NutraIngredients-Asia awards 2019: Meet the four winners of our ingredient awards

The awards ceremony, which took place at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, recognised APAC’s best product development and brightest research in the nutrition and supplements industry.

NutraIngredients-Asia Editor-in-Chief Gary Scattergood said: “We had more than 100 ​entries and reducing these to a shortlist, and then picking a winner, was a huge challenge.​

“That’s why​ I’d like to thank our independent and expert panel of judges across business and academia, which have spent many hours assessing and evaluating all the entries in great detail​.”

Ingredient of the Year: Healthy Ageing ​

Affron® EYE - Pharmactive Biotech Products   ​

This saffron-based antioxidant acts as a natural alternative to prevent retinal disorders by decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation from the retina's vessels, induce a reduction in intraocular pressure, as well as preserve the photoreceptor function.

Scattergood commented: “This 100% natural carotenoid for eye health, impressed the judges not​ only due to the scientific evidence behind it, but also because of its highly versatile​ nature, which makes it suitable for use in a range of products.”​

Ingredient of the Year: Weight Management​

SlimBiome® Medical - OptiBiotix Health​

Formulated with functional ingredients, which are backed by two EFSA health claims, this ingredient helps to lessen food cravings, induce lower blood glucose rise after meals, support healthy gut and achieve effective weight management.

Its high dietary and prebiotic fibre content also supports good gut health.

Scattergood said: “This functional ingredient ticked all the boxes, spanning efficacy and application, while the company was also able to show clear evidence of ongoing commercial success.”​

Ingredient of the Year: Sports Nutrition​

EnXtra - Enovate Biolife​

The galalnga-based ingredient, which belongs to the turmeric/ginger family, is clinically proven to improve alertness and focus for up to five hours, making it an excellent natural alternative for caffeine.

According to Scattergood: “The judges were very impressed that EnXtra is the first and only natural caffeine-free patent-pending botanical ingredient,​ which combines a traditional ingredient with modern-day science.”​

Ingredient of the Year: Infant Nutrition​

Bifidobacterium breve M-16V - Morinaga Milk Industry​

An established probiotic strain, this is demonstrated to promote healthy gut microbial colonisation for a stronger immune system.

Supplementation with M-16V is effective at protecting premature infants against enterocolitis, sepsis, and allergic disorders.

“This was the standout winner in the category, not least because it boasts such an extensive array of scientific evidence spanning many years,”​ said Scattergood.