News
Cranberries Improve Prostate Symptoms in Six-Month StudyResearchers in the Czech Republic clami to have discovered “the first firm evidence” that cranberries may improve lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), according to research published online in the British Journal of Nutrition, this week.The researchers assigned 41 male subjects to 1500 mg of dried powdered cranberries or no cranberry treatment daily, for six months. At baseline, and at three and six months, many prostate-related measures were accessed. At six months, subjects in the treatment group showed statistically significant improvement with several biomarkers, including International Prostate Symptom Score (a commonly used questionnaire rating prostate symptoms), urination parameters, and levels of prostate-specific antigens (which may raise during incidence of prostate cancer). “The results of the present trial are the first firm evidence that cranberries may ameliorate LUTS,” wrote the study’s lead researcher. |
| published date: 09-01-2010 |
GOED Launches Omega-3 LogoOmega-3 association The Global Organization for EPA and DHA (GOED) has launched a new "Proud Member" logo that its more than 80 members, including omega-3 suppliers and consumer product companies, can use on their products.By joining GOED, members must comply with the association's strict monograph standards for omega-3s and adhere to a code of marketing ethics. View a list of member companies here. GOED says the new logo allows member companies to emphasize their GOED affiliation. The logo can be used on websites, in business-to-business product brochures, or in other trade advertising and outreach campaigns. "The logo program will help suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and others interested in the health benefits of omega-3s to easily identify the companies who have met GOED's strict quality and ethics standards," said Adam Ismail, GOED's executive director. "Companies using this logo can be immediately identified as omega-3 industry leaders committed to increasing education on and awareness of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA." |
| published date: 08-31-2010 |
Study Finds No Benefit of Omega-3s for Heart Health?“Low doses of omega-3 fatty acids did not significantly reduce the rates of cardiovascular end points,” wrote the author of a large-scale study on omega-3s published in the New England Journal of Medicine .From April 2002 to December 2006, 4837 patients with a history of heart attacks were enrolled in a 40-month cohort study known as the Alpha Omega Trial Group. One of four margarines—containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), all three omega-3s, or placebo—was added to each subject’s daily diet, and individual rates of major cardiovascular incidents were measured. None of the three omega-3s resulted in a reduction of cardiovascular events compared to placebo. The biggest hint of improvement with omega-3 was identified in women who experienced a reduction with ALA that only “approached significance.” Such a long-term and large-scale study might send a bad signal about omega-3s, but hold your thoughts. Since all of the involved patients had history of cardiovascular problems, the study’s author noted that “The lack of an effect of EPA-DHA in our trial could be due to an improvement in cardio-protective drug treatment,” as all patients were reported as having been enrolled in prescription drug therapy. The author went on to state that for cardiovascular patients who are receiving good clinical care and are at a low-risk of heart attacks, “a beneficial effect of low doses of EPA-DHA is difficult to prove.” The non-significant improvement in women from ALA may have even been due to change, wrote the lead researcher. |
| published date: 08-31-2010 |
Weight-Loss Drink Ad Banned in UKIn response to complaints from television viewers, the United Kingdom’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned an ad for weight-loss beverage Optislim. The agency says that the drink’s television ad infers that consumers can use the drink to lose weight in lieu of exercising.ASA says that the ad shows a woman stretching and getting ready to exercise. She then goes to the kitchen and fixes herself an Optislim shake, while a voiceover states, “Shake fat fast with Optislim three-second workout. Your complete weight-loss solution.” The ad then cuts to a shot of the woman relaxing on a couch. OptiPharm, the product’s marketer, says that the ad’s on-screen disclaimer, “When used as part of a calorie-controlled diet and healthy lifestyle,” indicates that the drink is not meant to replace exercise. It said that the ad was meant to express that the woman did not have time to go to the gym, instead opting for the drink. OptiPharm also said that UK firm Clearcast, which reviews advertising materials to ensure they are compliant with regulations, had reviewed the ad. ASA says the ad cannot be broadcast in its current form. It stated that the on-screen text disclaimer “was insufficient to remove the implication in the voiceover and visuals of that ad that Optislim could replace exercise for those wishing to lose weight.” Read ASA’s comments here. |
| published date: 08-30-2010 |
Court Decision Could Affect Future of Adverse Event ReportingAn unprecedented decision in the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals could ramp up demands for adverse event reports (AERs), if not reversed, the Natural Products Association (NPA; Washington, DC) announced last week.In the case of Matrixx Iniatitives Inc. (Scottsdale, AZ) v. Siracusano, the court decided “yes” in the case of whether or not nondisclosure of AERs warrants liability under federal security laws. The Ninth Circuit’s decision allows for a class action lawsuit to move forward. Matrixx Initiatives owns Zicam LLC, which sells Zicam and Nasal Comfort branded over-the-counter (OTC) products. "While the case involves an over-the-counter product, there are clear implications for the supplement industry, especially as the reporting requirements for OTCs and supplements were enacted in the same piece of legislation," said John Gay, Executive Director and CEO of the Natural Products Association. NPA further reports that “The practical consequence of the Ninth Circuit's decision, if it is not reversed, is that manufacturers of dietary supplements very likely will be forced to disclose all AERs, however insignificant, in order to avoid meritless—but expensive—strike suits against the supplement industry." The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (Washington, DC) and the Council for Responsible Nutrition (Washington, DC) jointly filed an amicus curiae brief, as well. |
| published date: 08-30-2010 |
ISSN Responds to Creatine Rumor in Oregon H.S. Football IncidentWhen over a dozen football players at Oregon’s McMinnville High School were reported hospitalized, following intense preseason workouts two weeks ago, media reports indicated that the supplement creatine monohydrate may have been a factor. Now, the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN; Woodland Park, CO) is refuting those reports.The football players were hospitalized for rhabdomyolysis (rapid breakdown of muscle fibers) and/or anterior compartment syndrome (muscle swelling in the lower leg). But according to ISSN, none of the athletes admitted to taking creatine supplements. Additionally, ISSN states that the athletes were not allowed to drink water during exercise, while temperatures in a room were exercise was conducted were reported as high as 115 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. “It is well known that excessive exercise in hot and humid environments can promote dehydration, muscle breakdown, and result in marked elevations in muscle creatine kinase (CK) levels,” says ISSN in its report. “In severe instances, this may lead to exertional rhabdomyolysis particularly in athletes who have been engaged in intense exercise in hot and humid environments for several days and who become chronically dehydrated. Additionally, excessive exercise in individuals unaccustomed to heavy training bouts can promote anterior compartment swelling, pain, and pressure. It is well known that dehydration and/or heat illness can exacerbate this clinical course.” Contrary to various media reports, ISSN states that none of the athletes said they took creatine supplements. Athletes were not allowed to drink water during training session. ISSN has published a “position stand” for the society on creatine supplementation, which outlines safety and efficacy of the ingredient, at the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. |
| published date: 08-30-2010 |
Artinia Now GRAS-Approved for EuropeThe European Food Safety Authority’s (Parma, Italy) Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergies (NDA Panel) has determined that Artinia, a chitin-glucan ingredient by Stratum Nutrition (St. Charles, MO), shall be Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) in the European Union. In the NDA Panel opinion, the ingredient is referred to as KiOnutrime-CG, the brand name used by Stratum’s European partner KitoZyme (Herstal, Belgium).Stratum expects official approval from the European Commission by October 2010. Artinia is a natural, fungal chitin-glucan intended for cardiovascular support. Increasing daily fiber intake with soluble and insoluble fibers, Artinia “supports the body’s natural defenses against oxidized-LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol,” says the company. The ingredient can now be marketed as a powder-form food supplement in various applications including gelatin capsules and tablets. The company states that a 12-week animal and a 30-day human pilot study with Artinia have shown beneficial results for arterial and heart health. The intended intake of chitin-glucan is two to five grams per day. |
| published date: 08-30-2010 |
Omega-3 Effect on Blood Clotting Appears Sex-SpecificAdding to established science indicating that omega-3s have a role in reducing blood platelet aggregation, a new human trial published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases suggests that these effects are sex-specific.Excessive platelet aggregation can cause to blood clotting, a major risk factor in diabetes, heart attacks, stroke, thrombosis, and other health conditions. Australian academic researchers conducted a short-term blinded trial in which 15 males and 15 females were assigned to a single-dose capsule rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or placebo. Platelet aggregation was then measured at baseline, 2, 5, and 42 hours after supplementation. Results of the trial indicate that EPA effectively reduced platelet aggregation in male subjects by an average of 11, 10.6, and 20.5% at each subsequent measurement after baseline; however, DHA was shown to be no more effective than placebo. Additionally, an inverse relationship between testosterone levels and platelet aggregation was observed with EPA. As for the female subjects, only DHA reduced platelet aggregation (by 13.7% at 24 hours). “Interactions between sex hormones and omega-3 fatty acids exist to differentially reduce platelet aggregation,” wrote the study’s author, concluding that “For healthy individuals, males may benefit more from EPA supplementation while females are more responsive to DHA.” |
| published date: 08-27-2010 |
