Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North America EU edition

Rat study: Krill beats fish omega-3s in battling metabolic dysfunctions

Omega-3s sourced from krill are more effective than fish oil in combating some metabolic symptoms including raised fat levels in the heart and liver and violent mood swings in obese individuals, according to Italian researchers.

News in brief

FDA announces Reportable Food Registry discussion dates

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced three public meetings to discuss the Reportable Food Registry, to explain its role and the responsibilities of those who are required to submit a report.

Red yeast rice demonstrates cholesterol-lowering potential

American researchers have found red yeast rice to be effective in treating hyperlipidemia – the elevation of potentially damaging lipids in the blood – but who cannot tolerate statin treatment.

Consumers want more private label products: Survey

More than 90 percent of American consumers say they are likely to continue buying store brands even after the economy improves, and nearly half would like to see more of them, according to a new survey.

FDA complaint filed for Bayer selenium cancer claims

In the next episode of the recent selenium saga, a formal complaint was yesterday filed with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requesting that the agency seize stocks of Bayer vitamins for making misleading prostate cancer health claims.

Harvard paper spells out importance of nutrient pairs

Researchers from Harvard Medical School have stressed the importance of consuming certain nutrients together, suggesting that consumption guidelines for individual nutrients form only part of the puzzle of good nutrition.

Weekly comment

Confusion reigns in cosmeceutical name game

The term cosmeceutical has always been controversial, but the blurring boundaries between the worlds of nutrition and cosmetics are highlighting divisions that neither industry can ignore.

Soy linked to lung benefits: Study

The consumption of soy products could decrease the risk of lung disease and breathlessness, according to a new study from Japan.

News in brief

Asia seeks health claims harmonisation

Brussels-based consultancy, EAS, reports a health claims meeting held this month in Singapore has highlighted concerns among industry and regulators especially in regard to harmonisation.

New botanical guide provides identity info for supplements

A new resource on botanical extracts aims to provide guidance to industry on how to ensure the identity and efficacy of raw materials used in dietary supplements.

Blood glucose control ranks high in US death causes

High blood glucose levels are one of the most common killers of Americans, according to new research from Harvard researchers.

Female soldiers benefit from iron supplements, say researchers

The physical and cognitive performance of female soldiers can be improved if they are given iron supplements, according to new research.

Major natural products firms commit to cause-marketing coupons

A nationwide coupon-book initiative that aims to engage natural product consumers with childhood nutrition is in its final stages of set-up, with interested manufacturers able to apply for participation until July 15.

Omega-3 deficiency causes 96,000 US deaths per year, say researchers

Omega-3 deficiency is the sixth biggest killer of Americans and more deadly than excess trans fat intake, according to a new study.

No additional weight loss with CLA, arginine combo: Rat study

Conjugated linolenic acid (CLA) and L-arginine consumed together have separate but not additive effects on weight loss, according to a study conducted on rats.

DSM courts academia with Science Awards

Manfred Eggersdorfer, director of research and development at DSM Nutritional Products, sat down with Shane Starling to discuss the value of open innovation and business/academia interaction after the 2009 DSM Science and Technology Awards in Switzerland recently.

Science group ‘clarifies’ probiotics definition

The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) has released a “clarified definition” of the term ‘probiotic’, which it says will help manufacturers and regulators ensure the proper use of the bacteria.

Dispatches from IFT

Whey- and flax-based emulsifiers target reduced cost

Glanbia Nutritionals has developed an emulsifier line for longer shelf life and cleaner labels in a move toward ingredients targeting added productivity and profitability, rather than just added nutrition.

Americans warming to probiotics, says Datamonitor

Probiotics are picking up in the US market as consumers become more aware of their role in maintaining digestive health, says Datamonitor.

News in brief

NIH steps up ChromaDex phytochemical collaboration

The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) has set up a purchasing agreement with phytochemical firm ChromaDex, designed to provide its various groups with easier access to the firm’s products and services.

Honey extract may ease heat stress for cyclists: Study

An extract from propolis, the waxy resin collected by honeybees, may reduce the detrimental effects prolonged exercising in hot climates, according to a new study.

Antioxidant supplement shows potential against AMD

A combination of antioxidant pigments and vitamins may slow down sight loss in elderly people, according to researchers from Queen’s University, Belfast.

Transparency meeting: What’s behind FDA enforcement, asks industry

Enforcement action by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a key area where more open communication with industry is necessary, the agency will hear today during a public meeting on transparency.

Ocean Spray – Decas cranberry dispute steps up a notch

Two leading North American cranberry producers – Ocean Spray and Decas Cranberry Products – have turned to the courts in a fight to maintain competitive positions and market shares for their sweetened dried cranberry products.

Omega-3 may boost heart health for diabetics

Daily supplements of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce levels of compound in the blood of diabetics linked to heart disease, says a new study from Iran.

Could probiotics affect behaviour?

Increasing knowledge of how the gut and brain is opening up the possibilities for probiotics. At the 5th International Yakult Symposium in Amsterdam, Stephen Daniells met Professor John Bienenstock from McMaster University to find out where the current thinking is with probiotics and brain health.

News in brief

Folic acid-cancer concerns rumble on

Concerns over a possible role of folic acid in development of colon cancer are continuing, as results of a rat study suggest the vitamin may promote tumour formation.

Major US trial to examine heart and cancer benefits of vitamin D, omega-3

The US government is backing what is said to be the largest randomized trial of vitamin D and marine omega-3, to examine their impact on the reduction of heart disease and cancer.

Selenium health claims: Too qualified to qualify?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said it could allow the use of certain – very qualified – health claims linking selenium intake to a reduced risk of bladder, prostate and thyroid cancer.

US food industry enlisted in the battle to curb obesity

Top US nutrition experts together with health organizations and leading doctors have joined forces to ask President Barack Obama to combat obesity by creating a Presidential Commission on Healthy Weights, Healthy Lives.

Green tea’s anti-prostate cancer potential gains support

Consuming green tea may reduce levels of compounds linked to prostate cancer progression, according to findings of a small study with 26 men with prostate cancer.

News in brief

Kiwis gain US nutraceutical market insights

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) has put together a data programme to assist local companies understand the US market and how to move into it.

Keys to functional foods success

When shopping, consumers very quickly decide on a brand’s worth and unless they are making positive ticks in their minds to an array of factors, it is likely they will pass your functional food by, according to a leading consultant.

Report: Health and beauty driving weight management sector

As obesity and health concerns abound, the competitive weight management market is expected to enjoy double-digit gains, reaching $726 billion by 2014, predicts a new report.

OTC erectile dysfunction supplement recalled

Georgia-based Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals has issued a total recall of its “sexual stimulant” dietary supplement, after it was found to be contaminated with the banned substance, benzamidenafil.

Antioxidants plus exercise may boost bones in older women

A combination of antioxidant supplements and resistance training may protect against bone loss in postmenopausal women, suggests a new study from Canada.

Cranberry and flax lead herbal supplement sales: Report

Data pooled from a number of market research sources indicates that sales of botanical and herbal dietary supplements have risen slowly but surely over the past year, with top selling products including cranberry and flaxeed.

Sabinsa’s ForsLean gains Korean fat reduction claim

A weight loss ingredient manufactured by Sabinsa has received approval in Korea, allowing for products to be sold in that market with a specific fat reduction health claim.

Exclusive interview

Food technologists ‘under attack’, says former IFT chief

Food technology is a profession under attack – and both industry and government need to invest to ensure its future, says former IFT president Dr John Floros.

News in brief

EpiCor immune ingredient passes bioavailability test

Ingredient firm Embria Health Sciences said independent testing for its EpiCor immune health ingredient has confirmed antioxidant bioavailability and quality standards.

Organic spirulina heads mainstream, says Valensa

Valensa International is launching a range of products it hopes will bring a mainstream dietary supplements audience to the niche algae extract.

Could vinegar be natural fat fighter?

Ordinary vinegar – acetic acid – may prevent the build up of fat, and therefore weight gain, according to results of a study with mice from Japan.

Organizations oppose new food safety bill

The Food Safety Enhancement Act has been broadly welcomed by industry but a group of organizations has issued a letter to the relevant committee voicing strong opposition to several of the bill’s provisions.

Bayer faces lawsuit for selenium cancer prevention ads

Bayer Healthcare could face a lawsuit in the United States for advertising that its One A Day vitamins could reduce prostate cancer due to their selenium content.

Isoflavones are safe and effective, say academics

Emerging human studies in isoflavones demonstrating the “modest but valuable benefit for menopause relief” presented at a symposium of almost 20 isoflavone experts in Italy should dismiss animal studies that have questioned the safety of the antioxidants, according to the US Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN).

Science supports dairy calcium for weight loss

Increased intakes of calcium can increase excretion of fat in the faeces, and may play a role in weight management and preventing weight gain, says a review of the science.

UK listeria cases soar as over 60s ignore “use by” dates

Incidents of listeria in the UK have doubled over the past decade as research reveals elderly people are more likely to expose themselves to the bacteria by eating food beyond its “use by” date.

News in brief

DSM wins Frost infant nutrition gong

DSM Nutritional Products has won a Frost & Sullivan award for Global Excellence in Quality in infant nutrition for implementing new safety standards.

Dispatches from IFT

Recession could create innovation opportunities

In today’s challenging economy, large companies are increasingly looking to buy innovative finished products rather than developing their own, says Blue Pacific CEO Donald Wilkes.

Fake Red Bull under investigation

The US International Trade Commission (USITC) is investigating several companies that may be responsible for importing and distributing energy drinks into the US that breach trademarks and copyright of market leader, Red Bull.

Nutrition vs Cost: Survey outlines consumer priorities

Over half of Americans are willing to spend more on healthier versions of food, but price remains a barrier for some, according to a new online survey.

CoQ10 may boost sperm quality: Study

Supplements of co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) may improve the motility and density of sperm in infertile men, according to a new study using Kaneka’s ingredient.

Omega-3 plus AREDS supplement works for eye health: Study

Higher intakes of the omega-3 fatty acids, combined with the age related eye disease and nutrition (AREDS) supplement, may reduce the risk of AMD, says a new study.

Congressional briefing positions supplements as preventative healthcare

Dietary supplements are key to the prevention of a number of health conditions, and as such they would form a cost-effective approach to healthcare reform, Congress heard in a recent briefing.

Dispatches from IFT

Superfruit success spawns Blue Pacific berry flavors

Blue Pacific Flavors has said it is focusing on traditional, authentic berry flavors as consumers have become more aware of ‘superfruits’ and their associated health benefits.

AERs reflect supplement usage patterns, says AHPA

The adverse event reporting system for dietary supplements is an association system, not a cause and effect system, says trade group AHPA, stressing that high numbers of AERs linked to multivitamins does not mean the products are dangerous.

Multivitamins linked to 25 percent of supplement AERs

Multivitamins and minerals were the subject of one quarter of Adverse Event Reports (AERs) filed with FDA in the first six months of last year, but this does not mean that this product category is problematic, says the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA).

News in brief

First Brazilian functional foods event reflects growing industry

Manufacturers of functional foods in Brazil are attending their second day of a health ingredients event in the country, which aims to tap into opportunities in the nation’s growing healthy foods sector.

Artificial gut cuts GI food development costs

An artificial gut that predicts the glycemic index (GI) and resistant starch in food products could bring cost-savings for formulators pushing new product development in health-positioned foods.

Dispatches from IFT

Ancient grain blend to plug gluten-free nutrition gap

ConAgra Mills has developed a gluten-free flour that claims to have superior nutritional qualities to white rice, potato and corn flours, made with a blend of ancient grains.

Weekly comment

IFT '09: In defence of trade shows

As the dust settles on another IFT the absence of several big players has left some questioning the relevance of trade shows in the 21st Century.

More support for heart healthy wholegrains

Consumption of wholemeal wheat foods may improve both total and ‘bad’ cholesterol levels, compared to refined foods, says new research from Italy.

News in brief

Hydroxycut warning spreads to UK

The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has warned consumers not to use Hydroxycut weight loss supplements six weeks after the products were recalled from the US market for a suspected connection with serious liver damage.

Hibiscus extract launched for heart health

Ingredient firm BioActives has launched a hibiscus extract on the US market, which the firm is marketing for its heart benefits.

Cocoa-derived Cirku launched for better circulation

Mars Botanical is launching a new flavanol-rich cocoa extract called Cirku for use in products aimed at maintaining healthy circulation.

Fee compromise eases US food safety bill to next stage

The bill designed to overhaul the failing US food safety system took a major step forward this week after a compromise over industry fees was reached.

Vitamin D linked to successful weight loss with dieting

Increased intakes of vitamin D may improve weight loss while following a calorie-restricted diet, according to new findings from the US.

Antioxidants-by-fermentation: One step closer to market

ChromaDex has received a grant to further develop a technology that can create anthocyanins via fermentation, which the firm says will allow it to test whether the process is viable on a commercial scale.

Brazil’s functional foods market broaches $4bn

Functional and fortified foods make up the biggest portion of the Brazilian health and wellness market, with growth of eight percent in 2007 and sales in excess of $4bn, according to Euromonitor.

News in brief

Seckman leaves NPA

The dietary supplements trade group Natural Products Association (NPA), is looking for a new executive director and CEO, after the resignation of David Seckman, who currently holds the position.

Sterol margarines: Low-doses best for heart health, says study

Frequent low doses of plant sterols may be more effective at cutting cholesterol levels than one daily dose, say findings of a new North American study.

News in brief

Sponsors sought for new food dictionary

The authors of a new online dictionary to give the names of food ingredients and products in 34 different languages are seeking sponsors to speed up translation.

Learning from functional foods failures

Eighty per cent of functional food product launches fail within 18 months, according to a new report that draws lessons from 15 high-profile failures from the likes of Danone, Emmi, Pepsico, Coca-Cola, Nestlé and Unilever.

Media slamming continues with ‘Big Herba’ attack

Many consumers are turning to dietary supplements as a way to avoid ‘Big Pharma’, but they may be facing a whole new realm of mass production, that doesn’t come with the same quality controls, according to an article in a leading US news service.

Dispatches from IFT

Betatene declared GRAS

Cognis has announced self-affirmed GRAS for its Betatene carotenoids, a development that allows it to be used in foods and beverages.

Kemin wins lutein patent renewal

Iowa-based supplier, Kemin Health, has been reissued patents first issued in 1995 that will “solidify its position” as a leading supplier of the eye health ingredient, lutein.

Plant proteins key to weight loss, healthy cholesterol, suggests study

A diet low in carbohydrates and high in plant-based proteins could improve blood cholesterol levels while promoting weight loss, according to a new study.

Dispatches from IFT

Antioxidant methods vital for ensuring health benefits: Expert

The implied health benefits of antioxidants are strong in the minds of consumers. Stephen Daniells talked to Covance’s Darryl Sullivan, associate director, scientific affairs on what tests are available, where we stand on cell-based tests, and what industry needs to do to ensure the antioxidant integrity of its products.

News in brief

Singapore approves five food health claims

The Singapore Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) has approved five nutrient and product-specific health claims that can now bear a ‘Healthier Choice’ symbol.

FDA aims for 200 GMP inspections this year

With two weeks to go before mid-sized supplement firms need to comply with new GMPs, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said it aims to inspect 200 facilities this fiscal year.

Canada ponders junk food fortification

Health Canada is considering granting food makers discretionary powers to fortify “junk foods” to improve their nutritional profile and the diets of Canadians.

Dispatches from IFT

Nanotech, termite diets and antioxidants in Anaheim

In this podcast, our journalists share their thoughts on what caught their eye during the last day of the IFT show in Anaheim, California.

Dispatches from IFT

HFCS, salmonella chocolate, and tasting black garlic in Anaheim

Debate over high fructose corn syrup, lessons from a salmonella scare, putting omega-3 into alcoholic beverages, and the potential of black garlic... the FoodNavigator team shares thoughts on the second day of the IFT trade show in Anaheim, California.

Dispatches from IFT

Nano iron could lead to big fortification future

Nano-complexes of iron and zinc could lead to improved opportunities for fortifying staples such as wheat and rice, according to early data from Switzerland.

News in brief

DSM gains nutrition award for NutriRice technology

Ingredients firm DSM has received the first GAIN business award for innovation in nutrition 2008, presented at a ceremony during the recent GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition) Business Alliance Global forum in Amsterdam.

Omega-3 science review supports DRI for heart benefits

A comprehensive review of studies on the benefits of omega-3 consumption has led scientists to recommend the establishment of a Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) for EPA and DHA to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Dispatches from IFT

Frutarom drinks to functional beverages at IFT

Frutarom is demonstrating the fruits of its latest acquisition by showcasing a range of functional beverage prototypes at the institute of Food Technologists (IFT) trade show in Anaheim, California.

Dispatches from IFT

Ganeden brings ‘probiotic cap’ drink to market

Probiotic supplier Ganeden has entered a new collaboration that allows the firm to store its ingredients in the cap of a beverage bottle, and dispense them into the drink at the point of consumption.

Cholesterol cuts not the only benefit from stanol yoghurts: Study

Daily consumption of stanol-enriched yoghurt may reduce cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels, according to new study from The Netherlands.

Weekly comment

A big day for European health claims

Next Monday, June 15, is a big day for the European healthy foods and food supplements industries. Let’s call it Big Monday. Or J15.

Dispatches from IFT

Innovation, food safety and economic pep talks in Anaheim

Top prizes for innovation, stevia capacity and taste tests, food safety, and doing business in a tough economy... the FoodNavigator team shares thoughts on the opening day of the IFT trade show in Anaheim, California.

‘Huge potential’ for CoQ10 in emerging markets, predicts analyst

Growth in the CoQ10 sector is likely to occur through expansions into new markets and new product categories, according to a Euromonitor market analyst.

Neptune enlists Bayer to develop drug-grade omega-3 krill

Neptune Technologies & Bioressources, the world’s leading krill supplier, has inked a deal with Bayer HealthCare to develop pharma-grade products in the US, as it continues its policy of partnering with key players in the functional foods, nutra, cosmetics and pharma worlds.

News in brief

DHA pregnancy sales drive Martek sales growth

DHA supplier Martek Biosciences has said growth in its product sales in the second quarter was led by the pregnancy and nursing market, whereas sales in the infant formula category were down on last year.

Vitamin K2 may boost bone health in adolescents

Supplements of vitamin K2 may improve bone health in prepubescent children, and potentially protect them from osteoporosis later in life, says a new study.

Consumer packaged goods companies show resilience in recession

The consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry in the US has shown resilience in the current recession and significantly outperformed the rest of the market in 2008, according to a report released this week.

FDA investigates weight loss drug Alli for liver damage

FDA is investigating the only over-the-counter weight loss drug – Alli – following signals that it could be linked to liver damage.

High-potency green tea extract launched

Blue California has launched a 95 percent EGCG tea extract it is targeting at functional foods and beverages as well as cosmeceuticals.

News in brief

Kellogg makes fiber commitment

Kellogg has pledged that by next year nearly 80 percent of its cereals sold in the US will be ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ sources of fiber.

Calcium-fortified ice cream ideal booster for bones?

Absorption of calcium from ice cream is no different than from low-fat milk, highlighting the potential of the summer treat as a potential bone health food, says a new study from Unilever.

FDA backs proposal for US industry fees to fund food inspections

A contentious proposal to compel US food manufacturers to contribute towards safety inspection costs took a step forward yesterday after the Food and Drug Administration signalled its backing for the idea.

Plant sterol crackers claim to be national first

A new sterol-containing cracker was launched across the US this week by leading nutritional snack firm Kashi, proving yet another indication that the sterol food category is slowly but surely expanding.

Cyvex launches flavonoid line for supplements and drinks

Cyvex Nutrition has launched its first line of flavonoid ingredients, in a bid to expand its antioxidant range into more purified forms.

News in brief

FDA changes website, updates information

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated the format of its website to make it more user-friendly, but the change means that some old URLs may no longer be valid.

