Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North America EU edition

NSF launches online access to its GMP program

NSF International is launching a novel online program to help dietary supplement manufacturers comply with the upcoming Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) regulation.

Fish oil again linked to stronger bones

Increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake in the diet at the expense of omega-6 fatty acids may boost bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life, if a new study in mice can be translated into humans.

Consumers ready for functional foods, survey

More than 80 percent of Americans say they consume or are interested in consuming functional food and beverages, according to a survey from the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation.

Green tea extract may boost blood vessel health

The heart healthy reputation of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the main extract from green tea, may be due in part to improvement in blood flow through the vessels, suggests a clinical trial from the US.

Guest article

Managing and protecting your ingredient in a crowded market

In the increasingly competitive nutraceuticals market, branding strategy is essential to market differentiation.

Cactus pear pads linked to lower diabetes risk

Prickly pear cactus pads, consumed regularly in Mexico, could reduce blood sugar rises after a meal by up to 50 per cent, suggests a new study that may have implications for diabetes management.

Fortitech gets Pakistan iron fortification contract

New York State-based Fortitech announced its Asia Pacific operations have secured a manufacture and supply contract for iron premix with the Pakistan Ministry of Health's National Wheat Flour Fortification Program.

Most herb consumers don't follow indications, reports Mayo Clinic

A survey compiled by the University of Iowa and reported on by mainstream media has called into question the efficacy and safety of consumer use of herbal supplements in the United States.

Martek takes life'sDHA to Spain

Martek Biosciences Corporation announced it has made inroads in Spain with its branded vegetarian omega-3 ingredient, life'sDHA.

Hawaii to lead on tropical fruit research

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has opened a research center in Hawaii aimed at finding new ways to grow tropical crops sustainably.

Soy nuts may cut womens blood pressure

Using soy nuts as their source of protein in a healthy diet reduced blood pressure in postmenopausal women by up to 10 per cent, says a new study from the US.

Calcium, vit D may cut pre-menopausal breast cancer risk

Premenopausal women who consume higher amounts of calcium and vitamin D may lower their risk of developing breast cancer by almost 40 per cent, new research suggests.

Apple juice, bananas may lower childhood asthma

Increased consumption of apple juice or bananas may prevent childhood asthma, says new research from England that adds to an ever-growing body of science linking easy breathing to apples.

BioGin to launch resveratrol for weight loss

BioGin Biochemicals has announced it is launching resveratrol products primarily targeted at weight loss for the United States market.

West Coast energy drinkers spur Fortitech's premix expansion

The West Coast's thirst for energy drinks has driven nutrient premix specialist Fortitech to open a new manufacturing facility in Califoria set to increase the company's production for the Western United States by 350 percent.

Coca-Cola could shake-up functional category

The Coca-Cola Company's decision to advance further into the active lifestyle drinks is likely to send shivers across the functional beverage market as the beverage giant has a far-reaching distribution network at its disposal.

Weekly Comment

Press releases for the press?

In a world where getting your name out there is called branding, and branding in turn equals better market share, some companies will go to great lengths to draw attention to their name. With information sources driven by open-access Internet, companies can tailor press releases not always intended for the press.

National Starch extends sustainability from kernel to kitchen

National Starch Innovation is underscoring its commitment to sustainability with the launch of a new stewardship policy called Kernel to Kitchen, which aims to take responsibility for its products throughout the supply chain.

World's processed cereals should all be fortified, expert

In the interest of global public health the world's cereals should be fortified with iron, says the senior nutritionist of a US-based non-profit health organisation.

Nutratech and Syntech continue bitter orange patent dispute

An inquiry is under way, it has emerged, in yet another patent infringement case for the dietary supplement industry. This time the two parties battling it out are Nutratech and Syntech SSPF International, over the use of patented citrus aurantium.

Antioxidant-rich coffee may slash gout risk

Drinking four or more cups of coffee every day may cut the risk of developing gout, the most prevalent inflammatory arthritis in adult males, by 40 per cent, says new research that adds to an ever growing list of potential health benefits associated with the beverage.

Probiotics play increasing role in pediatric research

The University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) is currently conducting a large National Institutes of Health (NIH) funded study which researchers hope will shed light on the potential role of probiotics in asthma prevention at an early age.

Benefits of omega-3 fed cows passed onto consumers

Cows fed a diet rich in omega-3 produce enriched meat that has significant benefits for consumers, suggests new research from Kansas State University.

Toyota Tsusho seeks to expand Pantesin market with Pharmavite

Toyota Tsusho America has signed an exclusive supply and licensing agreement with finished products distributor Pharmavite for its branded cholesterol-lowering ingredient Pantesin in an effort to bring it to the mass consumer market in the United States.

FDA listens to industry, extends CAM guidance comment period

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the comment period on its draft CAM products guidance following widespread confusion relating to the document.