Study: Athletes Benefit from Sports Drink with Added ProteinAdding protein to a sports beverage may allow athletes to exercise longer, according to research published last week in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.Researchers weighed the differences in time to exhaustion for athletes exercising while supplementing with protein and carbohydrates versus carbohydrates, alone. Fifteen male and female trained cyclists were assigned to three hours of exercise in two stages: 45% and 75% V2Omax. Following this exercise, the subjects were then assigned to exercise from 74.85% V2Omax to exhaustion. During each exercise, subjects were assigned to sports beverages (275 mL) every 20 minutes, containing 6% carbohydrates (glucose, maltodextrin, and fructose) or 3% carbohydrates with 1.2% protein. Could added protein with 50% fewer carbs affect time to exhaustion during aerobic exercise? The results indicate that it can. While time to exhaustion was no different in the two groups, eight subjects were cycling below or at ventilatory threshold (near max heart rate) and protein showed a significant effect on time to exhaustion here (a 45.64-minute average compared to a 36.47-minute average). |
| published date: 08-26-2010 |
Monk Fruit to Rival Stevia Someday?The stage could be set for luo han guo, also known as monk fruit, to eventually see the growing market success that stevia is currently experiencing in the United States, according to market researcher Innova Market Insights.Market penetration will largely depend on regulatory approvals. Currently, luo han guo, said to be 300 times sweeter than sugar, is mostly confined to supplements in the United States, and not food. (Innova says that most 2010 U.S. launches involved liquid, capsule, and tea-concentrate supplements.) The tide could change, however. In early 2010, leading luo han guo producer BioVittoria received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status from FDA for its Fruit Sweetness luo han guo concentrate. Innova says that as with stevia, FDA GRAS approval could pave the way for the sweetener’s use in a widening range of food applications. |
| published date: 08-25-2010 |
Scientists Shock Potatoes to Increase Antioxidant LevelsA team of scientists has discovered that ultrasound and electric shock can increase the polyphenol content in potatoes, according to research presented on Sunday at the national meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS).ACS reports the findings as “simple, inexpensive ways” to increase the antioxidant content of potatoes. The scientists used two methods: electric shock and ultrasound, high frequency sound waves. For the former method, potatoes were placed in water, followed by 5-10 minutes of ultrasound. For the latter method, potatoes were placed in a salt solution for 10 seconds and then given a small electric charge for 10, 20, and 30 minutes. The resulting effect was increases of antioxidant activity and phenolic content in all methods. With five minutes of ultrasound, polyphenol levels were 1.2 times greater and other antioxidant levels were 1.6 times greater. “We found that treating potatoes with ultrasound or electricity for 5-30 minutes increased the amounts of antioxidants—including phenols and chlorogenic acid—by as much as 50%,” said lead researcher Kazunori Hironaka, PhD, of Obihiro University (Hokkaido, Japan). According to Hironaka, previous research had been limited to an understanding that drought, bruising, and other stresses could affect phenolic compounds of certain produce. |
| published date: 08-25-2010 |
Pacific Technology ExchangePacific Technology Exchange Calendar:Monthly meetings held every 3rd Thursday of the month, October 14, 2010: Nutritional Deficiency in Obesity and Following Bariatric Surgery Speaker Jacqueline Jacques, ND Chief Science Officer, Bariatric Advantage Holiday Inn – 2:30 – 4:30 PM 14229 Firestone Blvd, La Mirada CA Hors d'oeuvres and drinks provided. |
| published date: 08-25-2010 |
Beta D-Glucans May Help Against Cardiovascular and Inflammatory DiseasesBeta-D-glucans may act as antioxidants in the blood, according to a study published in the journal Platelets.Researchers at the University of Lodz in Poland tested how blood platelets would react to common oxidants (peroxynitrate and hydroperoxide) when treated with beta-D-glucans, in vitro. Using thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and carbonyl groups and 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT) to measure oxidative stress, the researchers sought to assess any antioxidant activity from the presence of beta-D-glucans. The highest dose of beta-D-glucan used in the trial reportedly decreased TBARS by 80%. Meanwhile, the presence of 3-NT in platelets was “diminished” with beta-D-glucan. The study’s author concluded, “B-glucan supplementation may be beneficial in the prevention of excessive blood platelet activation-related diseases, such as cardiovascular or inflammatory diseases.” |
| published date: 08-25-2010 |
Polyphenol Content of Bottled Teas "Surprises" ScientistsBottled teas may not be as healthful as some consumers might think, according to research presented at this week’s national meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS).Researchers at the biotechnology company WellGen (North Brunswick, NJ) assessed the polyphenol content of 49 branded bottled teas, as NPR reports, and the results were surprising: “Out of 49 samples, half of the bottle teas contain less then 10 milligrams of polyphenols,” lead researcher Shiming Li told NPR. ACS states that an average cup of brewed black or green tea may contain between 50 and 150 mg of polyphenols, yet in six bottled teas purchased from supermarkets, Li measured polyphenol contents 81, 43, 40, 13, 4, and 3 mg per 16-ounce bottle. “Someone would have to drink bottle after bottle of these teas in some cases to receive health benefits,” said Li. “I was surprised at the low polyphenol content. I didn’t expect it to be at such a low level.” Half of the teas contained what Li considered “virtually no” antioxidants. The researchers used high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to measure polyphenol content in what WellGen is calling “the first measurements of polyphenols in bottled tea beverages.” WellGen hopes that this research will encourage future use of the technology to better consumer understanding of nutrition. |
| published date: 08-24-2010 |
Egg Recall Mounting with Additional FarmFollowing Wright County Egg's (Galt, IA) voluntary recall of some 380 million eggs on August 13, FDA now reports that an additional company, Hillandale Farms of Iowa Inc. (New Hampton, IA), has been implicated in an egg recall.The company's eggs were distributed to retailers, distributors, and other food companies in the following states: Arkansas, California, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Brand names used by these eggs included Hillandale Farms, Sunny Farms, and Sunny Meadow. BBS News reports that this recall covers 170 million eggs, increasing the egg recall toll to over half a billion. The two cases are not believed to be linked. |
| published date: 08-23-2010 |
Consumers Want Stevia as Much as Aspartame, SucraloseThirty-five percent of consumers have already eaten or would consider consuming products containing stevia, according to consumer data tracked by The NPD Group since last August. This level of consumer acceptance is similar with acceptance of aspartame and sucralose, says the market researcher.By comparison, 39% of consumers said they have or would eat or drink products with aspartame (sold under the trade names Equal and Nutrasweet). Approximately 51% of consumers said they would eat or have eaten sucralose, sold under the trade name Splenda, among others. According to NPD, such numbers indicate that since being approved Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) two years ago for use in food and beverages, stevia is finding growing popularity with consumers and gaining a stronger foothold in the sweeteners market. Read more here |
| published date: 08-23-2010 |
Rebaudioside D and F Now GRAS ApprovedFDA has issued a “no objections” GRAS approval for SG95, a new stevia product from PureCircle (Oak Brook, IL). The product’s GRAS approval not only covers seven previously GRAS-approved steviol glycosides, but also two new steviol glycosides, Rebaudioside D and F, contained in SG95—the first time the two glycosides have been GRAS approved.SG95 is ideally suited for applications combining both sugar and stevia, says PureCircle—products marketed for partial caloric reduction. The company is preparing for immediate commercialization. The company also markets its high-purity Reb A 97 stevia product. “Expanded use of sweet glycosides from the stevia plant provides both formulation and economic benefits to our customers,” says Magomet Malsagov, PureCircle’s CEO and managing director. Read more here. |
| published date: 08-23-2010 |
New Report: Intense SweetenersThe food industry currently accounts for 90% of worldwide usage of intense sweeteners—in part, thanks to growing popularity of diet and low-sugar foods, according to market researcher Leatherhead Food Research’s “The Global Market for Intense Sweeteners” report.The remaining 10% of the market is used by the pharmaceutical industry. A growing influence of China-based producers is among the trends impacting the market, says Leatherhead. |
| published date: 08-23-2010 |
Study: Consumers Don’t Eat More Due to Low-Calorie SweetenersPeople consuming fewer calories from low-caloric sweeteners do not overcompensate by eating additional calories, according to a new study published in the August issue of Appetite (vol. 55, no. 1, 37-43).The study included 19 healthy, lean subjects (BMI ranging from 20.0 to 24.9) and 12 obese subjects (BMI ranging from 30.0 to 39.9), all between the ages of 18 to 50. Over three days, subjects consumed servings of stevia (290 kcal), aspartame (290 kcal), and sucrose (493 kcal), each on a separate day, once before lunch and once before dinner. Hunger and satiety levels were reported before and after the meals, and every hour throughout the afternoon. The researchers found that despite the fewer calories provided by stevia and aspartame versus sucrose, subjects did not overcompensate by consuming additional calories at lunch and dinner. In addition, subjects reported similar levels of satiety between the three sweeteners. The study also measured each sweetener’s effect on postprandial glucose and insulin levels. (Subjects provided blood samples immediately before and 20 minutes after lunch.) Researchers found that stevia significantly reduced postprandial glucose levels compared to sucrose (p<0.01). Aspartame also significantly reduced postprandial insulin levels compared to sucrose (p<0.05). |
| published date: 08-23-2010 |
Meta-Analysis: Leafy Greens May Reduce Type 2 Diabetes RiskIncreased consumption of leafy green vegetables has been linked to a 14% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, according to the results of a meta-analysis published in the British Medical Journal.Researchers at the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom calculated data from six long-term studies that reviewed type 2 diabetes incidence with fruit and vegetable intake. The six studies were conducted for a median of 13.4 years, with over 220,000 subjects (from 30 to 74 years old) included in the data. Four of the studies included leafy green intake as a measure and just two included men. In summarizing all of the data, researchers concluded that 1.35 servings of leafy greens, compared to 0.2 servings, resulted in the 14% risk reduction. No risk improvement was identified in connection with overall fruit, vegetable, or fruit and vegetable intake. Funded for the study was provided by the cardiovascular research department of the University of Leicester. To read the full study, visit the British Medical Journal. |
| published date: 08-23-2010 |