Probiotic foods going medical

Public interest in probiotic foods and beverages has never been stronger and will continue to surge aided by medical fraternity interest, according to a recent Dannon and Yakult-funded meeting of international scientists and medical professionals.

Stevia reference standards developed for Food Chemical Codex

US Pharmacopeia (USP) has developed a set of new reference standards for stevia-derived sweeteners Reb A and stevioside for inclusion in the Food Chemical Codex (FCC).

Antioxidant vitamins may protect against female cancer

Increased intakes of vitamins C and E and beta-carotene may reduce the risk of cancer of the uterus, according to a new review and meta-analysis of the science to date.

News in brief

FoodNavigator Twittering from IFT

Stuck on the booth? Can’t make it to IFT this year? Let our journalists do the leg work for you. We will be sending updates via Twitter on news, innovations and the buzz from the show floor.

NutraIngredients-USA's future as part of William Reed

Don’t miss this video interview with Robert Marr, chief operating officer of William Reed Business Media, which recently acquired Decision News Media, publisher of NutraIngredients-USA.com.

Pharmachem eyes functional beverages potential

Pharmachem Laboratories has continues its aggressive expansion of recent years by purchasing a 130,000 square foot facility in Texas that will allow it to develop its presence in the functional beverages market.

Probiotic guidance that industry’s ‘been waiting for’

The International Probiotics Association (IPA) hopes that a new probiotics monograph issued by Health Canada will encourage other governments to provide clear positions on the ingredients.

Probiotics monograph is a work in the making, says IPA

Canada’s new probiotics monograph may be lacking, but it is a step in the right direction, according to the International Probiotics Association (IPA), which hopes the guidance will encourage other governments to provide clear positions on the ingredients.

Spirulina extract may reverse pain sensitivity

C-phycocyanin, a compound found in blue green algae like spirulina, may reduce inflammation and have pain killing effects, suggests a new study.

Omega-3 may improve blood pressure during weight loss

Consumption of fatty fish like salmon, or fish oil supplements, may reduce blood pressure during an energy-restricted diet, suggests a pan-European study.

Weekly comment

Economic depression a stimulus for fresh business

The economic recession is biting across the globe, and bleeding casualties litter all industries, but now is not the time to cower. Those willing to spend may provoke a stimulation of their business that could set them up for years, if not decades, to come.

News in brief

Stevia market development will ease price importance

The price of stevia sweeteners relative to sugar need not be an issue as the market develops, according to PureCircle, as supply chain investments are expected to encourage penetration.

Danone invests $7m in probiotic research

Global probiotics leader, Danone, has given $7m to a Canadian research institute towards building the body of science backing the various benefits of probiotic microorganisms.

FDA asks if supplement labeling notifications are a burden

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked the dietary supplement industry for feedback on the burden of notifying the agency of claims made on their product labels.

CLA-rich cheese may boost heart health: Study

Consuming cheese from ewe’s milk, rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), may reduce markers linked to heart disease, suggest results from a small Italian study.

Teen soy intake linked to lower breast cancer risk

High intakes of soy during adolescence may reduce the risk of breast cancer before the menopause by about 40 per cent, according to new data.

News in brief

China's new food safety law comes into force

Chinese authorities have said its new food safety law, which comes into effect today, will help prevent the food contamination incidents that have caused so much damage to the reputation of its domestic producers.

NutraIngredients-USA.com acquired by William Reed Business Media

Decision News Media, publisher of NutraIngredients-USA.com, NutraIngredients.com and 15 other websites serving the international food, nutrition, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, has been acquired by the leading UK business-to-business publisher William Reed Business Media.

Leading Japanese CoQ10 supplier to exit market

One of the leading global suppliers of CoQ10 – Japan’s Asahi Kasei Pharma – has said it is exiting the market by the end of the year, citing “continuing unprofitability”.

Supplements industry worth $61bn to US economy

An industry-funded report that looks beyond the checkout as a means of determining an industry’s value has come up with a figure of $61bn for the US dietary supplements industry – nearly three times its annual sales Of $23.7bn in 2007.