Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North America EU edition

Ramazanov foundation extends deadline for award nominations

The deadline for nominations for this year's Ramazanov Award has been extended to September 30, as the foundation seeks more 'stellar innovators' to be proposed.

Calcium cheese powder promises mouth feel benefits

A calcium-fortified cheese powder is targeting beverage and food manufacturers with a claim that it has resolved the chalky mouthfeel typically associated with calcium fortification.

Novel barley boosts bowel health in humans: study

A resistant starch-rich barley may offer functional food potential for formulators to double the fibre content of products, and boost gut health in consumers, suggests new research.

Curcumin may offer diabetes benefits: study

Curcumin, the natural pigment that gives the spice turmeric its yellow colour, could have benefits for diabetics, suggests a joint Korean-American study.

Desire for satiating breakfasts opens doors for soy

Consumers increasingly seek filling breakfasts that release energy slowly, expanding opportunities for manufacturers of soy products, according to US-based Solae.

Special edition: Probiotic regulations and claims

Probiotic regulations in the Asia Pacific

The final installment of a regional series exploring probiotics regulations looks at the Asia Pacific.

Special edition: Probiotic regulations and claims

Probiotic regulations in the Asia Pacific

The final installment of a regional series exploring probiotics regulations looks at the Asia Pacific.

Symrise completes its drive into US flavors with Chr Hansen purchase

Symrise has finalized its acquisition of Chr Hansen's flavorings business in a move that will bring the company broader market coverage in the US as well as a more diverse ingredients portfolio.

Soluble fibre boosts satiety, aids weight loss: study

Supplements of soluble dietary fibre may increase weight loss by boosting satiety, and has beneficial effects for cardiovascular health, suggests a study.

Study supports lycopene protecting skin from within

Consuming lycopene-rich tomato paste may protect against sunburn and sun-induced skin ageing, British researchers have reported.

Special edition: Probiotic regulations and claims

Negotiating Europe's probiotic claim laws

The third article in this series on probiotics looks at the regulatory situation in the world's biggest and most developed probiotic market - Europe.

Micronutrients show potential against TB recurrence

Daily supplements of micronutrients vitamins A, B-complex, C, E, and selenium may reduce the recurrence of tuberculosis during standard treatment, suggests a new study.

SSE kicks off with rich educational program

Representatives from the nutrition industry are gathering today in Secaucus, NJ, as Supply Side East opens its doors for a three-day education line up together with an exhibit of new functional ingredients.

Rosehip reduces osteoarthritis pain, says meta-analysis

Extracts from rosehip may reduce pain associated with osteoarthritis by 37 per cent, according to a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Weekly comment

No quick fix to the food price crisis

The food crisis is neither new nor sudden. The several underlying causes have been independently, steadily gathering speed and have collided in a perfect storm not seen for generations. It is going to take a coordinated, long-term effort to untangle them.

Special edition: Probiotic regulations and claims

Negotiating Europe's probiotic claim laws

The third article in this series on probiotics looks at the regulatory situation in the world's biggest and most developed probiotic market - Europe.

Science stacks up for Kyowa's citicoline supplement

Supplements of CDP-choline may boost biological energy in brain cells, and be neuroprotective, suggests new research from Harvard and Kyowa Hakko.

Special edition: Probiotic regulations and claims

How Canada regulates probiotics

A second article in a series on probiotic regulations and health claims in different markets around the world examines the situation in the Canadian market.

Q1 profits more than double at Bunge

Bunge reported a 70 percent increase in sales revenue for Q1 2008 over Q1 2007, as it reaps the benefits of rising commodity prices coupled with global demand that is not likely to ebb anytime soon.

Green tea's Alzheimer protection gets more support

Green tea catechins may inhibit the loss of reference and working memory linked to plaque formation in the brain, say research from Japan, adding to claims that the beverage may help ward off Alzheimer's.

Vitamin D, calcium combo may cut exercise-related stress fractures

Daily supplements of calcium and vitamin D, long linked to improving bone health, may also reduce the risk of stress fractures during exercise, scientists have reported.

Special edition: Probiotic regulations and claims

IPA event examines probiotic health claims in the US

A recent conference on probiotics provided an overview of the global regulatory status of the bacteria, as well as the health claims that can be associated with these on different markets. In the first article in a series, NutraIngredients-USA.com examines the state of affairs in the United States.

