failed to give an indication of foods that will be included.

International probiotic group establishes quality seal standards

The International Probiotics Association (IPA) has set criteria for a mooted labeling scheme that will allow probiotics products to bear a quality seal.

Apples may help ward off colon cancer

Apple pectin and polyphenol-rich apple juice have an anticarcinogenic effect on the colon, encouraging the production of suspected chemopreventative metabolite butyrate, say researchers.

Study backs satiety benefits of PinnoThin

A new study has shown that pine nut oil can help reduce food consumption, providing additional weight to the satiety benefits of Lipid Nutrition's PinnoThin ingredient.

New anti-aging beauty-from-within ingredient hits US market

US firm NutraGenesis has combined two of its ayurvedic extracts in a new 'beauty-from within' dietary supplement ingredient, which the company says can help rejuvenate the skin and reduce signs of ageing.

Red wine antioxidant may kill cancer cells

The antioxidant resveratrol, found in grape skins and red wine, can cripple the function of pancreatic cancer cells while sensitising them to chemotherapy, says new research.

Omega-3 carves way to mainstream, says major supplier

Omega-3 is becoming a household term and the category is fast moving into the mainstream, according to supplier Ocean Nutrition, which is seeing sales of the ingredient explode.

DSM introduces blood pressure ingredient to US

A new naturally-derived ingredient designed to help maintain healthy blood pressure has attracted significant attention on its first formal introduction to the US market, said manufacturer DSM.

Sensible luxury the key to new age of boomers

A new study of consumers approaching their 70s indicates that the spending habits of this powerful 'baby boom' consumer group are set to shift - once again.

Mars: Sterol chocolate reduces cholesterol levels

An industry sponsored, peer reviewed study has found consuming chocolate containing plant sterols and cocoa flavanols can lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

The probiotic secrets to Yakult's success

Yakult, the leading global probiotic yogurt drink, puts its success down to three major factors: the scientific backing for its probiotic strain, the high quantities of live bacteria found in each serving, and the affordable price of the product.

Researchers to examine health benefits of olives

The potential health benefits of olives will be the focus of researchers at the first university-based olive research and education center in North America based at the University of California, Davis.

TSI awarded US fenugreek patent

TSI Health Sciences has won a patent for its fenugreek seed extract-derived glucose/insulin management ingredient, Promilin.

Vitamin K benefits hip fractures

New research has concluded vitamin K2 consumption can aid recovery from hip fractures as well as have potential osteoporosis benefits.

Fruit and veg linked to kids' school performance, study

Fruit and vegetable consumption and dietary fat intake were found to play an important role in children's academic performance, highlighting yet again the need for balanced diets at an early age.

Triarco enters liquid glucosamine market

Triarco Industries has launched a water-soluble, high-concentration version of liquid glucosamine the company says is aimed at foods and beverages that appeal to the "older" glucosamine-buying demographic.

Fish oil could reduce inflammation, finds study

Daily intake of essential fatty acids could help reduce the need for painkillers in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to a new study.

Martek launches allergen-free DHA

Martek BioSciences has launched a new protein-free version of its flagship DHA ingredient, which the firm is positioning for use in foods and supplements that contain no allergens.

Dietary guidelines play role in disease risk reduction

Consumers adhering to healthy diets similar to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) are less likely to suffer from metabolic syndrome, say researchers.

Weekly comment

Calm crucial for energy products

Energy drinks are a runaway success but extreme marketing and product formulation has the potential to cast a shadow over the multi-billion dollar global industry.

CRN snags health awareness award

A consumer awareness website set up by the US dietary supplement industry has been deemed the best online portal for health awareness in an annual communications contest.

Flavonoids reduce pancreatic cancer risk among male smokers

Finnish researchers have found flavonoid consumption may cut the risk of developing pancreatic cancer among male smokers.

Sabinsa audit confirms GMPs in India

Sabinsa Corporation has said that its manufacturing facilities in India have passed an independent audit determining adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).

Reinventing ingredients: Lessons from Litesse

Changes in industry conditions and challenges, coupled with emerging trends, can open up opportunities for manufacturers to breathe new life into old ingredients.

New DSM resveratrol marketed for safety, purity

DSM has launched a new resveratrol product, which it claims plugs a market need for a high potency ingredient supported by an extensive safety package.