Apple extract may reduce fatigue for sporty types

An apple polyphenol extract from unripe apples reduced symptoms of fatigue and improved physical performance during exercise, Japanese researchers have reported.

Burcon nabs two more US patents for Supertein

Burcon NutraScience Corporation has been granted two US patents for novel uses of its Supertein canola protein as a functional component in food compositions, bringing the number of patents it holds for the ingredient up to seven.

Lung cancer and supplementation findings ignite debate

The Natural Products Association (NPA) has voiced concern surrounding findings presented at the American Thoracic Society 2007 International Conference, which indicated no statistically significant relationships between dietary supplements and lung cancer.

Survey shows women know about probiotics but aren't trying them

While many women in the US have now heard about the benefits of probiotics, only one in ten have used them to combat digestive problems, according to a survey that underscores a need for more communication about probiotics in general.

Exclusive interview

Full speed ahead for Frutarom

As growing companies go, Frutarom has its foot firmly on the accelerator. Jess Halliday talks to president and CEO Ori Yehudai about the secrets of completing fifteen successful acquisitions in twelve years and the challenges facing food ingredient suppliers today.

Could coffee cut Parkinson's risk?

Drinking a whopping ten cups of coffee a day or more could slash the risk of developing Parkinson's disease by 74 per cent, suggests a new prospective study from Finland.

Body absorbs Chromax better than other chromiums, study

A study from the Ohio State University Department of Human Nutrition found that Nutrition 21's branded chromium picolinate is absorbed better than other forms of the mineral linked to diabetes benefits.

Lifeway enters US takeaway market

Lifeway Foods is looking to capitalize on the American trend to eat away from home by taking its natural probiotic and organic dairy products out of grocery stores and into restaurants, schools, hotels and institutional facilities.

Carotenoids more bioaccessible from fruit than green veg - study

The bioaccessibility of carotenoids is greater from fruit than dark green vegetables, says a new study from Ireland that has important implications for the use of such ingredients in functional foods.

Cargill opens 150 acres for canola research

Cargill Specialty Canola Oil has signed a long-term lease to open a 150-acre specialty canola research farm in Canada which will develop high yield traits to meet expected surging demands in the future.

Mediterranean diet linked to low lung disease risk

Consuming a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fruit, vegetables and fish, may reduce the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by 50 per cent, says new research from Harvard.

USP to clean-up guidelines and standards

The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) is inviting comments on proposed revisions to guidelines and resources it makes available in the National Formulary (NF) and Food Chemicals Codex (FCC) with the aim of making the publications more user friendly.

Danone and Yokult Honsha to ramp up probiotic research

Food giant Danone and Yokult Honsha have announced that they are strengthening their probiotic scientific cooperation and extending a previous agreement by an additional three years.

Apples, fish during pregnancy may reduce kids asthma

Eating apples and fish during pregnancy may reduce the risk of asthma and allergic diseases in children, suggests a new study from the UK.

Weekly comment

Masterfoods and the vegetarianisation of food

Masterfoods' U-turn over its plan to reformulate its famous confectionery brands using animal-derived whey sets a precedent that will prevent any other food manufacturer from flying in the face of the global trend towards the vegetarianisation of our food.

Pharmachem and Metagenics to market LactiumPure

Metagenics has entered into an exclusive agreement with Pharmachem Laboratories for the distribution of a Lactium formula, called LactiumPure, which is free of intact casein and therefore safe for people with milk allergies.

Vitamin D bone benefits need added calcium, study

Taking vitamin D supplements to reduce the risk of fractures is only effective if accompanied by additional calcium, Belgian researchers have reported.

Cyvex and C.K. Foods tackle Canadian nutra market

Cyvex Nutrition has teamed up with C.K. Foods in a multi-year distribution deal that will give the supplier access to the Canadian market.

Functional foods need closer monitoring - experts

Functional foods need systematic monitoring because not enough is known about their long-term safety and effectiveness, Dutch scientists have stated.

Companies pair-up to offer foreign-sourcing support service

Novel Ingredient Services and the Ingredient House are pairing up to offer dietary supplement manufacturers the opportunity to better ensure the sourcing of their ingredients while still reducing costs - an aim that for many could be too good to be true.

Pine bark extract shows promise against heart failure

Extracts from French maritime pine bark may protect against heart failure, if a new study with mice can be translated into humans.

Personalized products set to grow, says market researcher

The concept of products 'made just for me' is set to gain importance with consumers in a general climate of reaction against mass marketing, according to trend spotter NMI.

Omega-3 and vitamin D linked to better eye health

Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and omega-3 rich fish could slash the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by 40 per cent, says a new study.

