Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North America

B vitamins fail to slow cognitive decline, says study

Daily supplements of B vitamins for people with high homocysteine levels do not affect cognitive performance compared to placebo, says a new study from New Zealand.

AOAC to update industry on analytical methods

AOAC, the not-for-profit organisation contracted by NIH Office of Dietary Supplements to develop validated analytical methods, will give an update of progress on key ingredients at NNFA.

Bunge targets snack bar makers with protein enhancement system

Leading oilseed producer Bunge has developed a new process to incorporate protein into candy bars, which the company claims does not have a negative impact on the product's texture and taste.

Milk thistle compound could protect against lung cancer

A flavanone compound in milk thistle, silibinin, stopped lung cancer growth and spread in mice, says research from the University of Colorado.

Nutrition Formulators develops dissolving supplements for less

Nutrition Formulators has developed a new orally dissolving tablet for nutraceuticals, which could help companies attract customers who avoid taking daily supplements because they have an aversion to swallowing pills - without having to pay pharmaceutical prices.

Hibiscus extract could protect heart, suggests lab study

An extract from the flower of the hibiscus plant prevented oxidation of LDL-cholesterol that contributes to hardening of blood vessels and heart disease, says research from Taiwan.

Soy isoflavones could improve mood, mental function

Isoflavones from soy could help preserve cognitive function and mood in post-menopausal women, according to Italian researchers.

Origo identifies dairy cholesterol inhibitor

Start-up Origo Biosciences has discovered the presence of an anti-cholesterol immunoglobulin in milk and is investigating its commercialisation as an ingredient for functional foods that may, one day, give plant sterols a run for their money.

LycoRed enters the US premix market

LycoRed Corp is taking on the US vitamin and mineral premix market, drawing on five years' experience in Europe to garner opportunities in the US market as fortification grows beyond traditional areas.

Guest article

Proprietary technology and the business transaction

With the present shift in the nutraceuticals industry toward more R&D investments, companies are required to give more serious thought to protecting their proprietary technology in business transactions. There are preparatory steps that can be taken prior to any discussions or negotiations that can help minimize the inherent risks.

Vitamin K focus

Strong support for vitamin K's bone health benefits

Increased intake of vitamin K, both from diet and supplements, has a significant impact on bone health and "striking" reductions in hip fractions, says a new meta-analysis.

Congress members badger FDA over GMPs

The long-running push for dietary supplement good manufacturing practices (GMP) has taken a new twist, as members of Congress sent letters to the FDA expressing hope that they will be finalized and implemented months earlier than is currently planned.

Competition drives partnerships in omega-3 market

Puleva Biotech has signed an agreement with US-based The Wright Group for its Eupoly fish oils to be used in a new line of microencapsulated powders, becoming the latest supplier to shore up its presence in an ever more crowded market.

Cargill develops fiber-rich crispy ingredient

Cargill has developed a new fiber-rich ingredient that resembles a rice crisp, targeting food makers' needs for pleasingly textured, taste-free fiber ingredients in mainstream foods.

ONC recovers from fire, ramps up capacity

Ocean Nutrition has restored its spray drying capabilities at its facility in Arcadia, Wisconsin, following a fire in October 2005, and is ramping up production at its Dartmouth plant with a view to doubling microencapsulation capacity in 18 months.

Kellogg takes healthy products into pharmacy aisle

Kellogg's health and wellness division is about to birth its first products: protein-fortified waters, snack bars and meal bars that will take the Special K brand out of cereals and into the pharmacy aisle.

ADM wheat protein ingredient to bind health bars

ADM is targetting the burgeoning healthy snacks market, launching a wheat protein isolate that mimics the properties of sugar as a binder in reduced sugar applications.

More support for olive polyphenol in bone health

The olive polyphenol, oleuropein, reduces bone loss in a rat model of osteoporosis, say researchers at France's INRA, as science continues to accumulate linking the olive extract with bone health.

Low carb diet could benefit obese diabetics, says study

Sticking to a low-carbohydrate diet with some limits of calories has long-term benefits on body weight and blood sugar levels, says a new study from Sweden, but a leading diabetes charity advises against following such a diet.

National Starch features soluble fiber for beverages at IFT

Adding fiber to beverages, dairy products and soups is a major focus for ingredients giant National Starch, which is featuring a water soluble fiber product at the ongoing IFT food expo in Orlando.

Daidzein from soy linked to heart health benefits

Increasing levels of daidzein, an isoflavone found in soy, have been linked to significant improvements in cholesterol levels and could boost heart health, says a new study.

Omega-3s may help depressive kids - pilot study

Increasing omega-3 intake from the diet or supplements may help depressive kids, reports a pilot study for the first time.

