Purity and simplicity drive health and wellness consumers, Mintel

Among the trends analyst Mintel has forecast for 2008, tap water, faux genomics and sustainability are most likely to affect the dietary supplement industry.

Obesity levels have not risen, study finds

Obesity rates did not rise last year for the first time in 25 years, a study has said, but are still too high and will continue to dominate public health agenda.

Conference set to tackle Canadian export obstacles

The federal Canadian agricultural agency is organizing a conference in an effort to favor trade in functional foods and nutraceuticals between the US and Canada.

Bamboo prebiotics boost gut health in the elderly

The gut health of elderly people is positively changed by xylooligosaccharides, found in bamboo shoots, fruit, vegetables and honey, and was more efficient than fructooligosaccharides and inulin, Taiwanese researchers report.

Review casts doubt on isoflavone supplements

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) in Germany has said the long-term intake of supplements containing isoflavones carries a risk to menopausal women.

Study reports no effect of calcium, dairy on weight loss

Increased intake of calcium from dairy or supplemental sources does not promote weight loss, reports a new study from Ohio State University.

Life'sDHA meets Dalco meat

In an innovative move that may come as paradoxical, Martek Biosciences is taking its vegetarian life'sDHA to meat products.

AHPA to collect data on border activities of herbs

The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) is launching a program to record incidents of import detentions and other border-related activities surrounding plants used as ingredients in dietary supplements.

Multivitamins and minerals benefits for weight and hunger

Multivitamins and minerals could reduce appetite in women on a weight reduction regime, while lower body weight and fat mass was more obvious in men, says new research from Canada.

Nourish America rings in giving season with campaign

As the holiday season nears and industry members begin thinking about how to give back, Nourish America is launching its 1,000 for $1,000 campaign to improving the health of Americans in need.

Science needed to justify omega-3 nutrient claims, says GOED

The Global Organization for EPA and DHA omega-3s (GOED) is urging FDA to review the clinical science on the fatty acids so as to make an authoritative statement on recommended...

Earthfruits says cupuacu could be next superfruit

Utah-based Earthfruits is offering up an Amazonian fruit it says could be the next big antioxidant carrying superfruit.

Less HDL cholesterol increases impact of stroke

People are at an increased risk of memory problems and greater disability after stroke if they have low levels of "good" cholesterol, according to a new study.

Choices makes progress as global healthy foods mark

A food industry initiative launched this year is promoting one standard, easily recognisable symbol to aid identification of healthy foods across the world and encourage manufacturers to reformulate products along...

Lonza partners on both coasts for Fiberaid

Lonza has extended the reach of its Fiberaid prebiotic into the US market with the signing of distribution deals with partners the E.T. Horn Company and Del-val Food Ingredients.

Grain prices could rise by another 40 per cent says ING

Food and beverage processors will be fighting it out for an increasingly dwindling supply of grains sourced at ever higher prices, ING Group warned in a new forecast report for...

Fibre could help cut type-2 diabetes, researchers say

Eating more cereal fibre may help reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes in women, while foods high on the glycemic index may increase the chances of developing the condition, according...

Some companies are better prepared for regulation than others

As new regulation is introduced in the US, those companies with proven clinical research for their products will be at a significant advantage, according to market analyst Business Insights.

Scientists connect DHA to warding off symptoms of Parkinson's

Scientists have linked what has become the brain health staple of the supplement industry - the omega-3 fatty acid DHA - to yet another application, this one for Parkinson's disease.

Weekly comment

Why all the fuss about stevia?

Over the past half year, stevia has been the focus of attention as the search for a perfect natural sweetener continues. But why are the birds circling when the ingredient...

Specialty supplement sales to soar, says report

Specialty supplements offer the most sales growth potential over the next five years amid significant shifts in consumer demographics, according to analysis by Business Insights.

Consumer demand for cranberries fuels shortage fears

Ocean Spray has played down fears of a shortage in cranberries due to bad weather - and has said the harvest has been virtually the same as last year.

Vitamin E boost for diabetics' heart health

Vitamin E supplements may halve the risk of cardiovascular events among diabetics, if they carry a particular version of a gene, says new research from Israel.

Grape-soy team-up enhances health benefits, says study

Teaming-up genistein from soy and resveratrol from grapes enhances the anti-obesity effects of the individual compounds, reports new research from the University of Georgia.