Study Notes Benefit of Omega-6/Omega-3 RatioA proper ratio of omega-6s/omega-3s could improve human EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) levels as much as an EPA supplement, according to new research published in the August issue of the journal Lipids.Citing concerns that omega-6/omega-3 ratios in Western diets are far too imbalanced (estimated at up to 15:1 in favor of omega-6), researchers at Loma Linda University in Loma Linda, California sought to investigate whether ratios alone can influence intake levels of individual omega fatty acids. Twenty four adults participated in a controlled feeding trial of four diets of differing omega-6/omega-3 ratios: 10:1; 10:1 plus an algal supplement of EPA/DHA (docosahexaenoic acid); 2:1; and 2:1 plus the supplement. Each subject completed three of these four diets in 8 week diet sequences. Omega intake levels were measured in red blood cell membranes, with the 10:1 diet (minus the supplement) serving as baseline. While a 10:1 diet with the supplement increased PEA levels by 34%, the 2:1 diet without a supplement increased EPA by 60%. The results brought the researchers to conclude that "Shifting towards a 2:1 diet is a valid alternative to taking EPA-containing supplements." As for DHA, intake levels increased only with a supplement. To read the study abstract, visit the journal Lipids. |
| published date: 08-20-2010 |
GMO Beets Put on Hold in CaliforniaSugar beets supply half of the nation's sugar, but a U.S. federal district court judge has prohibited the cultivation of genetically-modified Roundup Ready sugar beets previously approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA; Washington, DC), The Center for Food Safety reports.Roundup Ready sugar beets are genetically designed to be resistant to Roundup pesticide. Opponents of these and other genetically-modified crops are concerned that cross-pollination—via wind, birds, or bees—could affect conventional and organic crops nearby. Judge Jeffrey White of the Northern District of California declared that future planting and sales of Roundup Ready sugar beets shall be prohibited in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, pending an environmental impact statement (EIS). USDA projects that an EIS on Roundup Ready sugar beets may be ready by 2012. |
| published date: 08-19-2010 |
Iowa Company Recalls 380 Million Eggs Over Salmonella RiskFDA (Rockville, MD) reports that Wright County Egg (Galt, IA) has initiated a voluntary recall of an estimated 380 million shell eggs at risk of carrying Salmonella Enteritidis. The company's recall is on eggs that were shipped out to national U.S. food distributors in California, Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa as far back as May 16, 2010.Recalled shell eggs were sold to the following brand names: Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph’s, Boomsma’s, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemps. Last Friday, the company informed FDA of its recall. FDA, along with federal and state organizations have been taking samples, inspecting records, and searching for places of initial contamination, such as feed. For more information on egg safety, visit FoodSafety.Gov . |
| published date: 08-18-2010 |
Beta-Glucan for Children’s ImmunityThe Dr. Sears natural children’s product brand from the famed American pediatrician has launched Immune Plus Fruit Chews touting beta-glucans for children’s immune health.The product contains Wellmune WGP, a beta-glucan 1,3/1,6 ingredient derived from Baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) clinically demonstrated to enhance the body’s natural immune responses. “Wellmune WGP is a safe, effective, and key ingredient in our new Immune Plus Fruit Chews,” says Sears. Click here for more information. |
| published date: 08-18-2010 |
PepsiCo to Develop Sweeteners for Low-Calorie DrinksPepsiCo today announced a four-year partnership with flavors firm Senomyx Inc. to develop and commercialize natural sweeteners and sweetness enhancers. New discoveries will be used to lower the calorie content of future PepsiCo beverages."This relationship with Senomyx reflects our increasingly long-term approach to research and development as well as our belief that global food and beverage companies can play an important role in identifying new ingredients that can lead to healthier products," said Mehmood Khan, PepsiCo's chief scientific officer. "The real challenge is to create products that not only are healthier but also taste great, and Senomyx has unique technologies that will allow us to improve the nutritional profile of our products without sacrificing taste. We're very optimistic that this collaboration will help us achieve our commitment to reduce added sugar per serving by 25% in key brands in key markets over the next decade and ultimately help people around the world live healthier lives." PepsiCo says that it will own the exclusive rights to the Senomyx sweet flavor ingredients developed under the collaboration for use in nonalcoholic beverage categories. Read more here. |
| published date: 08-17-2010 |
ConsumerLab Finds Fault with Ginseng Suppliers, Identifies ProductsThe dietary supplement market still needs enforcing, as evidenced by a new ConsumerLab report on ginseng supplements.ConsumerLab released a report on Monday stating that 5 out of 11 ginseng supplements the group recently tested had less ginseng than stated on the label or were contaminated with lead or pesticides. The group's report included Asian or "Korean" ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). One supplement contained only 60.3% ginsenosides (the active ingredient in ginseng), said ConsumerLab. Furthermore, suggested daily servings for each product were far from consistent, ranging from 6 mg to 304 mg of ginsenosides. HealthNews reports that products found to be contaminated or lacking in ginsenosides were Imperial Elixir Korean White Ginseng, Bluebonnet Herbals American Ginseng Root Extract, Nature's Plus Herbal Actives American Ginseng, NSI® American Ginseng 80%, and TruNature Triple Energy Ginsengs with Eleuthero. Companies included in the review were Action Labs (Anaheim CA), Bluebonnet (Sugar Land, TX), Good Neighbor Pharmacy (Valley Forge, PA), Imperial Elixir (GINCO; Simi Valley, CA), Nature Made (Mission Hills, CA), Nature’s Bounty (Bohemia, NY), Nature’s Plus (Melville, NY), NSI (Vitacost; Lexington, NC), Pharmanex (Provo, UT), Puritan’s Pride (Long Island, NY), Solgar (Leonia, NJ), Spring Valley (Walmart; Springfield, MO), TruNature (South El Monte, CA), Vitamin Shoppe (North Bergen, NJ), Vitamin World (Bohemia, NJ), and Whole Foods (Austin, TX). |
| published date: 08-17-2010 |
Russia Bans Wheat Exports Through Rest of 2010Russian president Vladimir Putin announced last week that the country will institute a ban on wheat export through the end of this year, BBC News reports. The announcement comes in response to several weeks of wildfires which, along with drought, have brought ruin to millions of acres of wheat and other grains in the country.Russia is one of the world’s largest wheat exporters, and the halt of exports actually goes beyond wheat. BBC reports that barley, rye, and maize exports from the country will also halt, and Russia is urging neighboring Kazakhstan to follow suit. Industry experts state that lowered wheat output is already being felt by rising prices, internationally. |
| published date: 08-16-2010 |
FTC Files Suit Against Marketer of Acai SupplementsThe Federal Trade Commission (FTC; Washington, DC) will formally announce a lawsuit next Monday against a marketer of acai berry supplements for weight loss and colon cleansing, according to a press release posted yesterday on FTC’s website.According to FTC, the company in question was advertising claims, including “…Use With Caution! Major weight loss in short periods of time may occur,” “detoxify your organs,” and break down and remove “toxic waste matter which may have been stuck in the folds and wrinkles of your digestive system for years and years.” Consumers reported to have been charged for the “free” trials they were provided. Monday’s formal announcement will feature David C. Vladeck, director of FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection and two customers who were charged on the “free” trials. |
| published date: 08-13-2010 |
Revisions to Eighth Edition of FSTA ThesaurusThe Food Science and Technology Abstracts (FSTA) Thesaurus has taken on major revisions to its eighth edition, according to the International Food Information Service (IFIS; Shinfield, U.K.).Over 100 terms and hierarches have been added to the FSTA Thesaurus, which provides indexing terms for fields relating to food science, food technology, and food-related human and pet nutrition. These revisions will be present in all records published from October 2010 going forward. For more information on the FSTA Thesaurus, click here. |
| published date: 08-13-2010 |
FDA Deputy Commissioner Returns to CRN ConferenceFood and Drug Administration principal deputy commissioner Joshua Sharfstein, MD, is slated to return as a keynote speaker at The Conference, the Council for Responsible Nutrition’s (CRN; Washington, DC) annual symposium for the dietary supplement industry. The Conference will take place September 29 to October 2 at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa outside of Austin, Texas.Sharfstein will make the opening address to attendees, providing an update on FDA’s dietary supplement-related regulatory activities. Sharfstein will discuss the impact of the current regulatory landscape of the recently fully implemented dietary supplement good manufacturing practices (GMPs), as well as the adverse-event reporting (AER) law. Additionally, he will update conference attendees on critical supplement industry issues, such as the long-awaited new dietary ingredient (NDI) notification guidance. Registration for The Conference is open to members and non-members of CRN. For more information, click here. |
| published date: 08-12-2010 |
EFSA Schedules Consultation on Gut Health and Immune Function Health ClaimsAs part of the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA; Parma, Italy) ongoing series of public consultations on health claims guidance, the agency has announced that it will hold a meeting on scientific requirements for gut health and immune function health claims on December 2, 2010 in Amsterdam.The meeting will come after a public consultation on a gut health draft guidance, which will be presented to the public in October. This draft guidance will later be revised, taking into consideration the December meeting’s discussions and those comments submitted to EFSA up to that point. Gut health experts and food industry scientists will be allowed to participate in the meeting. Open registration begins in September and is limited to around 100, says EFSA. Other future health claims consultations planned by EFSA include blood glucose control and weight management, energy, and satiety (February 2011); cardiovascular health and protection against oxidative damage (May 2011); cognitive function and bone, joint, and oral health (September 2011); and physical performance (February 2012). For more information, visit EFSA here |
| published date: 08-12-2010 |
NIH Provides Bone-Health DataNew NIH website offers easy access to information on bone healthThe National Institutes of Health has enabled a new resource on its website to provide the latest science-based information on bone health and bone disease. The site provides information such as strategies for bone health, including the prevention and management of osteoporosis. In addition, a Check Up On Your Bones tool, an online interactive bone health assessment, provides personalized information on osteoporosis risk, as well as approaches to enhance bone health. Materials on the site fill important gaps in information, such as the lack of knowledge among men about osteoporosis. Members of various multicultural communities, including Hispanics and Latinos, African-Americans, Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders, and American Indians and Alaska Natives, will find resources specific to their needs. Bone health information is available in English, Spanish and Chinese languages. |