Fuji reformulates AstaREAL for vegetarians

Fuji Health Sciences has reformulated its AstaREAL powder to exclude components of animal origin - a move that will open up more uses of the ingredient in supplements that are suitable for vegetarians.

PLT hires rabbi for kosher policosanol evaluation

PL Thomas is now offering kosher-certified policosanol, meeting growing demand from nutraceutical manufacturers for these ingredients.

Industry hails bill on adverse events reporting

An amendment to the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act that would obligate supplement manufacturers, packers and distributors to notify FDA of any serious adverse events reports (AERs) was introduced yesterday, to the applause of the industry associations.

Increased choline intake could cut CVD risk, suggests study

Increased intake of choline, a nutrient found in meat, milk and eggs, can reduce circulating levels of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to increased risk of heart disease, says a study.

Soy-rich diet cuts prostate cancer marker

Two servings of soy a day reduced levels of the prostate cancer marker PSA in free-living men by 14 percent, but didn't affect testosterone levels, says a new pilot study from Hawaii.

More support for omega-3 calming ADHD kids

Supplements of omega-3 and omega-6 improved the attention span and hyperactivity scores of young Australians, and was rated better than the common medication Ritalin.

New dietary guidelines promote heart health

New dietary guidelines published by the American Heart Association (AHA) recommend that Americans consume less fat and sugar, and more vegetables and whole grains in order to optimize heart health.

Folic acid fortification boosting adolescent health

Adolescents, an often overlooked population, could also be reaping the benefits of folic acid fortification of enriched grain products with lower levels of a marker of cardiovascular disease (CVD), says a new study.

CoQ10 focus

CoQ10 uses and awareness in Europe and the US

CoQ10 continues to be popular with European skin care formulators, whereas US supplement-makers are more eager to leverage research on its internal energy-boosting abilities, data suggests. Moreover, European consumers may not be as aware of the health benefits as their American counterparts.

Beer extract could protect against prostate cancer

The flavonoid xanthohumol found in hops could help prevent prostate cancer, but the scientists suggest supplements rather than beer for exploiting the potential benefits.

Gencor launches appetite control Slimaluma in US

Gencor Pacific is introducing Slimaluma, an appetite suppressant extracted from Caralluma Fimbriata for use in dietary supplements, which it expects to carve its own market niche despite recent launches of other similar ingredients.

Citrus peel extract shows benefits for diabetes

A daily supplement of an extract from citrus peel could reduce insulin resistance in hamsters, suggesting the extract might also help prevent diabetes in humans, says a North American study.

Lipid Nutrition, Tempo get ready for Canadian functional foods

Lipid Nutrition is teaming up with distributor Tempo Canada to position its ingredients for use in Canadian functional foods and previously untapped areas of the supplements market.

Nestlé enters weight management with Jenny Craig

Swiss food giant Nestlé is making a leap into weight management with the acquisition of Jenny Craig, a company offering weight loss consultation and products in North America, Australia and New Zealand.

Martek deal pits General Mills against Kellogg in omega-3 race

The race is on to see which of two leading cereal makers will be the first to place an omega-3 fortified product on shelves, following a new license and supply agreement between Martek and General Mills that is substantially similar to that which the biotech struck with Kellogg 18 months ago.

Olive oil gains popularity on health claims and Mediterranean tastes

The health benefits associated with olive oil together with an increased interest in Mediterranean foods have contributed to the growth of an "invigorated" market for the product in the US, according to a new report.

Weekly comment

Litigation: a necessary cost of doing business?

In the US, the role of court action in defining limits not set by regulators is generating a flood of costly court cases for the food industry: much unnecessary, and all damaging.

Vitamin-producing bacteria could lead to cheaper fortified dairy

Adding riboflavin-producing bacteria to standard yoghurt could boost the nutritional value and cut costs of conventional fortification, suggests a joint Argentine-Dutch study.

Seditol helps sleepless in Cincinnati

A recent study found 88 percent of participants had better sleep after taking Next Pharmaceuticals' Seditol - findings that could encourage use of the blend of botanical extracts over drugs.

Advitech finalises France deal, secures financing

Advitech has secured two-part interim financing totalling C$350,000 to assist in ongoing commercialisation of its psoriasis product from sweet whey, Dermylex. The boon for the Canadian company coincides with the finalisation of its first marketing and distribution deals, with France's Cothera.

CardiaBeat set for US supplements entry

Israeli ingredient company Enzymotec has cleared the way for the use of its sterol-based heart health ingredient CardiaBeat in dietary supplements, with its approval as a new dietary ingredient (NDI) by the FDA.

More support for selenomethionine bioavailability

A new study from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine supports other studies that selenomethionine is more bioavailable than selenium selenite and high-selenium yeast.