Nestle teams up with genomics super-league

Nestlé Research Center has joined a team of top companies and science institutes which will let it take advantage of new discoveries made in the field of genomics.

Sexual health supplement marketer initiates voluntary recall

A further voluntary recall of products sold to support erectile dysfunction (ED) has been announced by the FDA, sending out the message that the federal agency will follow-up on errant...

Chr Hansen launches Nutriphy cranberry at SupplySide

Danish Chr Hansen recently launched a cranberry ingredient for functional foods that could further increase the role of the berry beyond juice and dietary supplements.

Marine algae offer bioavailable, economic iron

Farming selected species of marine algae could provide an economical, non-conventional source of iron to help boost intakes around the globe, suggests a new study from Venezuela.

Flavonoids linked to better breast cancer survival

An increased dietary intake of flavonoids may enhance breast cancer survival by over 30 per cent, suggests a new epidemiological study from the US.

Grape OPCs linked to preventing LDL cholesterol

New research has linked oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) from grape seeds to preventing the LDL cholesterol oxidation that can lead to atherosclerosis.

Atrium secures rights to WobensymN in US

An American court has confirmed Atrium Innovation's exclusive US rights to the supplement WobenzymN, which the company has indicated could hold considerable commercial potential in the country.

Aloecorp restructures aloe operations

Aloe vera research and development specialist Aloecorp has announced a series of moves designed to meet demand for the ingredient as well as bolster further research.

Dairy industry cautious about proposed nutrition symbols

The US dairy industry has called on the nation's regulator to keep any new nutrition symbol programs both voluntary and flexible for manufacturers.

Nano-emulsions boost curcumin as health ingredient

The health benefits of curcumin, the natural pigment that gives the spice turmeric its yellow colour, could be enhanced by encapsulation in nano-emulsions, suggests new research.

Insufficient vitamin B levels may promote colon cancer

Moderate deficiency of folate, riboflavin, and vitamins B6 and B12 together may promote the risk of DNA damage and increase the risk of colorectal cancers, suggests a new study with...

Pine bark extract shows arthritis benefits

Extracts from French maritime pine bark may reduce the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis of the knee by about 40 per cent, suggests a new international study.

Mineral Resources and Trace Minerals still battling in courts

Mineral Resources International says it has scored a point in its legal dispute with Trace Minerals Research over intellectual property.   

Functional magnolia gum could sweeten breath

Extracts from the bark of the magnolia plant formulated in mints and gums can effectively tackle dental bacteria, suggests a new study from the Wm Wrigley Jr. company.

Functional foods could leverage Hispanic health drive

A chain of supermarkets in Northern Texas will be distributing a guide to healthy eating for Hispanic consumers, highlighting an ethnic trend that is only on the rise and could...

USP unleashes 11 new monographs for industry comments

The US Pharmacopeia (USP) has announced 11 new proposed monographs for dietary supplements for public notice and comment.

Weekly comment

Are trade shows relevant?

The new crop of business cards yielded by another trade show season have been duly filed away. But the big question remains. Were the three days at FIE followed, for...

ARS researchers say high folate and aging needs to be examined

Researchers with funding from the USDA's Agricultural Research Service are calling for studies examining the implications of having high folate status due to fortification and too little vitamin B12 due...

Provexis seals the deal with Coca-Cola

Provexis has confirmed an exclusive 12-month agreement with Coca-Cola for use of its tomato-based Fruitflow technology in beverages.

Dannon draws new yoghurt consumers to probiotics

According to a report from Reuters, French dairy giant Danone is drawing new yoghurt consumers to the prebiotic category since it launched its probiotic products this side of the ocean.

Next generation antioxidant assay takes testing inside cells

Antioxidant testing of nutrients has taken a leap forward as Cornell University scientists report a new assay that moves the quantification of antioxidant activity from the test tube to measuring...

Guest article

Court blocks patent office claims & continuation rules

The patent community breathed a collective sigh of relief on October 31 when the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia granted a preliminary injunction blocking the US...

Whey protein sees demand from functional drinks

The whey protein industry looks set to profit from the functional beverage trend as manufacturers say they have seen a surge in demand for their ingredients.

California fire figures reveal total avocado damage

Last month's wildfires in Southern California have caused $47m in agricultural losses, with avocados suffering the hardest hits, according to estimates released this week.

Vitamin C and dairy linked to less abdominal weight

An increased intake of vitamin C and dairy could reduce the accumulation of weight around the abdomen, reported to increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease, suggests a new...

Increased B12 levels could ward off dementia

Increased levels of vitamin B12, but not folate, may reduce the rate of age-related cognitive decline and dementia, suggests a new study from Oxford.

Milk thistle compound may protect against liver cancer

A flavanone compound in milk thistle, silibinin, may stop the growth and spread of liver cancer, suggests a laboratory study from the University of California, Irvine.

Most healthcare professionals take supplements, says CRN survey

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has announced as part of the initial results from its survey of healthcare professionals that, contrary to industry belief, the sector is in fact...

SupplySide wraps up biggest show

This year's SupplySide West in Las Vegas was a success by most accounts, with participation increasing 13 percent over the previous year.

Low dose grape powder linked to colon protection

Low doses of freeze-dried grape powder could inhibit the development of colorectal cancer, suggests a new human pilot study from the US.

Scientists develop prebiotic, low-fat sausages

Inulin, the prebiotic fibre associated with improved gut and bone health, can be used as a fat replacer in sausages to cut energy by over 20 per cent without affecting...

Citrus boosts tea's antioxidant punch - study

Combining citrus juice or vitamin C with green tea or its extracts could increase the absorption of antioxidants from the tea up to 13-fold, suggests new research.

China and India see rise in demand for kosher certs

Given that Judaism is far from prevalent in either China or India, it may come as a surprise that these are the largest growth areas for kosher certifiers.

Functional strategies from SupplySide

As consumers look for alternative ways to manage or prevent disease, functional food industry insiders say there are effective tactics ingredients makers can use to marry with successful products.

Fish for brain health supported by trio of studies

Omega-3-rich fish consumption may improve brain function across a broad demographic spectrum, suggest three new studies from around the world.

ADM offers soy as dairy protein alternative

ADM has launched a new line of soya proteins for use in place of expensive dairy ingredients or to extend milk supply, in the light of high prices that caused...

Falling soy sales call for awareness efforts, Mintel

A significant number of American consumers have never thought of buying soy products, suggesting there is space for a major awareness campaign to help boost flagging sales, says Mintel.

State of the industry I: credibility

Trade association representatives last week discussed top issues affecting the dietary supplement industry at SupplySide West in Las Vegas.

Long-term beta-carotene may slow mental decline

Men taking beta-carotene supplements for 15 years or more may experience a slower rate of age-related cognitive decline, according to a new study from Harvard.

State of the industry II: regulation

Trade association representatives last week discussed top issues affecting the dietary supplement industry at SupplySide West in Las Vegas.

Black cohosh stops breast cancer growth in the lab

Extracts from black cohosh may stop breast cancer cells in their tracks, suggests a new laboratory study involving scientists from French botanicals supplier Naturex.

Norway spruce lignans cut hot flushes by 53 per cent - study

A daily supplement of lignan from Norway spruce (picea abies) could reduce the incidence of hot flushes by over 50 per cent, suggests a new clinical trial from the US.

Consumers look to heal through functional foods

US consumers are increasingly consuming functional products with the intention of preventing or treating disease, the Natural Marketing Institute's (NMI) Steve French told SupplySide West attendees last week.

Antioxidants may stop fat cells formation, says study

Natural antioxidant compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids could inhibit the formation of fat formation from fat cells, suggests new research from Taiwan.

NPA partners to help members implement AER bill

The Natural Products Association (NPA) has announced a partnership with Safetycall to help its members prepare for the implementation of the adverse events reporting (AER) bill.

Nutranutra: industry's new online auctioneer

The nutraceutical industry now has its very own version of eBay thanks to the online auction site Paul DeLalla announced at SupplySide West last week.

Studies support phyto formula for inflammation

The publication of a round-up of studies on the safety and efficacy of Metagenics' NG440 formulation of rho iso-alpha acids (RIAAs) from hops, rosemary and oleanolic acid adds weight to...

Mastertaste launches novel nutrient-rich flavor

New Jersey-based Mastertaste used SupplySide West to formally launch its new NutraFlavor range, designed to provide intense fruit flavor and pack a nutrient-rich punch.

Cyanotech consumer focus boosts Q2 results

Cyanotech has reported in increase in sales in Q2 over last year and a reduction in loss, as its new product mix and human-nutrition marketing program is yielding results.

Fruit anitioxidants develop with ripeness

Compounds in ripe fruit have been found to be highly active antioxidants, making them a potential source of health-promoting ingredients.

Live longer with vitamin D, study says

Vitamin D may help slow down the ageing process, scientists have found, adding further weight to the importance of adequate intake of the vitamin.

DSM and Kemin pledge lutein growth

Kemin has announced a deal with DSM to strengthen an agreement to supply lutein aimed at eye health around the world, which will see DSM step up supply of FloraGLO.

Rising herbal stars given SupplySide spotlight

Finding new uses for 'old' herbs like hops, rose hip and rhubarb, could lead to market success, attendees at SupplySide West heard yesterday.

Unilever to take weight management to shots

The global number-one player in the weight management foods market, Unilever, has indicated it will be expanding this functional category into drinkable shots.

Citrus flavonoids and tocotrienols help cut cholesterol

A combination of bioflavonoids from citrus fruit and tocotrienols found in Sytrinol has had a positive effect in lowering cholesterol levels, scientists have found.

Pomegranate hailed king of the exotic fruits

Pomegranate, known as the royal fruit because of the 'crown' on top, is also the shining light for how to capitalise on consumers' growing interest in exotic fruits and ensure...

Probiotics have a role in paediatrics, say experts

Experts at a Nestle-sponsored symposium on probiotics and children's health have urged paediatricians to pay attention to emerging research on so-called good bacteria, although more research is needed on the...

ARS launches antioxidant value database

The USDA's Agriculture Research Service has published a new database giving antioxidant values for 277 fruits, nuts, vegetables and spices, which could help inform industry and scientists about healthy potential...

Health Canada publishes multivitamin, mineral monograph

Health Canada has published a new monograph on natural health products containing two or more vitamins and minerals, which sets out instructions on preparation, safety and labelling.

Canadian food firms see sales decline, says report

Sales of Canadian food manufacturers have declined "fairly dramatically" in the first two quarters of this year, according to a recently released financial review of the food industry.

Soy could help reduce fat gene

The soy compound lunasin has been shown to inhibit the expression of a gene responsible for internal cholesterol production, Soy Labs' scientists have said.

Weekly comment

Meat, cancer and credibility

The big 'Cs' got the meat industry in trouble last week - cancer and credibility.

DSM underscores probiotics potential with Ganeden

DSM Venturing has stumped up part of a $12m investment round in US probiotics company Ganeden, which it expects will help it establish a presence in a fast-evolving area of...

Vertellus raises price of vitamin B3 for humans

Vertellus has announced a price hike for its vitamin B3 for human nutrition - just as it is ramping up capacity of the vitamin at its plants in Indianapolis and...

Curry molecule gets hotter in anti-cancer role

Two variations of a molecule commonly found in curry have shown a greater potential than naturally occurring molecules to suppress colorectal cancer, scientists have found.

Bran antioxidants could protect against radiation

Antioxidants found in bran could help protect against DNA damage from sun exposure and radiation therapy, when ingested or applied topically, according to latest research.

Industry prepares for networking blitz at SupplySide West

The dietary supplement industry is gearing up for SupplySide West, an event that brings an increasingly diverse range of stakeholders together - from start-up companies to mainstream food manufacturers -...

Low-income families do not eat enough fruit & veg

The Journal of the American Dietetic Association is this month addressing various aspects of poverty and nutrition - in particular the relationship between income and fruit and vegetable consumption.

Red and processed meats increase cancer risk, says study

Diet and cancer are directly linked, with alcohol and red and processed meats posing particular risks, according to the World Cancer Research Fund's (WCRF) study released this week.

Policy center calls for nanotech steps

The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies has again warned the US government is not doing enough to ensure the safety of nanotechnology products currently available on the market, nor has it...

Asthmatic mums may hinder lung volume by breastfeeding

Mothers who are asthmatic may decrease airflow by breastfeeding their baby, a study suggests.