| published date: 08-12-2010 |
Energy Drinks/Shots See Increase in Sales, Not CustomersEnergy drinks/shots manufacturers are having difficulties attracting new customers, despite a 136% increase in sales from 2005 to 2009, says the research firm Mintel (Chicago). In fact, 74% of those surveyed say they don’t consume energy drinks/shots and 69% of those non-users are not interested in trying them.Mintel’s global market navigator (GMN) found that Americans consume 3.05L of energy drinks per capita each year, but energy drink market penetration remained flat at 15% of all adults aged 18 and older during 2007-2009. Energy drinks/shots non-users cite high prices (48%), too much caffeine (43%), and a general feeling that energy drinks/shots just aren’t good for you (43%) as reasons why they have not consumed any in the past three months. “Sales of energy drinks and shots have remained relatively strong for the last few years, but the same core group of customers continues to buy them,” says Garima Goel Lal, senior analyst at Mintel. “The category added only one million new energy drink users aged 18 and older from 2007 to 2009, compared to 9.3 million new users from 2005 to 2007, so manufacturers are eager to grow that number again.” Sixteen percent of energy drink non-users and 14% of energy shot non-users would be encouraged to try an energy drink or shot if free samples were offered at a store where they usually shop. Meanwhile, 14% of non-users would be more likely to try energy drinks (11% for energy shots) if they had natural ingredients. “The fact that seven out of 10 people are not interested in the energy drink category suggests the need for manufacturers to develop products aimed at a wider audience,” adds Goel Lal. “Providing consumers with more flavors, less sugar, and reduced caffeine content are all ways for companies to attract more customers.” Seventy-one percent of energy drink users (80% of energy shot users) consume them for an energy boost, 57% of energy drink users employ them to stay awake, and 60% of energy shot users say they drink them for mental alertness. Energy drink/shot consumers are more likely to use energy shots (30%) than energy drinks (23%) to enhance sports performance. Original Source: Mintel |
| published date: 08-11-2010 |
Super-ORAC MangosteenNP Nutra (Gardena, CA) has added a certified-organic mangosteen powder to its Super ORAC line of ingredients. Compared to other mangosteen products, Super ORAC mangosteen powder has an unmatched ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) content of 1500-1800 umole TE/g, says the company.Mangosteen comprises a range of antioxidant xanthones, most of which are concentrated in the fruit’s pericarp. Each of these chemically beneficial molecules has its own specific quality, and no other known plant offers the same quantity and variety of xanthones as mangosteen does. The whole fruit is used to produce the fruit powder with exceptionally high ORAC content. For more information, visit NP Nutra. |
| published date: 08-10-2010 |
Research Supports Omegas for Eye ProtectionOmega-3s are looking good for healthy eye function, thanks to a new study in the Journal of Lipid Research.Researchers at the University of Utah investigated the relationships between ocular levels of very long chain fatty acids and long chain fatty acids, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Using human donor eyes and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry methods to detect fatty acid presence, the researchers made several key findings related to omega-3s. Donor eyes were dissected within 26 hours of death and categorized into four groups: young, middle-aged, old, and age-matched AMD. Concerning docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 commonly marketed in algal and fish oils, the researchers found that DHA and adrenic acid (AA; an omega-6) levels in retinal tissues significantly decreased in AMD eyes compared to old, non-AMD eyes. Furthermore, AA/DHA and omega-6/omega-3 ratios significantly increased in the AMD group compared to the old group. In the middle-aged group, ratios were detected as significantly lower. The researchers also reported that “Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), one of the major components of fish oil, accounted for less than 0.29% of retinal lipids.” “Our results support the potential value of interventions to increase retinal [very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids] and to decrease n-6/n-3 ratios in the prevention and treatment of AMD,” concluded the researchers. An abstract and the full study can be read here. |
| published date: 08-09-2010 |
Senate Passes Child Nutrition BillBy unanimous vote, the U.S. Senate has passed S.3307, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, which is reported to be the biggest financial increase for school lunch programs in recent decades.Introduced by Senator Blanche Lincoln (D-AR), the bill requires all food sold in school lunch programs to reflect current Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Expanded education on proper nutrition and better efficiency in enrolling students into meal programs (via paperwork) are other provisions in the bill. Regarding financial numbers, the bill is projected to provide a six-cent increase to the value of every school meal during the bill's life. Nutritional Outlook will continue reporting on this story as information emerges, including details on how the bill could affect nutritional markets. The House's version of the bill, H.R.5504, the Improving Nutrition for America's Children Act, is still awaiting a vote. |
| published date: 08-06-2010 |
Industry Responds to Consumer Reports Attack on Supplement SafetyA cover story in Consumer Reports’ September issue questioning the safety of dietary supplements—and the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) ability to monitor the category—has industry on the defensive.Titled “Dangerous Supplements: What You Don’t Know About These 12 Ingredients Could Hurt You,” the article infers that many supplements on the market are unsafe, unmonitored, and lack the science to prove their efficacy. Moreover, the authors provide a list of 12 ingredients on the market that they consider dangerous and linked to adverse side effects, according to information provided to them from independent research group Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database: aconite (Aconitum), bitter orange (Citrus aurantium), chaparral (Larrea tridentata), colloidal silver, coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara), comfrey (Symphytum officinale), country mallow (Sida cordifolia), Geranium, greater celandine (Chelidonium majus), kava (Piper methysticum), lobelia (Lobelia inflata), and yohimbe (Pausinystalia yohimbe). The article also provides a “safe” list: calcium, cranberry, fish oil, glucosamine sulfate, lactase, Lactobacillus probiotics, psyllium, pygeum, SAMe, St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), and vitamin D. FDA’s current methods of regulating industry, including its enforcement through the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), are inadequate for ensuring supplement safety, the article says. “FDA has not made full use of even the meager authority granted it by the industry-friendly DSHEA,” write the authors, saying that DSHEA is not effective in protecting consumers in a timely fashion. “Under DSHEA, it is difficult for the FDA to put together strong enough evidence to order products off the market. To date, it has banned only one ingredient, ephedrine alkaloids. That effort dragged on for a decade….Instead of attempting any more outright bans, the agency issued warnings, detained imported products, and asked companies to recall products it considered unsafe.” “Because of inadequate quality control and inspection, supplements contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, or prescription drugs have been sold to unsuspecting consumers,” the authors add. Finally, the article questions the science, or what it says is a lack thereof, supporting the efficacy of supplements being sold. “Of the more than 54,000 dietary supplements in the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, only about a third have some level of safety and effectiveness that is supported by scientific evidence....And close to 12% have been linked to safety concerns or problems with product quality.” Industry associations are speaking out against the story, which Andrew Shao, senior vice president, scientific and regulatory affairs, Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC), called “a little bit sensationalized” in an interview with WebMD. “Any time you pick adverse experiences from a handful of individuals, you know it is being sensationalized. It doesn’t represent the totality of the evidence. Some of these ingredients [in the report] have been flagged by the FDA years ago,” he is quoted as saying. Steve Mister, CRN president and CEO, pointed out in an interview with ABC News that the 12 ingredients the article calls unsafe represent just a small minority of the overall supplement market. In an advisory to its members, the American Botanical Council (Austin, TX) pointed to what it says is a past history of “flawed” reporting by Consumer Reports on dietary supplements. “Though this article is flawed and incorporates inadequate information on the safety of many of the herbs, it is in numerous ways an improvement over the cover story Consumer Reports ran in May 2004. The previous cover story contained so much erroneous information on herbs that it was readily apparent that the editors had not run the article by anyone with any real experience or expertise in herbal or dietary supplement research.” CRN also underlined that, contrary to the article’s implications, the industry is regulated. “The dietary supplement industry is regulated by FDA, and under the law, the agency has the authority to remove from the market any product it believes to be hazardous to consumers. The dietary supplement industry has fought for stronger enforcement of regulation to further ensure consumer safety.” “We recommend that consumers follow label directions, buy products from reputable companies, and talk with their doctors or other healthcare professionals about the supplements they take,” the association concluded. Read the original Consumer Reports story here |
| published date: 08-04-2010 |
Nestlé Acquires Vitaflo for $38 MillionNestlé has acquired Vitaflo (Liverpool, UK), a global provider of clinical nutritional products, for 40 million francs ($38 million), according to a Nestlé press release sent out on Monday. The transaction allows Nestlé to enter the global market for clinical nutrition products tailor-made for people with inherited metabolic disorders. This sector is growing rapidly as improved diagnosis and screening enable increasing numbers of cases to be detected, and new advances in science demonstrate the benefits of specialised nutrition as an integral part of clinical management.Vitaflo has approximate annual sales of CHF 40 million ($38 million) and has enjoyed double-digit growth in the order of 30% over the last 3 years. The acquisition price is not disclosed. Vitaflo's products are developed for infants, children, and adults with genetic disorders that affect how food is processed by the body. These disorders include phenylketonuria (PKU), maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) and homocystinuria (HCU). Inborn errors of metabolism are infrequent at an estimated 1 in 2,500-50,000 births depending on the disorder but persist from birth to adulthood. They constitute a significant proportion of genetic disorders detected in newborn babies. Vitaflo's successful business model is underpinned by its leading science, research and product development. It is well aligned with Nestlé's global commitment to develop innovative nutritional solutions with proven health benefits, and to work with health care providers and caregivers in offering foods for people with specific nutritional needs. "We are delighted to welcome Vitaflo into our company, whose people bring with them valuable expertise and know-how in clinical nutrition,” says Richard Laube, CEO of Nestlé Nutrition. “This will help us to expand our innovation potential in the area of high quality products for infants, children and adults with very specific nutritional needs," Original Source: Nestlé |
| published date: 08-03-2010 |
FDA’s Self-Assessment of the Reportable Food RegistryThe Food and Drug Administration (Rockville, MD) held a teleconference last week highlighting the agency’s first seven months of experience using its new Reportable Food Registry. The Reportable Food Registry is an online portal that enables food manufacturers and other bodies to submit online reports of adverse events.“We know that even as we build a stronger prevention system to minimize contamination incidents, we will get incidents and we will get problems occurring,” said Ira Allen of FDA’s office of public affairs. “So, part of the prevention system is to be able to obtain rapidly and to share between government and industry information on these incidents so we can act quickly to keep the products from reaching consumers.” In assessing the Registry’s role in motivating more efficient adverse event reporting, Allen said, “It’s a very important complement because it doesn’t rely on us being at a facility or sampling the product ourselves to detect problems… [and] it is a complement to a number of ways in which we learn about problems.” Over these first several months, FDA states that close to 125 “primary” reports were received out of over 1800 reports in total. “Of the 125 reports, looking at the data, there was one [report] that did have an adverse event, and it actually resulted in a recall,” said Kathy Gombas, acting deputy directory of FDA’s Office of Food Defense Communication and Emergency Response. “The company had received one report of four family members who had an adverse reaction to the product. It was an allergic reaction and that was the only one that actually caused a serious adverse condition. All the others had the potential, but did not result in [a recall].” For more information or to access the Reportable Food Registry, click here. |
| published date: 08-02-2010 |
Roquette Receives Distinction for Pea ProteinThe market research firm Frost & Sullivan (San Antonio, TX) has named Roquette (Lestrem, France) a recipient of its 2010 product differentiation excellence award for the company’s Nutralys brand pea protein.Nutralys is an organic pea protein derived from yellow pea (Pisum sativum) and easy to use in food products, according to Roquette. It offers a wide variety of applications, including gluten-free food, snacks and cereals, pet food, and encapsulation. Frost & Sullivan awarded Roquette because of the company’s innovation of the pea protein’s sensory profile, namely for a more neutral taste and odor. “At present, the taste of vegetable proteins persists in being one of the foremost developmental obstacles,” said Roquette in a company press release. “In order to be successful, pea protein isolates need to have a neutral taste, which will not impact the characteristic organoleptic qualities of the finished products. Upon the discovery of an exclusive process, Roquette assumed the challenge of disabling the taste of pea protein and launched a new version of its protein: Nutralys S85F.” For more information on Nutralys, click here. |
| published date: 08-02-2010 |
Ethical Naturals’ High-ORAC Grape Extract Now GRAS-AffirmedEthical Naturals (San Anselmo, CA) has attained Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status for its ORAC-15M antioxidant ingredient, a grape extract intended to provide antioxidants to supplements and beverages. Available in a highly soluble powder form with low flavor and color profiles, the ingredient is standardized for 80% polyphenols and 15,000 ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) units per gram. ORAC is a widely-used gauge for antioxidant levels of ingredients and ORAC-15M’s high ORAC value makes it suitable for improving antioxidant activity and cardiovascular health, says the company.“We are very pleased to have completed the lengthy GRAS affirmation process for ORAC-15M,” said Cal Bewicke, president of Ethical Naturals. “We greatly value our customers and manufacturing partners in the beverage industry, and this is one more way we can support them, through our ongoing program of GRAS affirmation.” The GRAS procedure for Ethical Naturals’ grape extract was self-affirmed and was verified by Life Science Research Organization (Bethesda, MD). Ethical Naturals is currently working on moving several other ingredients to GRAS distinction. The company recently attained GRAS status for its AlphaWave L-Theanine ingredient. |
| published date: 08-02-2010 |
CRN Refutes Meta-Analysis Linking Calcium Supplements to Heart AttackA meta-analysis of 15 studies has concluded that “calcium supplements are associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack),” but the study , published online yesterday at the British Medical Journal, has received swift criticism from industry organizations.According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC), these conclusions are dramatically overstated, considering the limitations of meta-analysis, in general, and this meta-analysis, specifically. “For example, the analysis could have potentially included over 300 scientific studies on calcium supplementation’s effect on bone, but only 15 randomized clinical trials were deemed ‘eligible for analysis,’” said Andrew Shao, PhD, senior vice president of scientific & regulatory affairs at CRN. Further, seven of the 15 trials evaluated had no, or incomplete, data on cardiovascular outcomes, and only five of the 15 studies accounted for almost all of the cardiovascular outcomes. Further, because the researchers chose to exclude any trials administering calcium plus vitamin D, many large, important trials—including the Women’s Health Initiative, which found calcium plus vitamin D had no effect on the risk of coronary heart disease or stroke—were not included. “The authors characterize these findings as though all of the selected studies suggest increased risk. In fact, the opposite is true: most of the studies do not suggest increased risk,” said Shao. “Bone health is one of the most common reasons why health care professionals recommend calcium supplements; there are other health benefits that may be associated with calcium supplementation, such as reduction of colon cancer risk. This is not even considered by the authors. It’s unfortunate that these researchers are making sweeping judgments about the value of calcium supplements by only assessing a handful of handpicked studies.” Shao also pointed out that none of the original studies included in the meta-analysis were designed to evaluate cardiovascular outcomes. Additionally, the data on cardiovascular events was never previously published, so the meta-analysts had to track the information down separately, in some cases, 10 even 20 years after the original study was published. “Meta-analysis can be a useful tool for scientific evaluation, but we have to recognize its limitations, and keep in mind that its findings are based on a collection of past studies that may have different designs, doses and study populations,” said Shao. “This analysis should not dissuade consumers, particularly young women, from taking calcium supplements. They should talk with their doctors about their current and long-term needs and determine how much calcium they are getting from their diets, and supplement accordingly—likely in combination with vitamin D.” Original Source: The Council for Responsible Nutrition |
| published date: 07-30-2010 |
US Farms to Enter Aloe Energy MarketUS Farms Inc., a marketer of aloe-based products, has turned its eye to creating aloe-based energy beverages. The company also announced plans to construct a new facility to bring production in house, according to Marketwire.The company plans to construct a 2000-sq-ft facility to increase capabilities for multiple flavors and formulations of energy drinks, as well as to reformulate and produce the brand’s existing aloe products, such as Aloe365 Skin Gel. The company says that it chose to bring production in house, instead of relying on contract manufacturing, for cost reasons. “We have had our eye on the energy drink market for some time and feel that marketing and selling an aloe-based energy drink in a 16-oz bottle is a direction that we need to pursue to move the company forward,” says CEO Yan Skwara. “We have had some issues with manufacturers involving pricing and supply,” Skwara adds. “Our new product direction will alleviate some of these matters, as our overall goal is to handle all manufacturing in house and even take on private-label business.” For more information on the company, click here. |
| published date: 07-30-2010 |
Black Teens May Require More Vitamin D, Study FindsBlack teens may require much more vitamin D for healthy intake than previously thought, according to a study published online last week at the Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism.Researchers administered 400 or 2000 IU of vitamin D to 49 black teens (male and female) daily for 16 weeks. A primary aim of the study was to determine if vitamin D intake influences arterial stiffness, so arterial stiffness was measured using carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), a common way of achieving this measurement. The higher intake of vitamin D resulted in higher vitamin D levels in patients at weeks 8 and 16. Furthermore, at the completion of the trial, researchers determined that 400 IU of vitamin D resulted in an increase of PWV from baseline to post-test (from 5.38 to 5.71 meters per second). However, the higher dose of vitamin D resulted in a decrease in PWV (from 5.41 to 5.33 meters per second). “Daily 2000 IU vitamin D supplementation may be effective in optimizing vitamin D status and counteracting the progression of aortic stiffness in black youth,” wrote the study author. The average age of the patients was 16 years, yet the current "adequate intake" of vitamin D for this age, according to the National Institutes of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements, is 200 IU. To read the study abstract, click here. |
| published date: 07-29-2010 |
Naturex Posts Strong Results for First Half of 2010Botanical-ingredients supplier Naturex cited “very strong acceleration in growth” in the second quarter of 2010. Sales in the second half of 2010 grew 15.4% over sales in the second half a year ago, in 2009, with revenue totaling €112.8 million.The company said that its acquisition of the ingredients division of Natraceutical helped spur business, although sales were also up throughout the group. The company said that such positive results have given it a “clear start on its targets for 2010—growth of 5 to 10%, like for like—notching up an impressive performance given the current economic backdrop.” Each of the group’s divisions and geographic sectors enjoyed new growth over the first half of 2010. The food and beverage group now accounts for 59.7% of the group’s sales, nutrition and health for 34.0%, and personal care for 1.1%. Europe and Africa account for 54.0% of group activity, North and South America for 35.9%, and Asia/Pacific for 10.1%. Original source: Naturex |
| published date: 07-28-2010 |
Big Population Study Links Fiber Intake to Heart HealthFiber intake comes with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to a large-scale study published in the August issue of the Journal of Nutrition.Researchers spent 14 years of follow-up on 58,730 Japanese men and women, ages 40 to 79, who submitted food frequency questionnaires relating to their fiber intakes. The results indicate that higher total fiber intake was associated with a lower incidence of death from CVD in both men and women. The association was evident from all fiber intakes except for vegetale fiber. "The inverse association of fruit and cereal fiber intakes, but not vegetable fiber intake, with mortality from CHD (coronary heart disease) in the present study were consistent with findings from previous studies,"wrote the study author. The Japanese study excluded subjects with known cardiovascular or cancer disease, but the authors claim one weakness of the study was a lack of multiple measures on the diet; subject eating habits could likely have changed over the long course of the study. To read the full text of this study, visit the Journal of Nutrition.. |
| published date: 07-27-2010 |
Congress Introduces New Cosmetic Safety BillA new bill has been introduced to Congress to create new regulatory oversight for the U.S. cosmetics industry. The Safe Cosmetics Act of 2010 (H.R. 5786) calls for a list of ingredients prohibited from use in cosmetics, new recall authority for FDA, randomized post-market cosmetics testing, and new registration fees for companies, according to Representative Jan Schakowski (D-IL) who introduced the bill last week.Addressing the potential concern small companies could have with new registration fees, all companies with annual gross incomes of under $1 million would be exempt from such fees. Schakowski’s bill currently has seven co-sponsors. To read the full language of the bill, click here. |
| published date: 07-26-2010 |
Hormel Foods Marries Omega-3, Vitamin DA new ingredient combining omega-3 EPA/DHA and vitamin D debuted from Hormel Foods at last week’s Institute of Food Technologists’ Annual Meeting & Food Expo.Called Eterna OmegaSource, the ingredient, which can be added to foods and beverages, is designed for optimum stability. The company says that although omega-3 EPA/DHA and vitamin D can present stability issues, especially when exposed to light, the company’s technologies help stabilize and protect those ingredients, allowing for emulsion in water-based drinks. The ingredient is allergen free, GMO free, GRAS affirmed, and kosher. “Demand for vitamin D fortification is on the rise, and omega-3 EPA/DHA is as popular as ever,” said Dr. Chet Rao, marketing manager for Hormel Foods Specialty Products, in a press release. Original source: Hormel Foods. |
| published date: 07-23-2010 |
GLG Life Tech Premieres BlendSure Stevia SweetenerGLG Life Tech Corporation (GLG; Vancouver, BC), a supplier and developer of stevia (Stevia rebaudiana), has launched its new BlendSure stevia-based sweetener. BlendSure was introduced at the Institute of Food Technologists conference in Chicago.GLG researchers developed BlendSure by isolating various components of the stevia plant and then blending them in a proprietary ratio to deliver a consistent, balanced, and sucrose-like taste profile that is heat-stable and pH-stable, and works in a carbonated beverage formulation. “BlendSure is the first product in our industry that offers a blended stevia-based sweetening system that combines specific glycosides such as rebaudioside A and pure stevioside together to deliver sugar–like sweetness while also providing a favorable cost of goods position for our customers” said James Kempland, GLG vice president of marketing. “As a leader in the stevia industry, we continue to develop innovative stevia-based product offerings like BlendSure, which address emerging needs in the sweetener market.” GLG developed BlendSure to provide food and beverage companies and consumers with a natural sweetener with zero calories, zero carbohydrates, and a zero glycemic index, at a price point that is comparable and competitive to sugar. The product can be used both in food and beverages, and as a tabletop sweetener, in order to reduce calories and provide a stable sweetening system that offers flexibility and scope in formulation. BlendSure may also be combined with other natural sweeteners such as sugar. BlendSure has met all of the requirements for self-affirmed Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status and has received a letter of certification from GRAS Associates (Bend, OR), whose experts specialize in the technical and regulatory aspects of obtaining and defending GRAS status for the food, supplement, and chemical industries. GLG will additionally file its dossier for a no-objection letter from the FDA in the near future. Original Source: GLG Life Tech |
| published date: 07-23-2010 |
Naturex Continues Humanitarian Efforts AbroadBotanicals specialist Naturex has announced new efforts in Mongolia and Cambodia to improve the global communities from which the company sources raw materials.In Mongola, a project headed by Naadam, a French NGO, is working with local inhabitants to create food-producing gardens to combat malnutrition. The program includes tactics such as teaching proper gardening techniques. Naturex will conduct a thorough assessment to help the implementation of an expert agronomist. In Cambodia, Naturex is supporting the Agriculture Diversification Around Siem Reap, a program conducted by NGO Agrisud, which Naturex works with in Morocco and India. A new project in Northwest Cambodia will trial new agricultural systems with 40 farmers and families (and eventually to 320 farmers), in order to ensure food supply. Naturex has also announced an increasing number of its clients interested in contributing to its Foundation. As a result, the company has created an endowment fund, whose contributions will contribute to the Foundation’s actions. |
| published date: 07-22-2010 |
Cyvex Grape Extracts Now GRAS-ApprovedCyvex Nutrition (Irvine, CA) has received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for its BioVin(R) full spectrum grape extract and BioVin(R) 20 grape skin extract, according to a company announcement made yesterday. The successful GRAS status qualifies the extracts for safe used in a wide-range of functional foods and beverages. The process involved an intensive review of safety and toxicology data by an independent panel of qualified experts."With this GRAS designation for our BioVin extracts, manufacturers can now transform conventional food and beverage offerings into functional products that deliver powerful antioxidant and heart health benefits," says Matt Phillips, president of Cyvex Nutrition. "We have seen our BioVin Advanced ingredient effectively incorporated into innovative finished products such as ResVez’s Winetime bar, and we expect BioVin to experience similar success, especially in beverage applications due to its high solubility." BioVin is a full spectrum grape extract manufactured from whole red wine grapes from the Rhone Valley in France. By using the grape in its entirety - including stems, seeds, and skin - all the beneficial phytochemicals can be extracted, including anthocyanidins, proanthocyanidins, trans-resveratrol, and polyphenols. BioVin is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals, reducing oxidative damage to cells. It helps support resistance to oxidation, which provides cardiovascular protection, and may also help poor capillary elasticity and structure by inhibiting harmful enzymes. BioVin 20 contains no less than 20% polyphenols. Original Source: Cyvex Nutrition |
| published date: 07-22-2010 |
Sabinsa Granted Patent for Forskolin ProcessThe New Zealand Patent Office has granted a patent to Sabinsa for processes to prepare derivatives of forskolin, namely, isoforskolin and 7-deacetylforskolin.NZ Patent No: 568652 “Commercial Process for Making Forskolin and its Derivatives” will be in force until February 2, 2027. This most recent patent is #63 in Sabinsa’s worldwide Intellectual Property portfolio. Additionally, Sabinsa has more than 50 pending patent applications worldwide. This patent furthers Sabinsa’s ability to protect their Intellectual Property as they make inroads into Oceania. The company recently received Product Information (PI) numbers for ForsLean 10% and 20% from Australia’s TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration), a division of the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, opening the way for ForsLean to enter the Australian market. Press release by Sabinsa |
| published date: 07-21-2010 |
New Study Says Tonalin CLA Delivers Health Benefits for Mild AsthmaticsIn the first published study of its kind, Tonalin CLA was found to improve airway hyperreactivity in overweight mild asthmatics accompanied by a significant improvement in their tolerance for strenuous exercise.Adults taking Tonalin CLA also reduced their body weight and BMI by 2 kg (4.4 lbs) and 0.5 kg/m2 over time, which was associated with a metabolically favorable change in adipokine concentrations. The reductions observed in the CLA group were significantly different from the placebo group, confirming once again a beneficial impact of CLA on weight and body-fat management. The prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled intervention trial, published in the July edition of the Journal of Clinical & Experimental Allergy, was conducted by a team of researchers at the University of British Colombia, Vancouver, Canada. In the 12-week study, supplementation of Tonalin CLA was an adjunct to usual care in overweight asthmatics and was well tolerated. The 28 mildly asthmatic men and women were randomized to consume 4.5 g/daily of Tonalin CLA or a placebo. In their discussion, researchers stated that CLA could be beneficial for asthma treatment for a number of reasons. Diets rich in milk fat, an important source of CLA, have been associated with a lower risk of asthma symptoms 2,3. Biological activities of CLA including the regulation of inflammation 4-6 and reduction of body fat mass 7 are described as consistent with the potential benefits in asthma. Press release by Cognis |
| published date: 07-21-2010 |
Frost & Sullivan Confirm Omega-3 BoomIn a new report on omega-3's, market research firm Frost & Sullivan (San Antonio, TX) confirms that the fatty acids will drive consumer demand in the coming years.Frost & Sullivan's report, "Strategic Analysis of the European Marine and Algae Oil Omega-3 Ingredients Market," finds that the market earned revenues of $323 million in 2008 and estimates this to reach $525 million in 2013. Manufacturers who recognize the link between consumer awareness and product marketability are branding their ingredients on consumer food and beverage products. Meanwhile, the Global Organization of EPA & DHA Omega-3 (GOED), an industry organization, has funded Purdue University in the United States to establish the Omega-3 Learning Consortium for Health and Medicine to provide credible information about omega-3 fatty acids to consumers, health professionals, and the media. "Industry associations have been successfully formed to protect their interests and voice their opinions to government agencies charged with regulating food ingredients," says Frost & Sullivan research sonsultant Christopher Shanahan. "These associations play a critical role in addressing crucial legislative challenges facing the industry and in providing opportunities that benefit the overall growth of the market." The projected 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2008 to 2013 in the marine and algae oil omega-3 ingredient market is likely to jump-start key condition-specific health markets such as cognitive health, joint health, and immune health; however, the omega-3 industry is facing an increasingly complex set of technological, environmental, and regulatory changes. "On February 12, 2010, the European Parliament approved nutrition claims for omega-3s allowing food products to claim they are either a 'source of omega-3 fatty acids' or that they contain 'high omega-3 fatty acids'," notes Shanahan. "This is a positive development because it will enhance both consumer awareness and usage across Europe, in countries where consumers already understand the value of omega-3s." Despite these favourable conditions, participants have a lot of ground to cover with regard to awareness and acceptance. They have been greatly assisted in their endeavours by positive media coverage. They have also benefited from an aging population that is more predisposed to chronic illness such as cardiac disorders, strokes, osteoporosis, and cancers. "A larger number of consumers consider food products an alternative means to prevent many diseases and adverse health conditions such as cardiovascular disease," observes Shanahan. "The demand for omega-3 ingredients is directly related to the escalating incidence of cardiovascular disease in developed countries and it significantly hikes the unit consumption." Original Source: Frost & Sullivan |
| published date: 07-21-2010 |
Carlyle Group Acquires NBTYThe Carlyle Group (Washington, DC) just picked up NBTY, Inc. (Ronkonkoma, NY) for $3.8 billion in cash.Under the terms of the merger agreement, Carlyle will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of NBTY for $55.00 per share in cash, representing a premium of approximately 57% over NBTY's average closing share price during the 30 trading days ended July 14, 2010. The board of directors of NBTY has unanimously approved the merger agreement and recommended that NBTY's stockholders adopt the agreement with Carlyle. A special meeting of NBTY's stockholders will be held as soon as practicable after the preparation and filing of a proxy statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Washington, DC) and subsequent mailing to shareholders. The mailing of the proxy statement is expected to take place following the expiration of the 35-day calendar period following the date of the merger agreement, during the course of which NBTY is permitted to solicit alternative proposals from third parties. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2010. Completion of the transaction is subject to customary conditions to closing, including approval of NBTY stockholders and regulatory approvals, but is not subject to any condition with regard to the financing of the transaction. The transaction has fully committed financing, consisting of a combination of equity contributed by Carlyle Partners V, a $13.7 billion U.S. buyout fund, and external debt financing provided by BofA Merrill Lynch (New York City), Barclays Capital (London), and Credit Suisse (Zurich, Switzerland). Commenting on the transaction, NBTY chairman and CEO Scott Rudolph said, "This transaction delivers exceptional value to our shareholders. For our wholesale and retail customers, our commitment to quality and innovation will continue to be our focus. We will leverage Carlyle's global resources and consumer sector knowledge to further drive the company's global growth." Sandra Horbach, Carlyle managing director and head of the consumer and retail sector team, said, "NBTY is an outstanding business with well-established brands, a proven vertically integrated multi-channel/multi-geography strategy, and strong, long-standing customer relationships. We are impressed with the business that has been built under the leadership of Scott Rudolph, and are excited to work with him and the senior management team to drive continued growth." Original Source: NBTY Inc. |
| published date: 07-20-2010 |
Who Won at IFT?As the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Annual Meeting & Food Expo rolled through the weekend, this year’s innovation award winners were announced. The winners are Bunge North America (St. Louis), Caravan Ingredients (Lenexa, KS), Handary SA (Brussels) and co-recipients Bühler Barth AG (Freiberg am Neckar, Germany) and Log5 Corp. (Phoenix, MD).A panel of nine jurors from industry and government with broad expertise in research and product development, processing and packaging technology, and food safety selected the five companies and their innovations from 56 qualified entries. Only companies exhibiting at the 2010 IFT Food Expo in Chicago were eligible. One of the awards was for a bakery shortening with phytosterols. Co-recipients Bühler Barth AG and Log5 Corporation (Booth #6616) garnered the 2010 IFT Food Expo Innovation Award for their Controlled Condensation Process Pasteurization Technology, which pasteurizes low-water-activity foods, such as tree nuts, peanuts, spices, and grains, and preserves the natural quality of the food. The technology maintains thermal equilibrium conditions by controlling pressure, temperature, surface condensation, and moisture levels. Bunge North America (Booth #4047) won the award for its Phytobake Shortening with Phytosterols. The functional shortening for bakery applications enables the dilution of the amount of traditional hard fat or saturates and trans fats used in the plastic shortenings by up to 46%. Bakers using this ingredient can produce healthier sweet goods, such as cookies, pie crusts, and cakes. Caravan Ingredients (Booth #3823) was honored for its Trancendim Emulsifiers for Zero Trans Shortening—a zero trans, reduced saturated fat alternative for structuring fats and oils that mimics or improves the melting behavior of common fat-based products. Applications include salad dressings, frying oils, margarines, and bakery products. Users can create better-for-you products without sacrificing taste or mouthfeel. Handary SA (Booth #6341) captured the 2010 IFT Food Expo Innovation Award for its NisinA Natural Antimicrobial Agent, a vegetable-based natural product that can improve food safety by controlling foodborne pathogens, such as Clostridium botulinum, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus cereus. It also extends the shelf life of foods by controlling lactic acid bacteria and prevents the formation of bacteria due to high temperatures. Original Source: Institute of Food Technologists. |
| published date: 07-19-2010 |
FDA Analysis Motivates Recall of Weight Loss SupplementJ & H Besta Corp. (Hicksville, NY) has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of its Slim-30 herbal supplement after the Food and Drug Administration (Rockville, MD) confirmed trace amounts of N-Desmethyl Sibutramine and Sibutramine in the weight loss supplement. Sibutramine is an FDA-approved drug for weight loss.Slim-30 contains Chinese hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida), sickle-pod seed (Senna obtusifolia), oyster shell, and sacred lotus leaf (Nelumbo nucifera), according to the company’s website. |
| published date: 07-19-2010 |
CRN Calls New Dietary Guidelines Committee’s Comments on Multivitamins UnfoundedThe Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) has submitted its comments regarding what it says are inaccurate statements about multivitamins in the recently released 2010 Dietary Guidelines Advisory (DGAC) Committee Report—a report that will help shape the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.CRN took issue with a number of “unqualified” comments about multivitamins, citing the report’s “inaccuracies in its interpretation of the scientific evidence.” In particular, such statements in the report were criticized: • “A daily multivitamin/mineral supplement does not offer health benefits to healthy Americans…” (DGAC report, A-5) • “…vitamin mineral supplements have been associated with harmful effects and should be pursued cautiously…” (DGAC report, A-6) • “…reliance of multivitamin/mineral supplements is discouraged…” (DGAC report, D2-41) In its comments, CRN president and CEO Steve Mister chastised the report for limiting its evaluation to the effects of vitamins on chronic disease, rather than the health benefits of multivitamins in helping maintain sufficient nutrition. “These conclusions ignore the demonstrated fact that the primary effect of multivitamins, which is to help consumers to reach the recommended levels of intake for various vitamins and minerals, is in itself a ‘health benefit,’” wrote Mister in his comments. “[Such statements] have the potential to dissuade consumers from using a multivitamin, resulting in additional gaps in nutrition for the millions of Americans who currently use a daily multivitamin,” he continued. In his comments, Andrew Shao, PhD, senior vice president, scientific and regulatory affairs for CRN, added, “CRN agrees with the 2010 DGAC Report that people should strive to obtain their nutrients by maintaining a varied diet of nutrient-dense foods while monitoring their caloric intake…[but] the report goes beyond a ‘food first’ approach and adopts a ‘food only’ point of view.” Mister’s and Shao’s complete comments can be viewed here. |
| published date: 07-16-2010 |
Nordic Naturals Combines Fish Oil, ProbioticsNordic Naturals has introduced Omega Probiotic, a blend of fish oil and Bacillus coagulans probiotics, marketed for digestive health.In a press release, the company said, “Concentrated fish oil works in synergy with a unique spore-form probiotic, Bacillus coagulans, to deliver all the health benefits of omega-3 (EPA and DHA), while also supporting the immune system and promoting an optimal balance of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract.” Bacillus coagulans is a spore form of bacteria, which Nordic Naturals says delivers more live cultures than common probiotic yogurt cultures and does not require special storage conditions such as refrigeration. More than two billion spores are provided in each serving of Omega Probiotic. |
| published date: 07-15-2010 |
UAS Laboratories’ DDS Probiotics Now Kosher-CertifiedUAS Laboratories announced that its proprietary DDS probiotic line—including DDS-Plus, Probioplus DDS, DDS Acidophilus, and DDS Junior—have been kosher-certified by OK Kosher.The company eventually plans to apply kosher certification to all of its private-label probiotics and probiotic raw materials, blends, bulk capsules, tablets, and powders. |
| published date: 07-15-2010 |
Standard Process Introduces ProSynbioticProSynbiotic, a new probiotic product from Standard Process, is a synergistic blend of four research-supported beneficial probiotic strains and two prebiotic fibers that supports gut and overall intestinal health.“ProSynbiotic contains beneficial probiotic microbes to help maintain a healthy gut environment,” said David Barnes, PhD, the company’s director of research and development, in a press release. “Having these ingredients together—the probiotic strains and the food they use to thrive—in one capsule suggests that ProSynbiotic can provide the right building blocks for a healthy microbial environment.” |
| published date: 07-15-2010 |