ADM receives Canadian go-ahead for flax lignan

Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) has said that it has received registration for its BeneFlax dietary supplement ingredient from the Canadian regulatory authority.

Study links folate with healthier sperm

A new study has identified a possible link between men's intake of folate and reduced chromosomal abnormalities in sperm - a finding that, if substantiated by more research, may indicate that men should up their intake before conception as well as women.

Corn anthocyanins yield cardio-protective effect

An animal-based study investigating the link between anthocyanin consumption and cardiovascular disease has turned in encouraging results for the plant-derived flavonoids.

Solae to raise the price of soy lecithin

Solae has announced price increases for a broad range of its soy lecithin products from April 1 - just days after warning of the need for ingredients firms to pass on higher input costs.

Top NMI health and wellness trends: Part II

In the second part of a series on top trends identified by market researcher Natural Marketing Institute (NMI), NutraIngredients-USA.com examines the trends coined 'Dr Me', 'The Culture of Sustainability', 'Golden Opportunities', and 'The New Immunity'.

Propionic acid beverage could boost satiety

A new study suggests a dairy beverage fermented with propionic acid may boost feelings of satiety, but work will be needed on optimal dose and palatability of market-viable food concepts.

Phospha E receives GRAS for use in foods

Australian firm Phosphagenics has said that its patented Phospha E vitamin E ingredient has been self-affirmed as GRAS (generally recognized as safe), which will soon open the door for its use in foods and beverages in the US.

New 'natural' ingredients for blood glucose, heart support

Ingredients firm Cyvex has launched two new plant-derived ingredients for use in dietary supplements and foods to help control blood glucose levels and support heart and digestive health.

Two's a crowd for probiotic cytokine production

Finnish researchers have found single strains of probiotic bacteria have a greater effect on cytokine production than those used in combination.

Top NMI health and wellness trends: Part I

As health, wellness and sustainability in the food sector continue to move into the mainstream, market research firm Natural Marketing Institute (NMI) has identified eight major trends it expects will drive these sectors.

Study supports Pycnogenol for better memory in elderly

A new study indicates that the flavonol Pycnogenol can help improve memory in the elderly - findings the researchers say support putative benefits of antioxidants for cognitive function.

FDA plans wider foreign inspection approach

The US Food and Drug administration (FDA) is seeking permission from the Chinese government to install eight full time FDA officials in the country, as part of plans to improve monitoring of exported food manufacturing across the globe.

Capsugel launches clear vegetarian capsule

US Capsule manufacturer Capsugel has developed a clear version of its popular Vcaps vegetarian capsule, which produces a more aesthetically-pleasing product that can be used with a wide variety of colors.

Gluten-free vegan diet could protect arthritics' hearts, study

Arthritis sufferers who adhere to a gluten-free vegan diet could be better protected against heart attacks and stroke, according to a randomized study published yesterday.

Nutrition specialist debuts take-home blend

A Californian start-up has launched a zero-calorie, powdered vitamin and mineral blend that allows consumers to concoct their own functional beverages at home.

Genotype foods still a decade from the shelves: experts

Personalised food tailored for people's genotypes are still 10 to 15 years away from the shelves, experts told the Nutrigenomics 2008 conference in Paris.

Study suggests soy stops prostate cancer spread

A new animal study has added to a body of research suggesting that soy could prove helpful in the fight against prostate cancer spreading to other parts of the body.

New proposal for global, legal junk food ad ban

A new code that would restrict the marketing of unhealthy foods to children has been proposed by two international lobby groups who claim the food industry is failing to self-regulate, especially in developing countries.

Anadis enters US arena for colostrum-derived products

Australian firm Anadis has formed a partnership with Garden State Nutritionals (GSN) having identified potential in America for colostrum bioactive products for gastro intestinal problems.

Artemis extends excipient-free purple corn line

Artemis is launching a new excipient-free purple corn ingredient standardised to 12 percent anthocyanins, extending the options for companies developing antioxidant-based products.

Canadians warned off Ephedra (again)

The Canadian regulator has issued a statement warning consumers against using high-dose Ephedra products it has prohibited since 2002.

Yak cheese healthier for heart than cheddar: study

Milk from the yak can produce cheese with more heart-healthy fats than cheese from dairy cattle, suggests new research.

Labeling on the agenda for Codex

The Codex Committee on Food Labeling (CCFL) will discuss international labeling guidelines amid increasing consumer awareness of the food they eat, a trend that mounts pressure on the industry.