CRN gets more support for ad campaign

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has been rallying support among print publications for its new advertising campaign designed to get dietary supplement companies to file competitive challenges with the National Advertising Division (NAD) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

Nutracea says purchase orders in despite Q1 results

Nutracea appears to have gone through corporate growing pains during the first quarter of 2007 as it gets ready to supply major food companies with its nutritious stabilized rice bran.

Study raises concerns over multivitamins and prostate cancer

A new study from the US National Cancer Institute has reported that taking excessive amounts of multivitamins may increase the risk of advanced and fatal prostate cancers by 30 per cent.

Forbes Medi-Tech sees Q1 growth on Reducol sales

Reducol-maker Forbes Medi-Tech has reported strong results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2007, as it looks to expand its portfolio.

Activist doctors halt dairy weight loss ads

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the nation's dairy industry are putting a stop to claims in their advertising that dairy products cause weight loss following a petition from the controversial Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) filed in 2005.

Supreme Court denies ephedra appeal

Utah-based Nutraceutical Corporation has lost its fight for banned herbal, ephedrine, after filing a petition for a rehearing in front of the entire tenth circuit of the US Court of Appeals.

FDA targets two ED products

The credibility of dietary supplements supporting erectile dysfunction (ED) will not likely be enhanced by the US Food & Drug Administration's release of a health risk alert pertaining to two products.

Fibre, magnesium may slash diabetes risk

Increased intake of fibre and magnesium-rich grains may cut the risk of developing diabetes by more than 25 per cent, suggests a new study from Germany.

Gadot acquires Pharmline in ingredients expansion

Israeli minerals maker Gadot Biochemicals has announced the acquisition of 85 per cent US-based Pharmline Holding as the company expands its health ingredients business.

NAD continues crackdown on supplement marketing

The National Advertising Division (NAD) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus is referring Pure Pharmaceuticals' Sunpill marketing to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), as part of an overall effort to help the federal agency police the dietary supplement industry.

Oily fish may benefit heart rhythms, more support

A diet rich in omega-3-rich has beneficial effects on heart rhythms, and may offer protection against fatal abnormal heart rhythms, suggests a study from Greece.

Probiotics could improve premature babies' gut health

The risk of necrotising enterocolitis, one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in premature babies, may be cut by 74 per cent by probiotic supplementation, suggests a meta-analysis from Australia.

USDA highlights farm bill proposals for specialty crops

US Agriculture secretary Mike Johanns last week presented industry representatives with details of changes to the administration's 2007 farm bill, which provide an additional $5bn to address issues such as nutrition and obesity.

"Cocaine" makers spin new "Censored" name

After unabashedly criticizing the US Food & Drug Administration's (FDA's) threats to their product - Cocaine energy drink - Redux Beverages has announced it will change the product's name to Censored.

Maitake Products to launch ingredient for metabolic syndrome

Maitake Products has secured a United States patent for its active glycoprotein, SX-Fraction, from the maitake (grifola frondosa) mushroom, and plans to target it to support metabolic syndrome.

Farm milk may reduce asthma and allergy

Regular consumption of unpasteurised farm milk may offer protection from range of allergies, but the researchers cautioned against drinking raw milk until more research is carried out.

R.I.P Cocaine, says the energy drink's maker

Redux Beverages, the maker of controversial Cocaine energy drink, announced this week it will temporarily halt distribution of its product after the US Food & Drug Administration and other government branches threatened action.

Tata stirs healthier demand with joint venture

In a bid to tap growing consumer demand for healthier products, India-based Tata Tea has entered a joint venture with a Chinese company to produce value-added beverages.

Post-launch monitoring supports safety of phytosterol/stanols

Using phytosterol and stanol enriched margarines in everyday life stabilises cholesterol levels in a free-living population, and concerns over adverse effects seem unfounded with lower than recommended intakes being observed.

Studies support efficacy of Xangold lutein for eye health

A new human study has shown that Cognis' Xangold lutein and zeaxanthin ingredient is effective at boosting the eye health of those with early-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Gene foods could lead to consumers ruling the food industry

The emergence of foods based on nutrigenomics could spark a shift in the landscape of the food industry, says HortResearch's Karl Crawford, and the industry needs to start considering how it is going to cater for consumer demands.

Sabinsa fine tunes new lipoic acid for cosmeceuticals

Sabinsa Corporation has devised a new patented antioxidant ingredient - salts of lipoic acid - for functional use in cosmeceuticals and nutraceuticals.

GMPs on their way, White House tells Senator Hatch

Senator Orrin Hatch's office received notice that FDA's Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) legislation has received final clearance from the White House Office of Management and Budget, giving industry the signal to start preparing itself for the impending changes.

Cosmeceuticals focus

Cosmeceuticals not for everyone - Vitafoods told

Improving beauty from within via nutritional means is not for everyone, Dr. Marie Bejot, President of Laboratoire Oenobiol told attendees at Vitafoods, and should be used to address nutritional inadequacies.

Waitaki targets 'inner' beauty with new collagen ingredient

New Zealand's Waitaki Biosciences has launched a bovine collagen ingredient for the growing cosmeceutical and joint health markets.

New Zealand pushes innovation and trade at Vitafoods

New Zealand's nutraceutical industry is out in force at this year's Vitafoods exhibition, backed up by the country's trade and enterprise agency.

SupplySide East sees record numbers

Last week's SupplySide East show in Secaucus, New Jersey witnessed record participation, according to the trade show's organizers Virgo Publishing.

Verdure launches functional Benefruits ingredients

Verdure Sciences has launched a new line of proprietary nutraceutical fruit and vegetable based ingredients, Benefruits, for use in dietary supplements, functional food and beverage as well as personal care products.

FDA's CAM guidance ripe for misinterpretation, CRN

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has reported that the US Food & Drug Administration's CAM guidance fosters misinformation that certain Complementary and Alternative Medicine products should be regulated as drugs.

Weekly Comment

Ingredients for cheap?

As recent incidents of food contamination demonstrate, the cheapest source for ingredients may not turn out to be so cheap after all.

IADSA gets Codex to rethink nine additives

IADSA reports it is slowly succeeding in melting barriers to international trade of dietary supplements by influencing the Codex General Standard for Food Additives list set to affect the regulatory practices of governments worldwide.

Soy effective for cholesterol cuts - meta-analysis

Soy isoflavones and proteins are effective at reducing cholesterol levels and offer significant benefits for cardiovascular health, suggests a new meta-analysis from Japan.

Kids products marketed for nutrition may be misleading, ARS survey

The majority of foods marketed for children that highlight their healthy nutrient content were found to be high in saturated fat, salt and sugar, according to a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) nutritionist.

Science stacks up for CLAs weight management

Dietary supplementation with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) increased lean body mass, adding to previous studies supporting the weight management potential of the ingredient.

NIH plugs $4.4m into Echinacea/St.John's Wort

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have underscored their support for research into the herbals echinacea and St. John's Wort through a $4.4m grant.

Folic acid fortification should included B12, study

Fortification of grains to reduce the risk of neural tube defects should include vitamin B12 along with folic acid, says a new study from Canada.

Supplements could save $24b in healthcare costs, DSEA

A recently released study supports what the dietary supplement industry has been saying all along: the industry could save the nation billions of dollars in healthcare expenditure.

New ingredient range targets cosmeceutical market

Following a 12-month cosmetic testing programme, Irish health care provider Alltracel has announced the global launch of a range of dermal health ingredient solutions for the cosmeceuticals market.

Clinical trial backs Fabuless efficacy

DSM's proprietary ingredient Fabuless, formulated in yoghurt, stopped weight gain after weight loss, says a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.

Science builds behind immune boosting microalgae derivative

Daily supplements of the microalgae-derived supplement Immulina boosted the immune system in healthy, young and elderly adults, says a clinical study from Denmark.

CAM guidance comment period not to be extended, FDA

The American Herbal Products Association was informed by the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) yesterday that, contrary to the association's requests, the agency will not be extending the comment period on the draft guidance pertaining to the CAM industry.

Nestlé launches probiotic infant formula in US

Infant formula is getting increasingly more functional with Nestlé's announcement this week that it is launching formula with probiotic Bifidobacterium lactis, BIFIDUS BL, for the United States.

PharmaNutrients seeks partner for CLA-atherosclerosis projects

PharmaNutrients is looking to take CLA into the heart health arena, after obtaining the exclusive worldwide rights to the Kritchevsky patent on reduction of atherosclerotic plaques.

Lonza invests in vitamin K assets and technology

Lonza is building the technological basis of its nutrition business with the acquisition of assets from Canada's SAM Electron Technologies, plus the license for innovative and ecological vitamin K production technology.

There's a new advertising sheriff in town, say CRN/NAD

The Council for Responsible Nutrition and the National Advertising Division (NAD) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus are looking to coral together culprits in the dietary supplement industry who advertise using false claims, by means of a campaign directed at self-regulation.

Frutarom targets bladder health with Go-Less

Israeli company Frutarom claims to be launching the first formulation to targets both the symptoms and causes of incontinence and an overactive bladder.

South African herbs may offer blood pressure benefits

The flora of South Africa is increasingly being studied as a source of novel nutraceuticals, and Tulbaghia violacea (wild garlic) may find a role in helping to lower blood pressure, researchers told the 120th annual meeting of the American Physiological Society

ADM posts modest increases in 'challenging' Q3

Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) has reported a modest third quarter increase in income, with a strong performance from its corn processing segment boosting flagging profits in other divisions.

Tart cherries could help against metabolic syndrome

Adding powdered tart cherries to the diet may lower cholesterol, lead to less fat storage and improve antioxidant defences, says a rat study from the US with implications for metabolic syndrome.