Prebiotics may enhance magnesium uptake from diet: Rat data

Prebiotic fibers may enhance the absorption and retention in rats, suggests new data from Purdue University with implications for bone health in postmenopausal women.

The Popeye myth? New findings suggest how spinach increases muscle power

Nitrate-rich vegetables, such as spinach, could have a ‘powerful effect’ on boosting muscle strength by increasing the levels of certain proteins, according to new research in mice.

June in pictures: The ORAC debate, stem cell nutrition and Olympic dreams

USPLabs hit back at DMAA critics, USDA quietly removed its online ORAC database and the FDA unveiled plans to re-issue a draft of its much-maligned draft guidance - all in...

IFT 2012: Day three in pictures. From high oleic soy to 'toxic' sugar...

Sleep deprived but indefatigable, the FoodNavigator-USA team powered through day three of the IFT show in Las Vegas, meeting experts on sugar metabolism, natural colors, high oleic cooking oils, immune...

Industry champion Hatch wins Utah republican primary

The dietary supplements industry in Utah and beyond has welcomed Sen. Orrin Hatch’s victory in his state's republican primary.

Study unlocks cholesterol-lowering activity of blueberry

The potential cardiovascular benefits of blueberry may be related to the berries’ anthocyanins interacting with bile acids to promote cholesterol reduction, suggests data from a study with hamsters.

Common dietary fibres may alter gut bacteria composition: Study

Consumption of common dietary fibres may promote beneficial shifts in gut bacteria that may lead to better intestinal health, suggesting the fibres may have prebiotic applications, say researchers.

IFT 2012: Day two in pictures. From whole algalin flour to the next generation of hot flavors

Day two of the IFT annual meeting and expo in Las Vegas, and the FoodNavigator-USA team was still standing (just about), roaming the aisles in search of innovation, inspiration (and...

Is new geranium analysis the ‘final nail in the DMAA coffin’?

Controversial ingredient DMAA is not detectable in plant material and oil from geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), says a new analysis that has been hailed as the ‘final coffin nail in the...

IFT 2012: Day one in pictures. From Ingredion to Elvis...

The IFT annual meeting and expo in Las Vegas started as it meant to go on, with inspirational speeches from Starbucks boss Howard Schultz and PepsiCo's R&D chief Dr Mehmood...

Cinnamon again linked to improved blood sugar control for diabetics: Support from China

Supplements of a cinnamon extract may help control blood sugar, as well as benefiting triglyceride levels in Chinese people with type-2 diabetes, says a new study.

IPA hails ‘huge move forward’ in NDI draft guidance revision

The International Probiotics Association (IPA) has hailed the announcement that FDA is revisiting its controversial new dietary ingredient (NDI) draft guidance, but has warned that more work is required.

Vitamin D tests ‘often’ inaccurate, say researchers

Inaccuracies in vitamin D blood tests may be confounding efforts to establish optimal recommended levels for health, warn researchers.

Cyanotech posts 46% hike in sales driven by strong demand for astaxanthin

Hawaii-based microalgae specialist Cyanotech has posted a 46% hike in revenues in fiscal year 2012 to $24.63m driven primarily by an increase in demand for the potent red antioxidant astaxanthin.

Big Interview: Peter Haferman, president, Improve USA

Improve USA: Aloe is already the biggest botanical on the planet, but it’s about to get even bigger…

It might be gracing the functional beverages aisles in Costco and Trader Joe’s, but if you “ask Joe in the street what Aloe Vera is, he’ll still say it’s something...

Apple peel compound may offer obesity promise

Ursolic acid from apple peels could help to fight obesity by increasing calories burned, according to new research in mice.

Monounsaturated dressings are best for salad nutrient absorption, says study

The type of fat used in dressings has a major impact on how well nutrients are absorbed from salads, according to new research.

US market can support ‘at least 1,100’ Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage stores, says IPO filing

The US market can support at least 1,100 Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage stores, claimed the Colorado-based retailer as it outlined plans to raise up to $115m in an initial...

Neptune secures US $25m in new orders for 2013 as Asian krill oil demand takes off

Neptune Technologies & Bioressources has secured “new and firm orders amounting to US$25M for calendar year 2013” for its krill oil, driven by strong demand from Asia.

When will the healthy blood sugar supplement market take off?

We’ve been telling people to lose weight, eat more complex carbs and do more exercise for years to get their blood sugar under control, says NutraBridge president Scott Steil. “But...

News in brief

Biothera’s Wellmune used in bread of Canadian retailer

Canadian food store chain Metro has introduced a new bread range containing immune health ingredient Wellmune WGP.

DMAA in the dock

Finland follows Sweden and bans DMAA

All Nordic nations except Norway have joined the UK in acting against the pre-workout stimulant DMAA, with Sweden and Finland joining Denmark in issuing withdrawal alerts or destroying products.

Coke takes first US dairy steps with ‘next generation’ beverage brand

The Coca-Cola Company has confirmed to BeverageDaily.com that it has signed a deal to distribute dairy-based sports recovery beverage Core Power as it targets early stage growth in an ‘exciting’...

Industry hopes Olympics will torch supplement contamination concerns

The Olympic Games have in the past brought the food supplements industry to the edge of its collective seat – but not necessarily in fevered anticipation of the world-class sporting...

NPA boss: Every industry has bad apples, but they must not ruin the batch

He might not have worked in the natural products industry, but John Spitaleri Shaw is also acutely aware that “highly technical, inside baseball talk” does not make for a winning...

Omega-3’s anti-inflammatory potential shows in overweight people

Supplements of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce levels of certain inflammatory markers by 10%, says a new study that claims to be the first to show omega-3 supplementation may alter...

Judge delivers more bad news for FTC on ‘two clinical trials’ standard

Further evidence that ‘competent and reliable scientific evidence’ to support claims on dietary supplements does not have to mean two well-controlled human intervention trials has emerged in a ruling in...

60-second interview: Joe Archer, All American Pharmaceutical

All American Pharmaceutical: 'There are a number of manufacturers that will always find ways to cheat and feel the risk is worth it'

With the future looking decidedly uncertain for pre-workout stimulant DMAA (1,3-Dimethylamylamine), attention is turning to alternatives, Joe Archer, VP sales and marketing at contract manufacturer All American Pharmaceutical tells Elaine Watson...

How to build a new brand in sports nutrition: The genesis of Herbalife24

“We decided to avoid lightning bolts and flexing biceps, the pure meathead bodybuilder look when designing our packaging", says Dr John Heiss, PhD, the lead scientist behind Herbalife24, the direct selling giant's new sports...

Gunning for Gold: Inside elite nutrition at the Olympics

With the Olympics due to kick off in London in just over a month, NutraIngredients takes a look at what it takes to be an athlete at the top - and...

Virtual gym: How the internet gave weekend warriors the key to the elite athlete’s locker room

Thanks to the internet, training tips and product advice that used to be the preserve of elite athletes and bodybuilders is now available to everyone, Brian Andrews, president of California-based...

Probiotics begin to flex their muscle in the sports nutrition market

The potential benefits of probiotic ingredients in sports nutrition products may extend beyond immune support, as emerging evidence suggests a potential to enhance protein utilization.

News in brief

NPA: Taskforce advice on Vit D and Calcium is out of step with current research

The Natural Products Association (NPA) has weighed into the debate over the role of calcium and vitamin D in reducing the risk of osteoporotic fractures following the publication of a...

Breaking news

Who says the FDA doesn't listen? Industry welcomes plan to issue revised draft NDI guidance

The FDA might have spent the past year vigorously defending its much-maligned draft guidance on new dietary ingredients (NDIs), but it appears it has been listening to industry concerns as well....

Bioactive whey proteins show benefits for blood vessels: Glanbia study

A whey-protein-rich ingredient may improve blood vessel function in people at high risk of cardiovascular disease, reports a new randomized, double-blind study supported by Glanbia.

Universal probiotic stamp could boost research & consumer understanding, says leading researcher

Probiotics should be classified by a Category Tree system in the US and Europe in order to better inform consumers and counter the impasse imposed by ‘bureaucrats’, says a leading...

Florida firm seeks partner to take game-changing blood glucose control ingredient to mass market

The Florida-based firm behind Emulin - the star ingredient in GNC’s glucose control supplement GC7X - is seeking a big gun in the ingredients supply market to help it engage...

Dispatches from Vitafoods Europe 2012

Nutraceutical industry needs new trial design culture: Research veteran

The multi-billion euro global nutraceutical industry will never achieve its potential until it better adapts pharma protocols – and this can be done with food nutrients, says Dr Stephen de...

Folate during pregnancy may benefit offspring’s emotions: Study

Low levels of folic acid during pregnancy may increase emotional health problems in children, says a new study.

Jarrow calls for Congressional hearings to address NDI guidance woes

Jarrow Formulas has raised its concerns about the FDA’s draft guidance on new dietary ingredients (NDIs) with House Speaker John Boehner as part of its campaign to alert members of Congress...

Vitamins C & E may benefit women on oral contraceptives

Supplements of vitamins C and E may protect against the increase in markers of oxidative stress in women receiving oral contraceptives, says a new study.

Vitamin D and calcium may increase life expectancy in elderly

Supplementation of vitamin D with calcium could help to increase life expectancy in elderly people, whilst vitamin D alone may not, say researchers.

DMAA in the dock

Australia issues DMAA alert; commences 'urgent' prohibition talks

Australian authorities have warned consumers about possible negative health effects of using sports supplements containing DMAA, as the global crackdown on the controversial stimulant continues.

Comment

Another week, another class action: Has ‘all-natural’ become too risky a claim?

Barely a week goes by without another food company being challenged in court over its use of the word ‘natural’ – and it’s just a matter of time before the...

LGG probiotic may protect day care kids from respiratory illness: Study

Long term consumption of milk containing the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG strain may protect children in day care from respiratory illness, says a new study from Finland.

CLA’s potential heart benefits linked to protein regulation

The potential heart health benefits of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) may be linked to its ability to alter protein expression in platelets, says a new study that may explain some...

California judge allows DMAA class action v Nutrex Research to proceed

A class action lawsuit filed against Nutrex Research over the safety and regulatory status of supplements containing DMAA (1,3-Dimethylamylamine) has been given the green light to proceed by a judge...

Was the USDA right to drop its online ORAC database?

More commentators have weighed into the debate over the value of ORAC data following the USDA’s decision to remove its ORAC database from its website.

BASF expands R&D center in Tarrytown, NY

BASF has expanded its R&D center in Tarrytown, New York as part of its strategy to provide a global network of technical and application support.

Moringa oleifera trumps superfruit rivals in ORAC tests

Powder from the leaf of the Moringa Oleifera plant - a nutrient powerhouse claimed to rival baobab - has outperformed antioxidant-packed superfoods including acai, dark chocolate, garlic and blueberries in...

Florida firm accused of serious cGMP violations and unauthorized disease claims

Private label supplement distributor Caribe Natural has been warned by the FDA that it is still responsible for violations of current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations and making drug claims...

Dispatches from Vitafoods Europe 2012

Stability remains key challenge for probiotics: Chr. Hansen

Creating probiotic formulations that are stable to intense processing conditions and have a long shelf life remains a key challenge for the industry.

Stemtech: Stem cell nutrition could eclipse antioxidant supplement market

The emerging field of stem cell nutrition has the “potential to eclipse the massive antioxidant supplement business” according to the boss of the Californian firm responsible for creating a completely...

Stem cell nutrition deal establishes Marinova as undisputed world leader in Fucoidan

A deal to supply Stemtech International - the leading player in stem cell nutrition supplements - with one of its proprietary marine plant extracts will establish Marinova as the undisputed...

Dispatches from Vitafoods Europe 2012

A century of vitamins: “Casimir Funk changed the world”

100 years ago the Polish biochemist Casimir Funk invented the term vitamins, and with it modern micronutrient science was born.

Nordic Naturals taps into demand for ‘fishless fish oil’ with new algal EPA/DHA products

Omega-3 supplement specialist Nordic Naturals has met growing demand for products that deliver the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA - minus the fish - with the launch of...

News in brief

CRN-I heads to Germany for 3rd scientific symposium in December

CRN-International (CRN-I), the international arm of the Council for Responsible Nutrition, will return to Kronberg im Taunus, Germany, on December 1, to host its third scientific symposium.

CRN: USPSTF report does not change expert view re. calcium benefits

UPDATED - A new report suggesting there is not enough evidence to conclude that supplementation with calcium and vitamin D can help prevent cancer and osteoporotic fractures in adults "does...

Omega-3 dementia benefits questioned by new Cochrane review

Omega-3 supplements are unlikely to prevent cognitive declines and dementia in the elderly, according to a review of the evidence published by the Cochrane Collaboration.

All change at ChromaDex again as CEO quits less than five months after taking helm

ChromaDex chief executive Jeffrey Himmel has resigned less than five months after taking the helm at the California-based firm, along with chief operating officer Debra Heim, who joined the team...

ORAC has ‘ongoing value’, says expert, as USDA removes online database

The ORAC tests for antioxidant activity still have value for nutrition, but marketers should stick to the science if its value is to be passed on to consumers, says a...

Natural Products Association names John Shaw as its new CEO

Washington DC insider and former administration official John Spitaleri Shaw has been named as the new chief executive and executive director of the Natural Products Association (NPA).

EFSA health claim opinion

Prunes can help bowel movement after all, says EFSA in about face

The re-evaluation of studies dating back to 1991 for a rejected health claim dossier has convinced the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) that prunes can aid bowel movement after all.

FDA: All-natural dietary supplement Reumofan Plus contains prescription drugs

Lab tests on Reumofan Plus, a dietary supplement made in Mexico and marketed as a natural pain reliever, show that it contains at least two prescription painkillers, the Food and...

Could null pharma trials negatively impact omega-3 dietary supplements?

The failure of a pharmaceutical grade omega-3 product to modify cardiovascular events in high-risk patients may impact the dietary supplements market, but industry educational efforts should minimize the impact.

Pharma-food gap will be bridged, but taste is always key: Nestlé

The gap between pharmaceutical ‘treatments’ for disease and the role that foods and supplements can play in health will grow ever smaller, but as ever, taste is the key to...

Omega-3s may lower heart failure risk by 15%: Meta-analysis

Increased intakes of omega-3s and higher blood levels of the fatty acids are associated with a 15% decrease in the risk of heart failure, says a new meta-analysis.

Vitamin C shows exercise benefits: Human data

Daily supplements of vitamin C may decrease heart rate during exercise and reduce the perception of fatigue and exertion, suggests new data.

Live from Boston

GOED Exchange 2012 as it happened

Last week's GOED Exchange brought together industry heavyweights, leading academics, industry observers, and assorted experts from the omega-3 world for presentations and discussions of the latest research in this multi-million...

Our brand-building strategy is paying off, says Schiff Nutrition boss

Schiff Nutrition’s decision to pump all available cash into branding and innovation instead of deep discounts has paid off for its Move Free joint care brand, with posted a 25%...

Continuation application on Neptune krill oil patent is allowed by USPTO

Neptune Technologies and Bioressources says the US Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) has allowed a continuation patent application that strengthens claims in its recently-awarded US patent #8,030,348.

Dispatches from Vitafoods Europe 2012

Omega-3 suppliers must know their consumers

Omega-3 suppliers must get to grips with their manufacturing customers and with consumers if they are to market their products successfully, according to Virpi Varjonen, executive consultant at commercialisation agents...

Indonesia emerges as alternative turmeric/curcumin supply source to India

UPDATED: Botanical extracts distributor Phytochem International has struck a deal with Chinese firm Ningbo Traditional Chinese Pharmaceutical Co to introduce 95% curcuminoids from turmeric sourced from Indonesia - a first...

Novel fiber paves way for next generation of heart healthy baked goods

The firm behind a novel fiber claimed to reduce oxidized LDL cholesterol - an emerging risk factor for heart disease - is in talks with bakers about using it in...

Pomegranate peel extract shows prebiotic potential

Polyphenol-rich extracts from pomegranate peel may selectively enhance the growth of potentially beneficial gut bacteria, suggesting prebiotic activity for the extract, says a new study.

Nestlé centralises all clinical research in new centre

New research unit will help Nestlé quest for health claims gold

Nestlé is now  'better armed' to gun for EFSA approved health claims approvals, after the company centralised its clinical research efforts at a new unit in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Vitamin Shoppe CEO: A lot of CPG companies are looking at the dietary supplements space

Procter & Gamble is probably not the only consumer packaged goods company looking very closely at the dietary supplements sector right now given how much faster it is growing than...

Global Biotechnologies supplements seized over unauthorized disease claims

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has sent in US marshals to seize supplements manufactured by Portland, Maine-based Global Biotechnologies Inc after the firm ignored warnings that it was making...

'Breakthrough' study supports Pycnogenol's vascular benefits

Daily supplements of an extract from French Maritime Pine bark may boost vascular health in people with stable coronary artery disease, according to data from a gold standard randomized, double-blind,...

Expert dismisses grapefruit seed extract ‘false positive’ explanation

Claims by a leading grapefruit seed extract product manufacturer that the detection of synthetic disinfectants in some products is related to a ‘false positive’ interpretation of analytical data have been...

Nestlé Clinical Development Unit inauguration

Nestlé centralises clinical research in new centre

Nestlé will centralise the development and management of all of its clinical trials, after the inauguration of its new clinical development unit and metabolic research centre in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Dispatches from Vitafoods Europe 2012

Coca-Cola bites into EU-backed obesity project

What is the world's biggest carbonated beverage company doing in a European Union satiety research project? Why, collaborating to battle obesity of course…

Many ‘Grapefruit Seed Extracts’ adulterated with synthetic disinfectants, says nonprofit research consortium

The majority of products containing 'grapefruit seed extracts' may be adulterated with synthetic additives, according to a new review from a nonprofit research consortium.

Folic acid supplements may slow artery hardening: Study

Daily supplements containing folic acid may reduce hardening of the arteries and counter the development of atherosclerosis, suggests a new meta-analysis by Chinese scientists.

Neptune: ‘Krill oil is the fastest growing ingredient in the omega-3 market’

Krill oil is “the fastest growing ingredient in the whole omega-3 market”, Canadian krill oil firm Neptune Technologies & Bioressources has claimed after unveiling its preliminary results for the first...

PepsiCo: ‘We’ve barely scratched the surface’ on oat health benefits

PepsiCo’s Quaker Oats division has created a new center dedicated to oat research and innovation in a bid to “elevate the relevance and benefits of oats through science, agriculture and...

Watermelon extract shows blood pressure benefits: Human data

Daily supplements of a watermelon extract may help reduce moderately elevated blood pressure in obese middle-aged adults, suggests a new study.

Bodybuilding.com steroids spiking guilty plea is a wake-up call for industry, says lab director

News that Bodybuilding.com has pled guilty to selling dietary supplements spiked with steroids - and agreed to pay a $7m fine - proves the FDA is “not blowing smoke” when...

Ganeden takes BC30 probiotic into instant coffee

Ganeden Biotech has announced that its BC30 probiotic ingredient will soon be available in instant coffee, as the company builds on success in teas and other beverage formats.

Sales fizz for 'healthy' Japanese cola that cuts dietary fat absorption

Japan’s Kirin Holdings has promised to increase the percentage of high added-value products it launches in future, after sensational sales of what is claimed to be the world’s first ‘healthy...

Cereal fibers show prebiotic potential in bread: Puratos study

Bread enriched with specific cereal fibers may beneficially modify bacterial populations in the gut without any adverse effects, says a new study by scientists from the University of Reading, UK...

USPLabs sues retailer for defamation over 'false and disparaging' comments about Jack3d, DMAA

USPLabs has taken legal action against a Max Muscle franchisee in Reno, Nevada, accusing owner Philip Tracy of making "false and disparaging" comments about its Jack3d supplement, and its core...

Meso-zeaxanthin needed for eye health benefits for high-risk AMD population?

A combination of three carotenoids - lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin – may be needed for eye health benefits in people with abnormal retinal pigmentation, suggests new data from Ireland.

Infant formula brain development benefits within range of breast milk - report

The brain development of infants raised on milk-based infant formula does “not differ significantly” from those fed breast milk and soy protein-based formula, a US study has claimed.

NASA slams spaced-out media claims it developed 'wrinkle reducing' superfruit drink

The North American Space Agency (NASA) has told BeverageDaily.com that it has nothing to do with wonder ‘space drink’ AS10, but the brand’s UK distributor insists the agency did co-develop...

Dark chocolate consumption linked with heart benefits

Consumption of dark chocolate could help to shrink the risk of heart disease in people with metabolic syndrome, according to new scientific data.

Omega-3 or B vitamins fail to benefit depressive symptoms, but low doses may be at fault

Supplements of B vitamins or omega-3 fatty acids may not benefit depressive symptoms in heart disease survivors, says a new study, but low doses and methodology flaws have led a...

SunOpta divests natural products distribution business for US$14.7m

Canada’s SunOpta has agreed to sell its natural health products distribution business - Purity Life Natural Health Products – to an affiliate of Banyan Capital Partners for C$14.7m ($14.27m).

Seaweed extracts may slim waistlines in 12 weeks: Study

Alginated-based supplements from seaweed enhanced the weight loss results of an energy-restricted diet, suggests new data from Denmark.

Durbin defeat, ISSFAL, Vitamin Shoppe success, and DSM's ONC acquisition: May in Pictures

As a new month begins, NutraIngredients-USA looks back at an important 31 days for the dietary supplements industry, which included a conclusion of sorts to the POM vs FTC legal...

News in brief

POM Wonderful expands presence in ingredients market with new 100% concentrate

Californian juice maker POM Wonderful has expanded its presence in the industrial ingredients market with the launch of a new 100% Pomegranate Juice Concentrate for use in foods, beverages, supplements...