Omega-3 and bipolar disorders: Jurys still out

More well-designed studies are required before any conclusions can be drawn on the benefits of omega-3 for people with bipolar disorders, University of Oxford researchers have reported after reviewing the literature.

Chinese flax gains international patent, targets foods

Biogin Biochemicals has received a patent for its standardized flax seed extract, AlaLife Flax Lignan, as the Chinese botanicals supplier bids to develop its international presence in the foods, beverages and cosmeceuticals sectors.

Mexican food supplement rules up for discussion

Anipron, the Mexican dietary supplements trade group will host European Union regulators, Mexican government decision makers and key industry figures to discuss supplements regulations and their impact on consumers in the central American republic.

Mexican food supplement rules up for discussion

Anipron, the Mexican dietary supplements trade group will host European Union regulators, Mexican government decision makers and key industry figures to discuss supplements regulations and their impact on consumers in the central American republic.

Lifelong prebiotic supplements may enhance survival: rat study

Lifelong supplementation with the prebiotics inulin and oligofructose may extend lifespan by over 30 per cent, according to a new animal study from France.

CPI adds stevia in hopes of FDA approval

Corn Products International is investing in what it sees as the eventual approval of stevia as a sweetener by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), by adding a stevia-based high-intensity sweetener to its portfolio.

Health awareness boosts US soy market, report

The US market for soy foods and beverages is poised for strong growth as consumer awareness of the health benefits of soy increases, according to a new report.

Season lightly for nutrient-rich tomatoes

Differences between salt and fresh water organisms does not usually extend to land plants, but Italian researchers report that watering tomatoes with diluted seawater can boost their nutrient content.

No change for ginkgo monograph, says AHPA

The ginkgo biloba monograph has not been updated in any significant manner as implied by a Californian botanicals supplier yesterday, according to the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA).

Beneo explores carbohydrates for weight management

Carbohydrates could be set to play an important role in weight management and the fight against obesity, said experts at the 1st European Beneo Scientific Symposium in Brussels.

DSM brings natural joint health ingredient to North America

DSM Nutritional Products has introduced a rose hip dietary supplement ingredient in North America, which the firm is positioning for the growing joint health market.

Accucaps doubles production capacity in Ontario facility

Accucaps Industries, an encapsulation firm, has converted its Strathroy, Ontario facility to focus on health and nutritional (H&N) products, a move the firm says will double its total production capacity.

Vitamin D pills for risk groups may be warranted: experts

The benefits of vitamin D for brain health may warrant recommendations for supplements in groups at risk of low levels, leading American scientists say.

Study supports safety of saw palmetto

Safety concerns over saw palmetto supplements for prostate health may be unfounded, according to a new study from the US that reported no adverse effects.

Lipid Nutrition prepares for launch of PinnoThin powder

Lipid Nutrition is to launch a powder form of its PinnoThin weight loss ingredient, which the firm hopes will expand its use in a wider range of food and beverage applications.

Digestive health ingredient gets second US push

A dietary supplement ingredient for digestive health is making its comeback on the US market, with a new distribution agreement signed by B&D Nutritional Ingredients and Xsto Solutions.

Fruit and vegetables may help weight loss

Increased fruit and vegetable intake may help weight loss in overweight adults, according to a recent study.

Weekly Comment

The dangers of selective science

Antioxidants are back under the microscope for all the wrong reasons. But the use of meta-analyses to pool data is controversial, and scientists need to keep perspective before publishing conclusions.

Lycopene from tangerine tomatoes more bioavailable: study

The lycopene content of orange tomatoes is more bioavailable than the form of lycopene found in the red variety, says new research from the US.

New encapsulation to increase B12 absorption

Emisphere Technologies' new encapsulation technology that enhances the absorption of B12 vitamin has passed its second stage of proof concept studies and is due to be released next year.

ZMC takes up position in lutein, zeaxanthin market

Ingredient group ZMC has been granted a lutein and zeaxanthin patent, which the company hopes will help position it as a leading global supplier for the two dietary supplement ingredients.

Yellow kiwifruit may boost immune health: study

A puree from gold kiwifruit may enhance the immune response by promoting the production of antibodies in mice, suggests a new study from the home of the fruit.

Vitamin E linked to longevity in Alzheimer patients

An increased intake of vitamin E supplements may improve the survival of people suffering from Alzheimer's disease, researchers report.

New superfruit flavors deliver nutritional benefits

Kerry Ingredients & Flavours has extended its line of functional flavors, which are said to combine the flavor and nutritional value of fruits and vegetables.

CRN authors risk assessment for key amino acids

A risk assessment for the amino acids taurine, glutamine and arginine, has been authored by the CRN, providing industry and consumers with important information on safe dosage levels.

Vitamin D status linked to artery health: study

Increased levels of vitamin D may improve cardiovascular health and reduce the prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), suggests a new study.

Pine bark extract's osteoarthritis potential expanded

Supplements of French maritime pine bark extracts may reduce the pain associated with arthritis of the knee by about 55 per cent, suggests a new study.

FDA should help firms investigate adverse events, says CRN

A US dietary supplement industry group has called on the nation's regulator to allow for the freer disclosure of information related to adverse events reporting.

New rosmarinic acid to target nutraceutical market

Ingredients firm Ceapro is set to develop a spearmint extract for use as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in functional foods and dietary supplements.

GMA blames biofuels for spike in food prices

The Grocery Manufacturers Association is pinpointing food for fuel as a major factor in US food price hikes as indexes this week showed finished food prices are rising at twice the rate of all other finished goods.

Omega-3 EPA linked to improved gullet health

An increased intake of the omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may improve the fatty acid levels composition in the gullet, and reduce the risk of cancer, suggests a new study.

Antioxidant supplements again called into question

A meta-analysis of 67 randomised trials with antioxidant supplements has reported that vitamins A and E, and beta-carotene may increase mortality risk by up to 16 per cent.

FDA stiffs $100,000 worth of 'natural' erectile drugs

Dietary supplements worth more than $100,000 have been seized by the FDA for making inappropriate pharmaceutical claims and containing unauthorized ingredients.

Cargill benefits from commodity price surge

Cargill has reported strong growth for its third financial quarter, largely due to increased demand for agricultural commodities in developing countries as well as swelling global energy needs.

New flax lignan hits US market

Cactus Botanics has launched a new flax seed lignan ingredient in the North American market, which it hopes will help address a growing consumer focus on a number of health conditions, including prostate and heart health.

Sabinsa's coconut ingredient gets patent protection

Ingredient firm Sabinsa has been granted a US patent for its branded coconut ingredient, which the firm says can be used in functional foods, dietary supplements and cosmetics to support healthy cell growth.

Green tea for sports nutrition?

Antioxidant-rich green tea may counter the effects of resistance exercise by reducing the detrimental effects of oxidative stress, suggests a small trial from Brazil.

No need to ban DHA and ARA, says Martek

Martek Biosciences Corporation has described accusations that its widely used DHA and ARA ingredients should be banned from US organic products because they are hexane-extracted as "absolutely false".

Probiotics may offer benefits for alcoholic livers

Supplements of friendly bacteria may restore the immune function of white blood cells in alcoholics, suggests new research from the UK.

DNP says sales grow as customers expand

Ingredient supplier DNP International has said it has seen strong first quarter profit growth, which it claims has been achieved without profiting from unnecessary price increases for customers.

Ephedra recall backed by industry

Last week's recall of nine dietary supplement products containing ephedra has again put the spotlight on the banned ingredient, and the importance of keeping it off the market.

Vitamin D, calcium's colon benefits pinpointed?

Epidemiological studies supporting vitamin D and calcium for protection against colorectal cancer may be biochemically and biologically plausible, suggests new research.

Work underway for 2010 dietary guidelines

A new advisory committee will be formed to decide on updates for the government dietary guidelines in line with advances in scientific and medical knowledge.

Canola protein shows anti-diabetes potential

Substituting milk proteins for proteins from rapeseed (canola) could delay the onset of insulin resistance and protect against diabetes, suggests a new study with rats.

Kraft chooses Probi for North American probiotic push

Kraft Foods is throwing its weight behind the booming North American probiotic market by signing a deal with a Scandinavian probiotics specialist that will see the food giant expand its digestive health range of foods called LiveActive.

BASF cans CoQ10 amid consumer apathy

After less than two years, BASF has terminated its presence in the global CoEnzymeQ10 market, citing a lack of demand for its premium, nanotechnology-driven, highly soluble and bioavailable ingredients.

Special edition: Applying health claims

Legal advice to avoid FDA/FTC claim clamp- down

The final article in a NutraIngredients-USA.com series on health claims examines the top priorities set out by an FDA and FTC compliance lawyer on how companies can ensure they are making the right claims.

Maternal omega-3 again linked to children's coordination

Increased intake of the omega-3 DHA during pregnancy could produce improved motor function in the offspring in later life, suggests a new study from Canada.

Blueberry flavonoids could have Alzheimer's benefits, study

Blueberries and other phytochemical-rich foods could help in increasing memory capacity by reversing age-related deficits in memory, according to a new rat study by UK researchers.

European food groups edging past US rivals in obesity focus

European-based food groups are generally ahead of their US rivals in providing health and wellness products to consumers, though they must do more to ensure the focus is a core part of their business, a new report claims.

Red grape's antioxidant benefits identified

A dietary supplement of red grape juice may reduce the activity of an enzyme linked to cardiovascular disease, suggests a new study said to be first report of its kind in humans.

New bread products focus on health

Most new bread and bread product launches over the past two years have been positioned in the health and wellness category, according to research from Mintel's Global New Product Database (GNPD).

GM lactoferrin manufacturer criticized over food plans

A Californian rice and barley ingredient developer has been criticized by organic and sustainable agriculture advocate, the Center for Food Safety (CFS), over attempts to introduce specialist GM proteins into the US food supply.

Cruciferous veg again linked to bladder cancer protection

An increased intake of cruciferous vegetables may slash the risk of bladder cancer by 36 per cent, says new research that attributes the benefits to the isothiocyanate content.

Special edition: Applying health claims

When FTC gets tough on misleading marketing

NutraIngredients-USA examines the enforcement strategy of the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in its efforts to ensure that the marketing claims made by food and dietary supplement manufacturers are accurate and substantiated.

Special edition: Applying health claims

FTC's two-pronged approach to ensuring accurate marketing

In the third article in a series on health claims, NutraIngredients-USA.com examines what the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) looks for when it assesses products for accurate marketing.

Vegetarian glucosamine enters joint health drink

The development of a new joint health drink made with glucosamine for the US market highlights how the popular joint health ingredient is spreading from the supplement arena to the food and beverage category.

Higher budget needed so FDA 'can do its job'

A dramatic increase in the FDA budget is needed to maintain a strong global position and encourage consumer confidence in the industry, said the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA).

Omega-3s offer no Crohn's disease benefits: study

Despite studies supporting the anti-inflammatory potential of omega-3 fatty acids, the oils are not effective for managing Crohn's disease, suggests a new international study.

Vitamin K2 linked to lower prostate cancer risk

An increased intake of vitamin K2 may reduce the risk of prostate cancer by 35 per cent, suggest results from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC).

Solae raises soy protein prices globally

US-based Solae has said it will raise prices of its soy protein ingredients around the world by as much as 30 percent in order for it to be able to maintain its R&D activities.

Special edition: Applying health claims

FDA enforcement action on health claims

In the second article in a series on health claims, NutraIngredients-USA.com examines what FDA looks for when regulating the use of claims on food, beverage and dietary supplements.

Lipid Nutrition passes PinnoThin advertising review

The US division of fatty acid specialist Lipid Nutrition is the latest company to have its claims assessed by the voluntary advertising watchdog, the National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus (NAD).

Lipid Nutrition passes PinnoThin advertising review

The US division of fatty acid specialist Lipid Nutrition is the latest company to have its claims assessed by the voluntary advertising watchdog, the National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus (NAD).

Green tea extract may stop breast cancer growth - in mice at least

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea may stop the growth and spread of breast cancer cells by impacting on the tumour's blood vessels, results from an animal study suggest.

CoQ10 emulsions boost bioavailability: study

The bioavailability of coenzyme Q10 can be enhanced by formulating emulsions with coconut oil, skimmed milk, and the emulsifier calcium stearoyl-2-lactate (CSL), Japanese researchers report.

Special edition: Applying health claims

Choosing health claims

In the first in a series of articles on the potential and dangers of health claims, NutraIngredients-USA.com examines the different types of claims that can be used on food, beverage and dietary supplement products in the US.

Passion fruit peel may ease breathing for asthmatics: study

A flavonoid-rich extract from purple passion fruit may ease wheezing amongst asthmatics, suggest findings from a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.

Omega-3 EPA may benefit depressives, says study

Dietary supplements of the omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may ease symptoms associated with depression, suggests a joint Anglo-Iranian study.

Media watchdog needs sharper teeth, says resveratrol player

Californian ingredients supplier Resveratrol Partners has criticized the National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus (NAD), a voluntary media watchdog, for failing to enforce its own rulings.

Media watchdog needs sharper teeth, says resveratrol player

Californian ingredients supplier Resveratrol Partners has criticized the National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus (NAD), a voluntary media watchdog, for failing to enforce its own rulings.

Weekly comment

HFCS and the battle for natural

It is hard for food companies not to get drawn into the temptation of using attractive label claims that may be shrouded by a veil of doubt. But the real risk comes when the 'if you don't know, don't ask' question is finally answered.

Wine and tea compounds linked to diabetes benefits

Antioxidant-rich red wine and tea could help regulate blood sugar levels in diabetics, suggests a new study from the University of Massachusetts.

Biotivia resveratrol claims come under spotlight

New York-based Biotivia has been told to amend some claims being made for its resveratrol supplements and ingredients after a complaint was brought by a competitor.

ADM increases vitamin E price

Ingredients firm ADM is raising prices for its vitamin E ingredients in all markets, the company has announced.

Red seaweed extract shows joint health benefits

A natural, multi-mineral ingredient derived from the red seaweed Lithothamnion Corallioides may improve osteoarthritis symptoms by about 15 per cent, say the results of a new pilot study.

Governments examine food labeling, marketing to kids

Government officials, nutritionists and consumer groups will next week examine the state food labeling and marketing as part of efforts to reduce childhood obesity globally.

Glanbia builds science behind whey protein for weight loss

A whey-protein-rich ingredient can reduce body fat and maintain lean muscle mass, reports a new randomised, double-blind study from Glanbia.

Enzymotec expands to US

Israeli ingredient firm Enzymotec has opened a US subsidiary, which the firm hopes will help it improve service to customers and penetrate new areas of activity - particularly functional foods.

DSM brings blood sugar control ingredient to US

DSM has formally launched its new InsuVital ingredient in the US market, where it hopes it will be snapped up by functional food manufacturers looking to market their products to pre-diabetics.

Going nuts for cholesterol reductions

Incorporating more nut and nut-containing foods into the diet at the expense of foods full of saturated fats could reduce cholesterol levels by six per cent, suggests a new study with macadamia nuts.

FDA comments on HFCS spark industry opposition

FDA's comment that it does not consider high fructose corn syrup to be 'natural' has generated heated debate in the US food industry, with one camp relieved for the clarification, while the other camp opposes it as invalid.

HFCS is not 'natural', says FDA

Products containing high fructose corn syrup cannot be considered 'natural' and should not be labeled as such, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said.

Salmonella study to build prebiotics knowledge

Studies are underway to investigate the use of galacto-oligosaccharides to protect animals from salmonella infection, both to reduce the risk of the bacteria entering the food chain and increase knowledge on prebiotics' benefits.

UK scientists gather to discuss obesity

'Growing up in an obesogenic environment', 'Have we sacrificed our children on the altar of a free market?', 'Endocrine disrupters and obesity - old chemicals, new questions' and other presentations will lead a UK symposium next month.

Durable probiotic expands reach across food categories

Ingredient manufacturer Ganeden Biotech claims its durable probiotic ingredient is contributing to the development of a new level of probiotic use in foods due to its flexibility.

US to examine nutrient profiling approaches

Scientists and nutritionists will meet next week to examine nutrient profiling systems around the world, and evaluate the regulatory and industry implications of using the system in the US.

Green tea shows superbug-battling potential

Green tea can boost the potential of antibiotics to battle superbugs and other bacterial strains and even make previously antibiotic-resistant bacteria susceptible to treatment, according to "surprised" Egyptian scientists.

CHS buys textured soy protein maker

Legacy Foods has been acquired by energy- and grain-based foods company CHS, in a move that is expected to take the textured soy protein supplier 'to the next level'.

Forbes Reducol sales up but loss continues

Forbes Medi-Tech continues to see a net loss from operations, but has said that sales of its flagship cholesterol-lowering ingredient remain strong.

Flavonoids shown to boost immunity of birds

Scientific findings directly linking flavonoid consumption to increased immunity in birds could pave the way for more research involving mice and humans, say German researchers.

Sabinsa selenium gets GRAS

Sabinsa Corporation is making its selenium ingredient available for food and beverage manufacturers in the US, following a recent GRAS (generally recognized as safe) certification.