Scientists expand encapsulation methods for bioactives

Canadian scientists have developed a new encapsulation method using chitosan and alginate to stabilize micronutrients and protect them during passage through the stomach.

Qualified health claims draw more heat

Four Capitol Hill parliamentarians are calling on the FDA to abandon funding for conventional food qualified health claims such as those relating to eggs and nuts.

SunOpta to close acquisition despite financial woes

SunOpta is set to complete its acquisition of Tradin Organic Agriculture in the next few weeks having faced delays due to the internal financial issues.

Lutein, zeaxanthin for AMD protection: more science

Higher intakes of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin in the diet may slash the risk of age-related macular degeneration by 65 per cent, suggests a new study from Down Under.

Vitamin D pills may protect kids from type-1 diabetes

The overwhelming body of science supports vitamin D supplements for protection against the development of type-1 diabetes, indicates a new meta-analysis.

Natural carotenoids set for Canadian distribution

Vitatene is entering the Canadian market with its line of naturally-derived carotenoids thanks to an exclusive distribution agreement with Alliance Principle Ingredients.

Leiner bankruptcy plea amplifies annus horribilis

One of America's leading supplements manufacturers, Leiner Health Products, has filed for bankruptcy protection amid an ongoing period of misfortune.

Potato proteins offer blood pressure benefits

Proteins isolated from the humble potato may be biologically active and capable of reducing blood pressure, as well as having antioxidant activity, Finnish researchers report.

Ganeden unveils health bars with durable probiotic

Healthcare company Ganeden Biotech is launching a probiotic health bar using its form of bacillus coagulans GB1-30, a strain it says is flexible and viable in manufacturing processes.

Healthier products rely less on commodity ingredients

Canny formulation of structured emulsions like spreads, dressings and mayonnaise can enable manufacturers to meet two objectives: delivering healthier products and reducing high-cost commodities, according to a Unilever R&D expert.

Blueberries may cut osteoporosis link, for rats at least

An increased intake of blueberries may prevent the weakening of bones that occurs after the menopause, suggests a new study with rats.

New mint blends to beat high costs

Flavors company AM Todd is introducing two new mint oil blends which it claims will allow food companies to buck the trend of rising mint prices.

Omega-3 deficient diet poses risks to infant health

The typical North American diet consisting of large amounts of meat and little fish is deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, posing possible risks to infant neurological development, says new research.

Green leafy vegetables may halve lung cancer risk

An increased intake of green leafy vegetables, but not fruit, may reduce the risk of lung cancer by 50 per cent, suggests a new study from Spain.

Osteo-Life targets bone health market

Israeli flavours, fragrances and fine ingredients house Frutarom has launched a soy, calcium carbonate and vitamin D blend targeting 10s of millions people globally with diminished bone health.

Magnesium may prevent strokes in male smokers

A high intake of magnesium may play a role in preventing cerebral infarction, a form of stroke, according to a large-scale population study from Finland.

The importance of quality assurance

Naturex talks about the importance of sourcing quality-assured ingredients, and the measures a company should have in place to ensure it meets the highest standards.

Weekly comment

Warning signs: reconsidering shock tactics

Here's a possible new marketing angle for food and beverage manufacturers: "Food can kill".

Vitamin D-calcium combo provides long-term benefits for men

The benefits of a combined vitamin D3 and calcium for bones, reported to stop or slow bone loss, may extend for up to 18 months after stopping supplementation, suggests a new study from Australia.

Oxygen water mounts science-driven comeback

An 'enhanced' bottled water widely lambasted for its health-boosting claims since its 2001 launch in the US has re-launched with what it claims is fresh scientific backing.

Rising costs push up Kyowa amino acid prices again

Kyowa Hakko has raised the cost of its L-amino acids range by 5 percent on the back of spiraling energy and raw material costs and a continuing increase in demand.

Second-generation prebiotics get clinical trial support

A novel mixture of prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides may selectively boost levels of friendly bacteria in the gut, showing that manufacture prebiotics can be tailored for higher selectivity, UK researchers report.

Bioactive dairy protein focus for Manitoba-Australia team-up

Canadian and Australian scientists are teaming-up to explore the potential of bioactive proteins from dairy to impact chronic disease prevention and management.

Organic superfruit ingredients debut in North America

A Californian start-up has launched a range of ingredients that tap into two of the most dynamic and fastest growing segments of the food industry - superfruits and organics.