FDA shakes up debate over functional chocolate

The marketing of functional confectionery products has been called into question following an FDA warning letter sent to Masterfoods USA over health claims and folic acid in its CocoaVia chocolate bars.

Whole Grains Council reveals new weight-based stamp

The Whole Grains Council is to change the design of its characteristic stamp in a move to avoid potential regulatory uncertainty surrounding its use of the terms 'excellent' source or 'good' source. The new stamp will indicate the number of grams of whole grain ingredients in a serving.

Strong evidence for lignans' breast cancer protection

A high intake of plant lignans could reduce the risk of breast cancer for pre-menopausal women by 78 per cent, says new research from Germany that adds significantly to the current body of science.

International joint venture to boost Fibersol-2 sales

Archer Daniels Midland and Matsutani Chemical have solidified a joint venture to enhance worldwide sales and marketing of soluble fiber Fibersol-2 as interest in this type of ingredient is predicted to rise.

Preparing for Canada's functional food regulations

Canadian associations are collaborating to open lines of communication between industry, academics and the government over the forthcoming regulations for functional foods, and to help the industry prepare for the future.

PacificHealth seeks partners to tap satiety technology potential

PacificHealth Laboratories is preparing for the launch of the first products containing its Satietrim satiety ingredient, and is looking for partners to help speed its use in more foods available at retail.

CoQ10 focus

Science searches for new CoQ10 benefits

As the science behind the understanding of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) expands, so does the list of health conditions that could potentially benefit from supplements.

GLS tailors toxicology to supplements

Global Lifescience Solutions (GLS) is poised to apply toxicology to the dietary supplements industry pending Good Manufacturing Practice regulations.

Experts discuss DRIs, with vitamin D changes getting strong support

The upper limit (UL) of vitamin D should be raised to 250 micrograms per day, the Institute of Medicine heard last week, as experts discussed the state-of-play of DRIs and ULs.

Coffee could reduce risk of alcoholic cirrhosis, study finds

A study has found drinking four or more cups of coffee per day could reduce the risk of alcoholic cirrhosis by 80 percent, suggesting that an ingredient in coffee may protect against this type of chronic liver disease.

PLT strengthens ties with Spain's Polinat

PLThomas has announced it a strategic alliance with Polifenoles Naturales (Polinat) of Spain to develop and market new ingredients - an arrangement that will also help the Spanish company conquer the US market.

Carotenoids linked to lower risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

High daily intakes of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as vegetables in general, could reduce the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma by almost 50 per cent, says a new study.

More support for cinnamon extract benefits for diabetics

A daily supplement of an aqueous cinnamon extract improved blood-glucose levels in type-2 diabetics by over ten percent, say German researchers - supporting previous studies into the benefits of the spice for diabetic.

FWS reverses wild ginseng five-year export rule

The US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has performed a U-turn over the ban imposed last year on the export of five-year-old wild American ginseng roots - a decision met with relief from an industry that feared years of decline while plants matured to catch up with the regulation.

LycoRed strengthens position in US carotenoid market

LycoRed is establishing its first carotenoid manufacturing base in the US with the acquisition of ingredient supplier H.Reisman Corporation - allowing it to meet the demands of North American clients more quickly.

Custard goes functional with bioactive ingredients

Custard could soon be going functional with soy isoflavones or antioxidants from olive oil, as research from the Netherlands shows that the popular dessert can easily be enhanced and release these bioactive ingredients.

Research center to bridge Canadian commodities and health

Canada's University of Manitoba is already enticing nutraceutical and functional food companies to its new research centre - providing an axis point for industry, researchers and government in the subject.

Accelerade studies support protein role in sports nutrition

The addition of protein to sports drink formulations delivers benefits for performance, rehydration and muscle recovery says PacificHealth Laboratories, following four studies that tested its Accelerade drink against carbohydrate-only sports drinks.

Mango cookies could boost dietary fibre intake, says research

Extracts from mangos are a rich source of dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble, with good antioxidant properties and can easily be used in bakery products to boost public consumption, say Latin American researchers.

Martek ruling paves way for more DHA in Canadian food

Martek DHA, approved for use in infant formula in Canada since 2002, has obtained federal consent for use at higher doses in a variety of foods, paving the way for food companies to offer products with greater omega-3 content.

Baby formula boom boosts Martek sales

Increased international sales from a thriving infant formula market drove up Martek's net income by almost 85 percent in Q2, and new deals point to positive results for the remainder of the year.

Whole gains, functional breads revitalize market, says report

The popularity of whole grains and a growing trend to fortify baked goods with functional ingredients has added a new dynamic to an otherwise mature US bread market, says a new report.

Women on the pill could benefit from Q10, vit E

Women taking oral contraceptives have lower levels of the antioxidants coenzyme Q10 and vitamin E, and could possibly benefit from supplements, suggests a new study.

Chilled, cut fruit keep nutrients as well as fresh

Minimal processing of fruit - cutting, packaging and chilling - does not affect the nutritional content even after nine days, says an international study that could promote healthy eating on a limited time-scale.

CRN seeks botanicals expert for in-house scientific team

The Council for Responsible Nutrition is seeking to expand its team of scientific experts with the appointment of an in-house botanicals expert to build awareness of research in the field and represent the organisation before government and regulatory bodies.

Eniva takes VIBE abroad

Eniva Corporation, the maker of liquid 'all-in-one' nutritional supplement VIBE, has expanded its sales network to include Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

CoQ10 focus

Expansions and new suppliers ease CoQ10 bottleneck

The gap between demand and global supply of potent antioxidant coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is narrowing, as major manufacturers expand their capacity and new sources enter the marketplace.

Antioxidant-rich soy sauce could protect against CVD

Adding a dash of sauce of dark soy sauce to your daily diet could improve antioxidant levels and decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, say scientists from Singapore.

Metagenics acquires Euro distributor in expansion drive

Californian nutraceutical developer Metagenics is firming up its presence in Europe with the acquisition of Biodynamics, which helped it make its first inroads into the Benelux countries as a distributor to health care professionals.

NMI encourages manufacturers to make health claims

Consumers actively seek out products with specific health claims on their labels, according to the Natural Marketing Institute - a factor that may encourage companies to solicit approvals from FDA or cater to specialist diets.

Omega-3, quercitrin combo could ease bowel inflammation

A combination of omega-3 fatty acids and the flavonoid quercitrin may work to reduce inflammation in the large intestine associated with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, says an animal study from Spain.

Zinc supplements could protect against CVD

Zinc supplements may decrease the risk of heart disease, says an animal study from Singapore, results that appear to support previous benefits afforded by the mineral.

Canada approves MEG-3 in higher doses, more foods

Health Canada has expanded its 2003 Novel Foods approval of Ocean Nutrition's MEG-3 to higher doses and more foods, giving the microencapsulated fish-oil supplier a head-start on new entrants to the market.

Pharmachem bean extract granted GRAS

Pharmachem Laboratories has received affirmation that its white bean-derived carb-blocker is generally recognised as safe (GRAS) - news that is expected to speed the launch of the first foods and drinks containing the ingredient.

FDA report makes room for healthy away-from-home foods

A new US Food & Drug Administration report could spell market opportunities for healthy ingredients as it aims to heighten awareness of the nutritious potential for foods eaten or prepared away from the home.

US market to see more natural baobab for use in cosmetics, food

A Canadian and an African company are set to tap the emerging market for baobab ingredients for use in cosmetic and functional food applications. The two firms recently teamed up to market the ingredient in North America.

New support for coffee's heart protection benefits

Antioxidants from coffee may reduce the risk of postmenopausal women developing cardiovascular disease, report researchers from Norway and the US - lending more support to previous studies on the beverage's potential benefits.

Campina buys Argentine dairy ingredient maker Inovatech

Campina has bought dairy ingredient producer Inovatech Argentina, signalling the Dutch-owned company's desire to reach further into the global specialized ingredients market, with an particular emphasis on nutrition.

TSI completes shift towards production, changes name

Technical Sourcing International has completed its evolution from ingredients sourcing and distribution to production, and is preparing for its second decade with a new name to better represent its activities: TSI Health Sciences.

Nutrition labels on menus ineffective alone, study finds

A survey conducted at the University of Vermont suggests legislation requiring restaurants to account for the nutritional and caloric content of their food will be ineffective if it is not accompanied by an education campaign.

Europharma launches omega-3 powder Vectomega

Europharma has introduced the ingredient Vectomega - a dry water soluble powder source of omega-3 the company claims has an absorption level 50 times that of fish oils - to the US market.

Guar gum derivative could reduce gut inflammation

Increasing intake of foods with a functional partially hydrolysed guar gum (PHGG) ingredient could reduce gut inflammation by over 20 per cent, according to a Japanese study with mice.

Obese could benefit from more fiber, from diet and supplements

Dietary fiber may play a key role in obesity, suggest study results that may lead to high fiber products aimed specifically at the obese.

Vitamin Angel calls on industry to help Indonesian quake relief

The Vitamin Angel Alliance is asking the supplements industry to donate multi-vitamins to Indonesian earthquake relief efforts, to help lower the likelihood of infections and diseases that threaten to compound the tragedy.

Microencapsulation takes natural stress-fighter into more products

Relora, the plant-derived stress-fighter from Next Pharmaceuticals, may now be used in a broader range of food products, including effervescent drinks, thanks to new microencapsulation technology.