Green tea may influence brain function & boost working memory: Study

Drinking green tea may affect parts of the brain linked to working memory, says the first study ever to use functional neuroimaging methods to test the effects of green tea...

Go East: Inside Asia’s evolving health claims laws

The substantiation and transference into law of varying kinds of data backing food supplements, herbal products and other healthy foods remains a major hurdle in evolving Asian food regulations, an...

Synbiotic shows constipation relief potential

Daily supplements of a symbiotic mix of prebiotic fibers and probiotic bacteria may provide relief for constipation without affecting abdominal symptoms, suggests a new study.

Sunwin Stevia International and Wild Flavors GmbH enter global distribution deal

Sunwin USA has ended its distribution deal with Wild Flavors, Inc. to facilitate a global partnership between parent companies Sunwin Stevia International, Inc. and Germany-based Wild Flavors GmbH.

“Critical breakthrough”: 12 labs validate new cocoa-flavanol measurement method

A multi-centre collaboration between academia and industry has confirmed a new validation method for cocoa flavanols and procyanidins that study backer Mars says could have, “far-reaching implications for researchers and consumers.”...

Amway breaks ground on $38 million herb facility

Direct selling giant Amway is on schedule for its a new 48,000-square-foot extraction and concentration facility in Quincy, WA, as the company breaks ground on its Nutrilite Botanical Concentrate Manufacturing...

Delivery expert Virun introduces nutra-biosciences platform to accelerate expansion

California-based Virun has introduced a Nutra-Biosciences platform to accelerate the expansion and exclusivity of new and added-value food/beverage products after obtaining notice-of-allowances and several patent grants for its technologies.

Beetroot juice boosts ‘high intensity’ sports performance, scientist suggests

The lead author of a July study assessing the effects of beetroot juice on cycling performance tells BeverageDaily.com further research is needed to assess its efficacy at different levels of...

FDA issues more warning letters for disease claims

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues its surveillance of claims on dietary supplements with four new warning letters sent this week for disease claims on products.

Vitamin D shows eye health benefits: Study

Dietary supplements of vitamin D3 may boost visual function in lab mice, suggests a new study from the UK with potential implications for the eye health market.

High dose B3 may offer hope in fight against 'superbugs'

Very high doses of vitamin B3 could help battle antibiotic resistant ‘superbugs’ by increasing the ability of the immune system to kill off infections, says new research.

UK wins Jack3D appeal and bans DMAA

The UK has ended months of ambiguity by banning controversial stimulant DMAA, after its medicines agency won an appeal against a retailer of the most popular brand – USPlabs’ Jack3D.

CRN launches Life…supplemented mobile app: Vitamin Angels set to benefit from proceeds

The Council for Responsible Nutrition has launched a mobile app for its 'Life…supplemented' campaign, with proceeds being donated to international charity Vitamin Angels.

Vitamin E shows cognitive function benefits: Study

Increased blood levels of all forms of vitamin E may reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment in older adults, says a new study from Europe.

Industry can be confident in bitter orange safety, says Nutratech

The dietary supplements industry can be confident in the safety of bitter orange extracts, and the p-synephrine they contain, despite a new analysis from FDA raising concerns over heart rate...

Vitamin D plus exercise may boost bone health for astronauts in microgravity

A combination of vitamin D, resistance exercise and adequate energy intake may help astronauts maintain their bone health for up to six months in low gravity conditions, says a new...

Bitter orange extract may raise blood pressure and heart rate: FDA analysis

A multi-component extract of bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) may raise blood pressure and heart rate in lab animals, says new data from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Science brief

ENI builds science for whole grape extract with RCT data

An extract from whole grapes may improve cholesterol levels, says a new study from Ethical Naturals Inc. (ENI) and KGK Synergize (Canada).

EFSA rebuffs prebiotic appeal hopes

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) health claims panel has given short shrift to an appeal by a Malta-based start-up urging it to revise a 2009 rejection of the prebiotic...

Longer lifespans create new elderly nutrition concepts

As average lifespans push beyond 80 years, demand is growing for products that meet the particular nutritional needs of the elderly such as cognitive performance and bone health. But is...

Omega-3s possess antioxidant potential, says gene expression study

Omega-3 fatty acids may offer antioxidant potential by modifying gene expression linked to antioxidant enzymes, says a new study from Germany.

Amazon gets aggressive in online supplement retail category: Wells Fargo report

Competition in online supplement retail category is hotting up as Amazon gets aggressive on core product prices, according to a new report from Wells Fargo Securities.

Olive oil may boost blood vessel function: Study

Supplementing the diet with olive oil may improve the function of cells lining blood vessels in people with atherosclerosis, says a new study from the US and Italy.

Verdure Sciences self-affirms GRAS status for Longvida curcumin

Verdure Sciences has announced Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for Longvida optimized curcumin following an assessment by an independent, internationally recognized expert panel of scientists.

Special edition: Oral health

Health claim wins drive oral health NPD

Functional gum is the obvious stand-out when it comes to nutrition-focused oral health solutions. Some of these products may be aimed at other health conditions like satiety, but the majority...

General Mills says health has become ‘a primary driver of innovation’

General Mills claims it has improved the nutritional profile of 68% of its product line by sales volume since 2005, reformulating to include more fiber, calcium and whole grains, and...

Parrillo Performance receives FDA warning letter for cGMP violations

Bodybuilding supplement manufacturer Parrillo Performance has received a warning letter from the FDA for an ‘inadequate response’ to an FDA 483 for alleged cGMP violations.

Green tea shows benefits for elderly with metabolic syndrome

Three cups of green tea per day may help elderly people with metabolic syndrome lose weight and trim their waistlines, suggests a new study from Brazil.

CSPI takes aim at Welch’s heart healthy claims

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) has challenged Welch Foods over its marketing of fruit snacks, fruit cocktails, spreads and juices as ‘heart healthy’ – and Welch’s...

DMAA in the dock

Germany: DMAA safety data “full of gaps”

The German food safety agency has warned people with increased blood pressure and those suffering from cardiovascular disease off disputed stimulant DMAA, and called for a probe into its legal...

Special edition: Oral health

Assessing the oral ecosystem: New research consortium aims to define the ‘healthy’ mouth

Defining what constitutes ‘healthy’ is a difficult task for any nutrition researcher. And when it comes to oral health in particular, very little is known about what influences a normal...

Special edition: Oral health

Probiotics’ oral health potential gathers pace

Probiotics are not only about gut health. The friendly bugs have also been touted to become the next blockbuster functional ingredients in gum and mints by Euromonitor. But which strains show...

Special edition: Oral health

The A to omega-3 of oral health nutrients

Oral health is much more than just calcium and vitamin D for healthy teeth, and vitamin C for healthy gums. A number of nutraceutical compounds are emerging with potential benefits...

FDA dismisses Sen Durbin’s caffeine-energy drinks concerns

The US Food and Drug Administration has concluded that the caffeine content in energy drinks labeled as dietary supplements or beverages does not pose a safety issue, following demands by...

Alpha-keto acids may boost training tolerance for athletes

Supplements of alpha-keto acids, analogs of amino acids, may improve exercise tolerance and enhance the stress-recovery state, says a new study.

CreAgri hails ‘game-changing’ patent for olive compound’s anti-inflammatory activity

The US Patent and Trademark Office has granted CreAgri a patent for the use of hydroxytyrosol from olive waste water as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Omega-3s show potential to protect against brain trauma

The potential benefits of omega-3s to reduce the long-term effects of brain trauma may be optimized by early administration, ‘in the emergency department or sooner’, says a new report.

Anthocyanins may slash inflammation marker levels: RCT data

Supplements of anthocyanins – antioxidant pigments from fruit and vegetables – may reduce levels of inflammatory compounds in people with high cholesterol levels, says a new clinical trial from China.

News in brief

Medical marijuana chewing gum set for US debut

US firm Medical Marijuana has acquired a 50% stake in CanChew BioTechnologies and plans to launch a marijuana chewing gum in the US this October.

Resveratrol may improve mobility in older people: Animal data

The red wine compound resveratrol could help older people to battle against motor deficiencies that lead to mobility problems and increased risks of falls, according to new research in mice.

‘Industry is addressing its problems’: NPA/CRN set the record straight over Arch Intern Med commentary

Reliance on an outdated report from the GAO may have led the authors of a commentary in the Archives of Internal Medicine astray, and FDA does have all the tools it needs...

Industry should engage in dialogue to address ‘ineffective regulation’: Arch Intern Med commentators

The dietary supplements industry has been called on to engage in dialogue to address its ‘ineffective regulation’ by the authors of a recent commentary in the Archives of Internal Medicine....

Amish study makes ‘important step forward’ in understanding gut microflora and metabolic pathways

US researchers have identified specific gut bacterial groups that may be associated with metabolic syndrome traits, according to a study with Pennsylvania's Old Order Amish population.

Olive oil and Med style diet linked to bone health

Consumption of a Mediterranean style diet, enriched with olive oil, could help to protect bone health, according to new research.

Updated: NSF and USADA voice concerns over USPlabs’ DMAA analysis

Analytical experts from NSF International and USADA have voiced concerns over the new DMAA analysis that claims to confirm the presence of DMAA in geranium, NutraIngredients-USA can report.

Dark chocolate could reduce heart disease risk, says study

Cocoa compounds found in dark chocolate can reduce blood pressure in the short term and could help guard against cardiovascular disease, according to a recently released study.

Nuts for your nuts: Could walnuts help boost semen quality?

Consuming walnuts every day could help to improve the quality of semen in young men, according to new research data.

Nestlé research suggests goji berry's immune promise

A combination of milk protein and wolfberry (goji berry) fruit could help boost the immune function of elderly people by strengthening their ability to fight certain infections, according to new...

Apple peel extracts show blood pressure lowering potential

Extracts from apple peel may inhibit the activity of an enzyme linked to increasing blood pressure, suggests a new study from the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Canada.

London Olympics 2012: DMAA responsible for 1 of 8 doping violations

Controversial stimulant DMAA – the substance that has caused more doping violations in recent years than any other including blood boosters and steroids – was responsible for just one violation...

Meta-analysis supports soy isoflavones’ weight benefits for menopausal women

Supplements of soy isoflavones may help reduce body weight and improve the metabolism of glucose, according to a new meta-analysis of suitable studies with non-Asian women.

IP portfolio builds for Magtein after two patents granted for brain health

The US Patent and Trademark Office has granted patents for magnesium L-threonate, marketed as Magtein, for cognitive function and neurological disorders.

Krill revenues up 23% at Aker Biomarine; Norwegians looking to expand

Krill specialist Aker BioMarine is looking at expanding production after its Q2 results showed operating revenue growth of 23% from NOK87m (€11.91m) in Q2 2011, to NOK107m (€14.65m) in Q2 2012.

Nutritionist challenges egg-busting study

Nutritionist Dr Carrie Ruxton has challenged the latest study vilifying egg yolk as a contributor to coronary artery disease.

Aged garlic plus CoQ10 show heart health benefits: RCT

A combination of aged garlic extract and coenzyme Q10 may improve vascular health by improving the function of the cells lining the blood vessels, says a new study with LA...

Chilli compounds backed for weight loss, but are no ‘magic bullet’ for industry

Capsinoids and capsaicinoids from chili peppers will not provide industry with a ‘magic bullet’ for weight loss, however there is good evidence to back their use in weight management programmes...

Price, taste and brand overrule nutrition labelling

Price, taste and brand overrule nutrition labelling when it comes to what makes consumers buy one food and drink product over another, according to fresh research from the European Food...

USPlabs-funded study claims to ‘confirm presence of DMAA in Chinese geranium'

Controversial ingredient DMAA has been detected in Chinese geranium, according to a new study from Intertek AAC Labs and funded by USPlabs, which challenges other recent studies that demonstrated its...

Low omega-3 levels put US service members at risk of poor cognitive flexibility and executive function

US Military personal with low omega-3 levels are at a higher risk of reduced cognitive flexibility and executive function, says a new study.

Grape polyphenols backed for MetS benefits: Study

Consumption of polyphenol-rich grape may offer heart health benefits for men with metabolic syndrome, according to new research data.

Soluble-fiber should be ‘promoted’ to people at risk of metabolic syndrome: Review

The potential cardiovascular benefits of psyllium supplementation, including reducing cholesterol levels, indicate it ‘could be promoted to patients who present metabolic syndrome risk factors’, says a new review.

IOM, FDA 'intrigued' by potential economic impact of increasing omega-3 intakes: GOED

Representatives from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) are said to have been "intrigued" by the potential economic impact of increasing intakes of omega-3 EPA and DHA, following a meeting between...

FAO: 2bn suffering vitamin A, iron, iodine deficiencies

Unsustainable food systems and diets and severe deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin A, iron and iodine have created malnutrition and hunger problems affecting more than a third of the world’s...

‘DMAA issue is behind us’, says Vitamin Shoppe as retailer reports record Q2

Vitamin Shoppe has reported a record second quarter with gross profit increasing 16.3% on the same quarter of last year, with the pre- and post-workout category growing consistently despite the...

ABA attacks 'clear bias' of BMJ on sports drinks

The American Beverage Association (ABA) has lashed out at the British Medical Journal (BMJ) for a critical article series on sports drinks, and said the journal showed bias in overlooking...

LactoSpore chosen for Tutti Frutti frozen yogurt, with more product launches to follow

Sabinsa’s LactoSpore has been selected for Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt, the world’s top-selling self-serve frozen yogurt brand, and consumers can expect more products with the probiotic ingredient from other companies...

Resveratrol shows potential for blood sugar control: Human data

Three months of consuming a daily supplement of resveratrol may help with blood sugar control and improve blood pressure in type-2 diabetics, suggests data from India.

Review backs nutrition for cutting stroke risk

Increasing dietary intake of fruit and vegetables could help slash the risk of stroke, though more information is needed on how other nutrients and diets can modify risks, says a...

Latin American suppliers plan 'Chia Council' to develop business

Suppliers of chia in Latin America are working together to establish a regional organization to provide a safe and transparent framework in which to further develop the chia business.

UK food agency warns against DMAA (but medicines agency has final say)

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has warned consumers off pre-workout supplements containing the stimulant DMAA, in reaction to adverse events reported from around the world. But it says the...

Flood of stevia products to arrive soon: SGF's VP of science

A flood of stevia-containing products will arrive over the next 12 months, with beverages leading the way, says Mel Jackson, VP of science for Sweet Green Fields.

Mixed vitamin E may support blood vessel health in healthy adults

Short-term supplementation with vitamin E may support the function of cells lining blood cells from potential damage during the increase in blood sugar levels after eating, says a new study.

Low vitamin D ‘common’ among critically ill children, finds research

Vitamin D deficiency is very common among children with critical illnesses, and it is associated with worse outcomes, according to new research.

Study: Food can ‘reset’ disturbed sleeping cycles

What and when we eat can alter our ‘circadian clock system’ – or sleeping cycle – and boost health, prevent obesity and increase life expectancy, researchers have found.

Cocoa and green tea extracts show anti-inflammatory benefits: Study

Flavanol-rich extracts from cocoa and green tea may reduce markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in obese adults at risk for insulin resistance, says a new study.

Bodybuilding.com steroid spiking case shows retailers also responsible for dietary supplements: US Attorney

The $8.1 million in total fines for Bodybuilding.com and the DeLuca brothers should serve as a reminder for retailers as well as manufacturers of their responsibility to ensure dietary supplements really...

Carotenoids may improve asthma symptoms: RCT data

Increased intake of carotenoids from the diet may improve measures of asthma in asthmatic adults, says a new clinical trial.

Dietary magnesium may reduce the risk of colon cancer: Meta-analysis

Increased intakes of magnesium in the diet may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, says a new meta-analysis from Imperial College London and Wageningen University.

Softgel sterols may cut cholesterol levels by 7.5%: Pharmavite study

Five weeks of supplementation with plant sterols/stanols softgels in combination with lifestyle changes may reduce total cholesterol levels by 7.4%, report researchers from Biofortis Clinical Research and Pharmavite.

Abbott Nutrition invites second wave of research proposals on diet and cognition

Abbott Nutrition and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are inviting researchers to bid for cash to fund new diet and cognition-related projects that could help Abbott develop the next generation...

Ganeden gets GRAS no objection from FDA for BC30

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said it has no objections to the Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status of Ganeden’s BC30 strain (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086) for...

Slate magazine tells athletes: “Stop taking supplements”

Athletes should avoid taking food supplements because they are overpriced, don’t boost performance and could provoke doping violations, an article in online daily news site, Slate, has said.

Yakult Light probiotic drink makes US debut

Japanese probiotics pioneer Yakult has launched a light version of its fermented dairy drink in the US.

News in brief

Omega-3 delivery expert Virun raises $2.1m to fund expansion plans

Virun - the firm behind patented technology enabling it to add fat-soluble bioactives from omega-3s to CoQ10 to shelf stable clear beverages - has raised $2.1m from private equity firm...

NPA: Consumer Reports supplements probe is insulting to consumers

A probe into dietary supplements published in the September 2012 edition of Consumer Reports misleads and insults consumers and smears the industry, claims the Natural Products Association (NPA).

Caffeine may ease Parkinson's symptoms, suggests research

Caffeine consumption may help control movement in people suffering from Parkinson's, according to new research.

News in brief

Herbalife Q2 sales surge in North America, Asia Pac

Direct selling supplements giant Herbalife posted a 20% rise in net income to $133.4m in the three months to June 30, while net sales rose 17% to $1bn.

DMAA in the Dock

France hunting ‘unauthorised’ DMAA products as Australia condemns stimulant

The French agency responsible for policing the country’s food supplements market told NutraIngredients today the controversial stimulant DMAA has been prioritised by its 2500 agents in a nationwide crackdown.

Schiff Nutrition: Our brands now account for 9 out of every 10 dollars of revenue

Branded supplements such as MegaRed and Digestive Advantage now account for almost nine out of every 10 dollars of revenue generated by Schiff Nutrition International, bosses have revealed.

Smart Balance is hit with lawsuit over plant sterol claims

Heart-friendly spreads expert Smart Balance has been hit with a class action lawsuit alleging that it does not include enough plant sterols in its spreadable butters to warrant the cholesterol-lowering...

Novel supplement range targeting cancer patients fills ‘huge void’ in marketplace

OncoQOL, a new range of dietary supplements specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of people undergoing cancer treatment, has been launched by Thorne Research and The Helsinn Group.

New vitamin E recovery technique set to boost industrial production?

A new way to ‘recover’ vitamin E from vegetable oil wastes could significantly increase industrial production of vitamin E whilst dramatically reducing waste from vegetable oil processing, say researchers.