Broccoli compound boost for immune health

A compound found in broccoli, previously linked to anti-cancer benefits, may also counter the decline in the body's immune system associated with age, says a new study from UCLA.

Innovation still driving force for additives, says Freedonia

Food additive producers are building market value by developing new ingredients and improving existing ones - in turn enabling product manufacturers to improve quality and reduce costs, says Freedonia.

Study questions low-dose lutein for eye health

Supplements of lutein and a range of antioxidants did not benefit the health of normal eyes, possibly highlighting the importance of doses, suggests new research from England.

Infant formula omega-3 fortification increases, says Martek

Omega-3 supplier Martek Biosciences has reported "record" revenues and increased sales for its first quarter of 2008, boosted by strong international demand for its ingredient in infant formulas.

Chromium picolinate linked to brain activity boost

A daily supplement of chromium picolinate may increase brain activity in older people experiencing early memory decline, researchers have reported.

Elderly muscles benefit from amino acid supplements

Supplementing the diet of elderly people with the full set of essential amino acids can boost their lean body mass, strength and physical function, according to a new study.

New industry call for withdrawal of AER guidance

The industry clamor for the FDA to withdraw draft guidance on serious adverse events reporting is growing, with another trade association declaring the documents unnecessary and contrary to the language of the statue.

ZMC receives CoQ10 and Beta-carotene USP verification

Ingredients firm ZMC has become the first to be granted USP (United States Pharmacopeia) verification for CoQ10 and Beta-carotene ingredients, a move the firm hopes will help bolster its position in the lucrative market for the products.

Lutein, zeaxanthin good for healthy eyes, too

Supplementation with the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin could boost retinal health in the eyes, and have benefits for people with seemingly healthy eyes, says a new study.

Vitamin K linked to stronger bones for adolescents

An adolescent's vitamin K status could have important long-term implications on bone health, and a better status may protect them from osteoporosis later in life, suggests a new study.

Roxlor to take up the Keratec nutraceutical baton

Roxlor has signed new agreements with Keratec and Proviant Technologies to build the market for their ingredients for the supplement and functional food markets in the US and Europe.

Grape compound may aid type I diabetics, ARS

New research from the Agricultural Research Service has indicated, for the first time, a link between some compound in grapes and slower progression of type 1 diabetes.

FutureCeuticals blends anthocyanins for more benefits

FutureCeuticals has announced the development of a high anthocyanin nutritional blend, the first broad spectrum anthocyanin blend on the market.

FDA needs to move with the times, says commissioner

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) needs to adapt to changing safety concerns and technological advances in both industries, said a representative last week.

Micro-fibres enhance vitamin E delivery: study

The ability of fibres to bind vitamin E and improve delivery of the micronutrient may be increased almost 10-fold by making the fibres 'micro', Taiwanese researchers report.

CRN denounces FDA supplement labeling guidance

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has requested that the FDA withdraw its guidance on the labeling of dietary supplements, suggesting it is unnecessary and potentially misleading for consumers.

Supplement firm pays price for deceptive marketing

Airborne Health will fork out $23m in a settlement agreement, after the firm was accused of making false immunity claims about its popular multivitamin and herbal supplement.

Probiotic cheddar to offer blood pressure benefits

Adding probiotic bacteria to cheddar may lead to the formation of blood pressure lowering proteins, giving the cheese an added health punch, report Australian researchers.

Black tea compounds may protect against diabetes

Compounds in black tea may be able to mimic insulin and help prevent diabetes, suggests new research from Scotland.

Kill two birds with one stone: soy boosts bone and insulin

Supplements of soy isoflavones may lead to improvements in bone health and blood sugar metabolism, according to new research from Japan.

Weekly comment

The great food price smash-and-grab

While the world's media is bemoaning rising food prices, the French government is sniffing around the food industry for signs of gleeful profiteering. If it is right, the long-term losses of the nouveau cher will be far greater than the handful of centimes gained.

Canada seeks opinion on health claims review

Health Canada has extended its deadline for feedback on its food health claims review, as it plans to update its assessment framework to make the system clearer and the claims more credible.

Anthocyanins are not created equal, ARS cabbage study

The pigment that gives red cabbage its distinctive color can also help fight cancer in humans - provided the body can absorb the right type and in sufficient quantities, according to researchers from the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS).