Breaking News on Supplements & Nutrition - North America EU edition

CRN proposes upper limits for functional foods

While functional foods make inroads at the IFT Expo, the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) is making its voice heard on the issue of upper limits for nutrients added to these products.

IFT: Cognis launches bakery emulsifiers, mold inhibitor

European ingredients firm Cognis is using the IFT event in Chicago this week as a platform to launch a variety of new products on the US market, including emulsifiers, aerating agents and a 'natural' mold inhibitor.

Goat milk prevents iron deficiency - study

A study of the nutritional benefits of goat milk, compared to cow milk, at preventing iron deficiency could prove to be a huge benefit to human health.

DSM delights bakers and cheese makers at IFT

DSM Food Specialities is using IFT Food Expo 2007 in Chicago to introduce its taste enhancement ingredients to the US.

SIDI protocol pushed forth by industry at IFT

The industry-wide need for implementation of the Standardized Information on Dietary Ingredients (SIDI) protocol was yesterday underscored by speakers at the IFT Expo.

IFT: AAK launches no-trans bakery shortenings

Oil and fat manufacturer AarhusKarlsham (AAK) is introducing a number of extensions to its EsSence line of bakery shortenings, designed to respond to the trans-free requirements of niche applications in the category.

Kemin files suit for lutein patent

Kemin Health has filed a patent infringement suit against OmniActive Health Technologies for methods pertaining to the isolation and purification of lutein and lutein compositions.

One per cent can help reduce sat fat, says agency

Milk that contains only one per cent fat can be used as an ingredient in food products to help formulators reduce saturated fat levels in line with guidance targets, says the FSA - advice that could help stimulate a sector of the dairy industry.

Anthocyanin-rich corn products may benefit dieters, diabetics

Using blue corn to make tortillas and other products may offer significant benefits for dieters and diabetics, suggests a new study from Mexico and Venezuela.

Cheese taste and aroma boosted by prebiotics - study

The sensory aspects of cheese could be boosted by the addition of prebiotic ingredients, in addition to improving the nutritional profile of the product, suggests new research.

Green tea ingredient rides trend

A green tea extract has been launched by Danisco as a food ingredient, reinforcing the perceived benefits of the antioxidant and its "consumer friendly" appeal.

Study finds omega-3 greater anti-inflammatory potential

An increased intake of fish oil over vegetable oil can help reduce the inflammation of various tissue and organs, a study has found.

Syngenta sales rise as focus shifts from soy to corn

Syngenta has posted strong half-year results, with growth in the firm's corn business offsetting a decline in soybean sales.

Healthy ingredients makers court mainstream food at IFT

IFT Expo is bridging the gap between dietary supplement ingredients and mainstream food manufacturers, with companies who once focused on nutrition in a capsule now looking to supply functional food ingredients.

Antioxidants linked to better bone health for osteoarthritis

Increased intake of fruit and the antioxidants they contain, like vitamins C and E, may improve bone health and may reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.

IFT Expo's functional offerings are here

It's official! The IFT Annual Meeting & Food Expo is right around the corner! Running from Saturday July 28th through to Wednesday August 1st in Chicago, the Institute of Food Technologists' event, this year dubbed "Food Smarts", will draw attendees and exhibitors from around the world.

USDA reviews soybean standards

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has extended a comment period on a review of the nation's soybean standards, as it aims to ascertain whether these adequately respond to current grain industry needs.

Broccoli and cauliflower may slash prostate cancer risk

Eating more than one serving of broccoli and cauliflower a week may reduce the risk of prostate cancer by up to 45 per cent, says a new study.

AHPA sets its no-GM policy in stone

The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) is urging its members to refrain from using genetically modified (GM) herbal ingredients until environmental and health concerns can be effectively addressed.

Anthocyanins' anti-inflammatory properties probed

Increased intake of anthocyanins - compounds behind the red and blue colour of berries and other fruit - from dietary or supplemental sources may protect against inflammation, says a new study from Norway.

AHPA petitions FDA to amend GMPs

The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) has announced it is calling on FDA to change aspects of the Good Manufacturing Practices final rule it says could be damaging to dietary ingredient manufacturers.

Aloe ready for bioavailability applications

A study demonstrating the potential for aloe vera to enhance vitamin C and B12 bioavailability could give manufacturers of the ingredient another angle along which to promote it.

Nanotech task force advises FDA collect data

A US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) task force on nanotechnology has presented its findings in a report calling for the creation of an official guidance and in-house data on the science.

Zeaxanthin linked to better mental performance in the elderly

Increased intake of the carotenoids lycopene and zeaxanthin may improve the mental performance of the elderly, according to a new study from France.

Soy isoflavones may halve prostate cancer risk

Increased intake of soy isoflavones may cut the risk of prostate cancer by 58 per cent, suggests a new study from Japan.

Paraguay promotes its stevia

Growing consumer preference for natural products, as well as increasing concerns related to weight and disease, are making the herbal stevia more and more sought after.

Unigen settles patent case

Unigen Pharmaceuticals announced it has settled a patent infringement case against Leiner Health Products and Safeway for the ingredients scutellaria and acacia catechu.

Low vitamin D levels linked to higher blood pressure

People with low blood levels of vitamin D may be at an increased risk of higher blood pressure - a problem that could be easily remedied with supplements, says a new study.

Decas launches full line of organic berry powders

Decas Botanical Synergies (DBS) is launching 100 percent organic whole berry powders for the nutraceutical, functional food and cosmeceutical applications.

Changing incomes and lifestyles drive functional food growth

A new market report attributes higher incomes, lifestyle changes, growing health awareness, an aging population and a preference for convenience foods as driving the functional foods and drinks market.

More health claims increase sales, study finds

Products offering more than one health claim are more attractive to consumers and this could translate into a 20 per cent sales boost, a study in Germany has found.

NPA seeks to enhance consumer trust with new programs

The Natural Products Association (NPA) has announced new programs that will subject finished products to random testing so as to prevent and crack down on false advertising.

Probiotics show potential against burns

A probiotic supplement of Lactobacillus bacteria may help reduce sepsis and cut mortality from acute burns, suggests a study from Israel.

ONC furthers the marriage between DHA and dairy

Ocean Nutrition Canada (ONC) has expanded its omega-3 agreement with Danone Canada into a category that has been deemed by market analysts to be the world's fastest growing food product: drinkable yoghurt.

Weekly Comment

Could the E-number be up?

The European Food Safety Authority's review of additive safety could have a bigger effect on the ingredients industry than the ejection of certain colours and flavours with a suspect safety record. It could give the natural ingredients trend an extra push, and possibly prove the death-knell for the ne'er loved E number system.

More support for encapsulated sterols for cholesterol cuts

Regular use of plant sterol esters in capsules improved blood lipid levels and may reduce heart disease risk, says a study from the US and Canada.

Mango peel extract shows functional food potential

Mango peel extract, a by-product of the mango processing industry, offers a rich and inexpensive source of antioxidants for use in nutraceuticals and functional foods, says new research from India.

NPA joins the rank of services testing Chinese ingredients

The Natural Products Association has a new program for testing Chinese ingredients, making it the most recent in a growing line of groups looking to help manufacturers distinguish themselves amid contamination scandals.

Sabinsa adds new facility in India

Sabinsa Corporation announced it has finished constructing a $6mn facility in India for the manufacture of herbal extracts and phytochemicals for markets such as the US, Europe and Japan.

FDA targets company making cancer treatment claims

In another move to prevent dietary supplements infringing on the territory of pharmaceuticals, the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to Zeo Health for three of its products.

Low maternal cholesterol may boost blood flow in foetus

Lowering maternal cholesterol levels during pregnancy may improve the blood flow in the foetus and produce noticeable benefits later, says a new study from Norway.

Antioxidant use on the rise, market report

A shift in focus from treatment to prevention is opening opportunities for dietary supplement makers marketing antioxidants, according to market analyst Packaged Facts.

FDA to receive more food safety funding

The FDA is set to receive substantial funding increases for its food safety program, which will allow for additional research to prevent food contamination, as well as the creation of rapid response teams in the case of an outbreak.

Dairy calcium linked to lower breast cancer risk

Increased intake of dairy products may reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by at least 45 per cent, says a new study from France.

Lipogen takes PS to functional dairy

Lipogen is now bringing its phosphatidylserine (PS) ingredient to functional dairy products as a means of leveraging the wide market potential the popular food category offers.

Charles Bowman launches berry extracts

Charles Bowman and Company has launched three berry extracts, produced by Ferlux-Mediolanum, for use in dietary supplements.

Soy protein hydrolysate shows promise for weight management

Consuming a soy protein hydrolysate (SPH) increases heat production compared to carbohydrate, and when the protein is eaten before carbs the glucose response may be blunted.

Tate & Lyle extends Promitor line in US first

Tate & Lyle is launching a soluble corn fiber, which will first appear in the US followed by other countries.

Calls get louder to raise vitamin D levels

Recommended daily intakes of vitamin D should be quadrupled to 800 International Units, says a leading US expert from Boston University School of Medicine.

Questions raised over vitamin C's cold benefits

A review of 30 studies has concluded that a daily vitamin C supplement does not offer protection from common colds, adding to the ongoing debate about the vitamin efficacy on colds.

Is vitamin K deficiency more common than thought?

Many apparently healthy people may be vitamin K deficient, says a new review, potentially increasing the risk of bone loss and also for arterial calcification.

Renaissance to be snapped up by Indian biotech giant

California-based Renaissance Herbs has announced its acquisition by Bangalore-based Avestha Gengraine Technologies Pvt., allowing Renaissance to expand into the EU and Middle East.

Sabinsa patent black pepper for Japanese market

Sabinsa has secured a Japanese patent for its standardized black pepper extract Bioperine, giving it a strong platform for the sale of the bioavailability-enhancing ingredient in that huge market.

Extra fruit, veg may not affect breast cancer outcomes

Doubling the five-a-day recommendations for fruit and vegetable consumption does not provide any extra protection against the recurrence of breast cancer, says a new study.

Bergstrom restructuring eyes the future

With one eye on anticipated future growth, Bergstrom Nutrition, formerly Cardinal Nutrition, has announced a restructuring plan for its management team.

Low vitamin D levels may increase metabolic syndrome risk

Low blood levels of vitamin D may increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome among obese people, suggests a new study from Spain.

ConsumerLab.com rails at GMPs

Controversial supplements industry watchdog ConsumerLab.com has criticised the recently issued Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), saying they are not strong enough to prevent a company manufacturing a 'bad' supplement.

Clarinol CLA gets gold standard safety boost

Supplementation with Lipid Nutrition's conjugated linoleic acid (Clarinol) does not affect insulin sensitivity or glucose metabolism in overweight people, says a new study.

Solbar extends US soy products offering

Soy ingredients firm Solbar will be using the IFT in Chicago to drive home the message that is serious about the US market, showcasing its latest range of products.

Grapefruit may raise breast cancer risk - study

Women who consume one quarter of grapefruit every day may be at a 30 percent higher risk of breast cancer, suggests an epidemiological study from Hawaii and LA.

Buckwheat protein may have cholesterol benefits

Scientists based in Wisconsin have identified the mechanism behind buckwheat protein's ability to reduce cholesterol absorption by about half.

LycoRed puts the BLT into beverages

Thought BLT was a sandwich made with bacon, lettuce and tomato? Think again. In LycoRed's book it's a beverage fortification concept that showcases its expertise in antoxidants. Beta carotene, lutein, and tomato lycopene, of course.

Better B6 status linked to better pregnancy outcomes

High levels of vitamin B6 prior to falling pregnant may boost conception rates and reduce the odds of losing the baby during early pregnancy, suggests new research.

Chemi Nutra introduces powder, liquid omega-3 PS

Chemi Nutra has announced the introduction of its "new generation" omega-3 phosphatidylserine (PS) ingredients in both liquid and powdered forms, maintaining its presence in the cognitive function market.

Brand loyalty must be new strategic goal, says Datamonitor

Brand loyalty is more important to the success of packaged goods firms than attracting new consumers, claims a new report by Datamonitor.

Horny Goatweed linked to better bone health

Flavonoids derived from the Chinese herb Epimedium may increase bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip and lower back, and may have benefits against osteoporosis, suggests a new study.

Canada's folic acid success to encourage others?

If anyone needed further support for benefits of folic acid fortification, a new study shows that the incidence of neural tube defects in Canada has dropped by 46 per cent since the advent of folic acid addition to flours.

Neptune and Nestle team up for NKO food research

Neptune Technologies and Bioressources has entered into a collaborative agreement with the Nestle Research Centre that will pave the way towards Neptune Krill Oil's use in range of functional foods.

Danisco expansion to ease probiotic supply bottleneck

Danish ingredients firm Danisco has completed the expansion of a new probiotic facility in Madison to ease supply bottlenecks and meet ever-increasing demand from dairy.

Lycopene still not near health claim, FDA review

The FDA has backed-up its position that there is no credible evidence for associating lycopene and a reduced risk of various forms of cancer in a recent article.

Ajinomoto launches capsinoid supplement for weight loss

Ajinomoto has announced it is introducing its capsinoid dietary supplement into the US market after being given the green light as a new dietary ingredient.

Dairy may protect against metabolic syndrome

Increased intake of milk and other dairy products may reduce metabolic syndrome and should be recommended as part of a healthy eating pattern, says new research from Wales.

Indian herb again shows promise for diabetics

The traditional Indian herbal Salacia oblonga, for diabetics to lower blood sugar and insulin responses after eating, says a new study from the US that helps build the science behind the herb.

Folic acid and colorectal cancer link examined

Researchers from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University have analyzed data on the risks and benefits of associated with folic acid fortification, with the aim of adding to the debate on such programs.

Cargill inks Canadian oliggo-fiber distribution deal

Cargill announced it will be distributing its oliggo-fiber inulin products in Canada through LV Lomas following the ingredient's recent approval by Health Canada.

Aloecorp hinges on Hispanic preferences

Aloecorp is plugging the health-promoting properties of the aloe plant along ethnic lines following research it claims to have done in the US market.

Vitamin C may boost folate supplement response

Supplementation with vitamin C may increase the uptake of a folic acid derivative, suggests new research from Belgium.

Different omega-3 may offer different colorectal protection

Increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids from marine source, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may offer differing levels of protection against colorectal cancer, suggests a new study.

'China-free' label stokes import debate

In the ongoing controversy surrounding ingredients derived from China, one dietary supplement company has taken the bold move to label its products as "China-free".

WellGen awarded black tea extract patent

Nutrigenomics researcher WellGen has been awarded a patent for its black tea extract for the prevention of disease, and plans to market the ingredient as a dietary supplement for supporting joint health.

Kids in nothern climes at risk of low vit D levels

About 55 per cent of seemingly healthy adolescents may be vitamin D deficient, says a US study, and are at increased risk of osteoporosis and other health problems later in life.

LycoRed consolidates US ingredient platform

Israeli company LycoRed is looking to strengthen its functional food and cosmeceutical ingredient platform in the US with a new president for the geographical division.

Fishy, fruity diet may cut asthma risk - study

A diet rich in fruit, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitic symptoms, and wheeze says a new study.

More GMP third party services crop-up

One of the first companies to offer GMP audits has stepped forward to promote its services for dietary supplement manufacturers wanting to make sure they are in line with federal regulatory requirements.

FDA issues health claims draft guidance

The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is reviewing its scientific evidence for significant scientific agreement (SSA) and qualified health claims.

Weekly comment

The aspartame science kerfuffle

The publication of a new animal study on aspartame last month has - as expected -sparked yet another bout of head butting from the two opposing sides of the debate. But it also highlights a bigger issue: one of transparency.

Pumpkin extract may protect against diabetes

An extract from pumpkin (Cucurbita ficifolia) may improve blood glucose levels in diabetics, and exert antioxidant effects, suggests an animal study from China.

Codex's GSFA accepts nine dietary supplement additives

The International Alliance of Dietary/Food Supplement Associations (IADSA) is claiming a victory in securing higher levels for nine additives used in food supplements into Codex's draft risk analysis standards for safety.

Texas cracks down on Mannatech

The Texas Attorney General last week charged supplement manufacturer Mannatech for illegally marketing using dubious claims and testimonials about the health benefits of its products.

More support for carotenoids for eye health

Supplementation with meso-zeaxanthin, an unusual and consequently rare isomer of zeaxanthin, may offer protection against age-related macular degeneration.

Folate may reduce liver damage study

A diet low in folate may increase the risk of developing liver cancer, says a study based in China, highlighting potential additional benefits of folic acid fortification.

Chinese ingredients blamed for US salmonella scare

Chinese ingredients used to make a seasoning that flavors processed snacks manufactured in the US could be contaminated with salmonella, the national food safety regulator has warned.

NutraCea confirms production capacity increase

Stabilized maker NutraCea has announced it has completed the second expansion at its processing facility in Dillon, Montana according to schedule and within budget, thereby increasing capacity.

Robinson Pharma feels effects of soft gel demand

If the experience of Robinson Pharma spells true, soft gel encapsulation for the dietary supplement market is on the rise, driven by the omega-3 and CoQ10 markets.

Xango plugs analytical method for xanthone content

Xango is touting a new 'easily duplicable' analytical method, for identifying xanthones in the rind of mangosteen fruit, as supporting the health benefits of its high end juice line.

More magnesium-rich food for less diabetes - meta-analysis

Eating more magnesium-rich foods, like green leafy vegetables and nuts, may reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes, suggests a meta-analysis of observational studies.

DSEA to launch pilot ads for industry support

The Dietary Supplement Education Alliance (DSEA) has announced it finished shooting two television commercials it will test run this year in order to set in motion its goal of publicizing the positive face of the industry.

Guayaki market mate energy drink alternative

Californian beverage manufacturer Guayakí is launching a no-hype yerba mate set to compete in the energy drinks category because of the natural compounds found in the South American plant.

Probiotics may help against stomach ulcers

People with stomach ulcers may benefit from probiotics to speed up recovery, suggest results from an animal study from Hong Kong.

Pomegranate juice may ease erectile dysfunction

A glass of pomegranate juice every day may help manage erectile dysfunction, suggest results from a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover pilot study.

Glanbia says study confirms Prolibra weight loss potential

Glanbia Nutritionals is bringing its whey peptide Prolibra closer to the US weight loss market following a recent study it says backs-up earlier results.

Sabinsa and DNP legal battle finalized

A patent dispute between Sabinsa Corporation and DNP International looks to have been finalized, with the latter allegedly announcing it will cease marketing the ingredients in question.

Meg-3 goes into high end chocolate

A high end chocolate retailer in Western Canada is using Ocean Nutrition's branded Meg-3 fish oil in a new line of chocolate bars and fingers.

More support for Med diet's heart benefits

Consuming a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fruit, vegetables and fish, may decrease oxidative damage to LDL cholesterol and protect against coronary heart disease, suggests a new study.

National Cancer Institute funds study using Beneo

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is funding a Mayo Clinic study following the work of the EU-funded Syncan project, this time using prebiotics without probiotics, in relation to colon cancer.

Weekly comment

M&A: Urge to merge

Mergers and acquisition activity is always ongoing in every segment of industry, but this summer looks to be a particularly hot one for food and beverage manufacturers.

Lifeway takes functional dairy further into ethnic market

Lifeway Foods is expanding its presence in ethnic nutritional foods with the introduction of the traditional South Asian yoghurt beverage, lassi.

Vitamin D, calcium may prevent, improve diabetes

Combined supplementation with vitamin D and calcium may improve blood sugar and insulin levels, suggests a new meta-analysis and review.

Dairy may protect smokers from prostate cancer - study

Increased intake of dairy foods may cut the risk of smokers developing prostate cancer by about 40 per cent, suggests a new study from the US.