NBTY Acquired by Carlyle GroupNBTY Agrees to Be Acquired by the Carlyle Group for $55.00 Per Share in Cash; Transaction Valued at $3.8 Billion; NBTY is a Leading Nutritional Supplement CompanyNBTY, Inc. (NYSE: NTY), a leading global manufacturer and marketer of nutritional supplements, today announced the execution of a definitive merger agreement under which The Carlyle Group will acquire NBTY in a transaction valued at $3.8 billion. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Carlyle will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of NBTY for $55.00 per share in cash, representing a premium of approximately 57% over NBTY's average closing share price during the 30 trading days ended July 14, 2010. The board of directors of NBTY has unanimously approved the merger agreement and recommended that NBTY's stockholders adopt the agreement with Carlyle. A special meeting of NBTY's stockholders will be held as soon as practicable after the preparation and filing of a proxy statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission and subsequent mailing to shareholders. The mailing of the proxy statement is expected to take place following the expiration of the 35 calendar day period following the date of the merger agreement, during the course of which NBTY is permitted to solicit alternative proposals from third parties. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2010. Original source: NBTY |
| published date: 07-15-2010 |
$5.5 Million FTC Settlement Against Iovate Health SciencesDietary Supplement Maker to Pay $5.5 Million to Settle FTC False Advertising Charges; FTC Challenges Claims that Supplements Cause Weight Loss and Treat or Prevent Colds, Flu, Allergies, and Hay FeverAs part of its ongoing efforts to stop bogus health claims, the Federal Trade Commission is requiring a major marketer of dietary supplements to pay $5.5 million to settle charges that it falsely advertised that its supplements could help consumers lose weight and treat or prevent colds and other illnesses. The $5.5 million will be used for refunds to consumers who purchased Accelis, nanoSLIM, and any Cold MD, Germ MD, and Allergy MD product. These supplements were sold over the Internet and were widely available at retail stores. In addition, the settlement requires the marketer to stop making deceptive health claims about the products. The FTC charged Iovate Health Sciences U.S.A. and two affiliated Canadian companies with deceptively advertising their supplements using television ads, Internet websites, and print ads in national magazines. Using photos of white-coated individuals depicted as medical doctors, Iovate’s ads claimed that dietary supplements Cold MD and Germ MD treat or prevent colds and flu, and that Allergy MD treats or prevents allergies and hay fever, according to the FTC complaint. Some ads also proclaimed that the products’ effectiveness was clinically proven. The FTC complaint alleges that these claims were false and unsubstantiated. The FTC also charged that Iovate falsely advertised that one of the supplements – Allergy MD Rapid-Tabs – was homeopathic. The Iovate companies also ran ads with deceptive claims that their weight-loss supplements Accelis and nanoSLIM caused weight loss, and were clinically proven to do so, according to the FTC complaint. The ads said consumers could “Lose 32 lbs. FAST” using nanoSLIM, or one to two pounds per week using Accelis. The ads falsely claimed that Accelis was scientifically proven to increase the body’s metabolism, and featured testimonials from users claiming they had lost significant amounts of weight, according to the FTC. The settlement bars the Iovate companies from: * claiming that any drug or dietary supplement they advertise or sell is effective for diagnosing, curing, mitigating, treating, or preventing any disease unless the claim is approved by the Food and Drug Administration; * claiming that Allergy MD Rapid-Tabs is homeopathic unless the claim is truthful, and unless the product is recognized under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as homeopathic; * representing that their products cause weight loss or rapid weight loss unless the claims are truthful and backed by at least two adequate and well-controlled human clinical studies; * claiming that their products provide any other health-related benefit unless the claim is supported by competent and reliable scientific evidence; and * misrepresenting the results of any test or study. Although FDA approval of health-related claims generally is not required for compliance with the FTC Act, in this case, the FTC determined that requiring FDA pre-approval before the defendants make disease claims for dietary supplements and drugs will provide clearer guidance that will facilitate the defendants’ compliance with the FTC order and make the order easier to enforce. The complaint against Iovate Health Sciences USA also names its Canadian parent company, Iovate Health Science Group, Inc. (now known as Kerr Investment Holding Corp.), and a Canadian subsidiary of that company, Iovate Health Sciences, Inc., as defendants in this case. The Commission vote to authorize the staff to file the complaint and stipulated final order was 5-0. The FTC will file its complaint and stipulated final order in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York. Original Source: FTC |
| published date: 07-15-2010 |
NIH-ODS Publishes Dietary Supplement Ingredient ResourceThe Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), a division of the National Institutes of Health (NIH; Bethesda, MD), recently announced the publication of its Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements, 2nd Edition. This new edition contains new chapters on several botanicals, including aloe vera, bilberry, bitter orange, black cohosh, kava, and saw palmetto. American Herbal Products Association chief science officer Steven Dentali, PhD, and COO Devon Powell contributed as co-authors of the aloe vera chapter.Peer reviewed by experts, chapters include information such as ingredient reviews, including where applicable the latest data, its chemistry and functions, pre-clinical and clinical literature, regulatory status and references to relevant literature. “AHPA is proud to have contributed to this project,” said Dr. Dentali. “Having clear and consistent information on botanicals in an authoritative publication such as this will greatly benefit the industry.” The title is available now from Informa Healthcare Books, with a 15% discount being offered to AHPA members. To take advantage of the discounted rate, please use the order form located here. Original Source: American Herbal Products Association |
| published date: 07-15-2010 |
InterHealth and IFP Partner on Beverage Concepts for Joint HealthInnovative Food Processors (IFP; Faribault, MN) and InterHealth Nutraceuticals Inc. (Benicia, CA) announce a joint collaboration to co-develop and co-market a series of powdered beverage products to customers. The first product concept to be introduced under the collaboration is a joint health formulation called Triple Berry Tempo. This new powder mix, which is delivered in easy to use, single serve stick packets, highlights UC-II®, a joint health ingredient by InterHealth, and will be shown at IFT2010 this July.Triple Berry Tempo water beverage mix is part of an ongoing initiative between IFP and InterHealth to research, develop, and manufacture forward-looking finished beverage product concepts for the dynamic, functional-powdered beverage consumer market. These “ready-to-commercialize” concepts showcase innovative ingredients as well as processing and packaging technology to generate targeted ideas and jumpstart new product development initiatives within the beverage industry. With this approach, IFP and InterHealth are able to pool resources to create a more technologically advanced and healthful product. “We’re interested in aligning ourselves with our clients’ strategic initiatives,” explained Peter Holocher, New Business Development Director for IFP, “Our goal is to help identify unmet needs early in the process and then to search for relevant ingredients and application solutions that deliver a well-positioned product that is timely and on the mark.” The InterHealth/IFP collaboration is meant to create a complete turnkey process for new functional powder beverage products. InterHealth has a 20-year history of providing research-based, patented, safe, and innovative ingredients that are clinically proven to be beneficial to the consumer’s health and superior to current alternatives in the market. IFP picks up the process with leading-edge functional powder product development and formulation, processing, and manufacturing of powder products, including marketing and versatile packaging solutions. “Our ingredients have had long term success in products such as Fuze by Coca Cola Company and SoBe Lean by Pepsi Co,” says Jay Martin, vice president of sales and marketing for InterHealth. “With the publication of our UC-II clinical study showing greater than two times the superiority to glucosamine/chondroitin at only 40 mg per day, we can help open the door for mainstream joint health beverage products.” The partnership between InterHealth and IFP expands the full commercialization process from start to finish, from concept creation through product packaging. The result is a streamlined process for a “faster to market” advantage. “Our powder beverage product design and development team uses innovative agglomeration and encapsulation techniques and is equipped to handle all R&D, quality assurance, regulatory, packaging, and logistics issues,” says Ephi Eyal, CEO and president of IFP. As part of this collaboration, both IFP and InterHealth sales personnel will be presenting the developed products to their customers in joint presentations. Triple Berry Tempo water beverage mix is the result of this open, innovative system. It offers consumers a low-calorie beverage powder that has unique joint health benefits. Triple Berry Tempo is the first powdered, shelf-stable, stick packet beverage with all natural flavors and colors that contains UC-II and is ready for commercialization. “The collaboration between IFP and InterHealth has great synergies and complement each other by providing turnkey products to customers that will reduce their development costs and time to market,” says Paul Dijkstra, CEO of InterHealth. “While this is our first product together, we look forward to working on several more.” Original Source: InterHealth Nutraceuticals |
| published date: 07-14-2010 |
Nestlé Subsidiary to Settle FTC False Advertising ChargesNestlé Subsidiary to Settle FTC False Advertising Charges; Will Drop Deceptive Health Claims for BOOST Kid Essentials Case Involving Drink for Kids Is Agency’s First Challenging Deceptive Probiotic AdvertisingA subsidiary of Nestlé S.A., the world’s largest food and nutrition company, has agreed to drop allegedly deceptive advertising claims about the health benefits of its children’s drink BOOST Kid Essentials, as part of a settlement resolving the Federal Trade Commission’s first case challenging advertising for probiotics. The FTC complaint charges that from fall 2008 to fall 2009, Nestlé HealthCare Nutrition, Inc., made deceptive claims in television, magazine, and print ads that BOOST Kid Essentials prevents upper respiratory tract infections in children, protects against colds and flu by strengthening the immune system, and reduces absences from daycare or school due to illness. BOOST Kid Essentials is a nutritionally complete drink intended for children ages 1 to 13. The probiotics in BOOST Kid Essentials are embedded in a straw that comes with the drink, which was prominently featured in ads for the product. Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria that are found naturally in many foods, and they are known for aiding digestion and fighting harmful bacteria. Original source: FTC website |
| published date: 07-14-2010 |
New Evidence That Dietary Lutein May Fight CataractsAt least 20 million people in the United States have cataracts, clouding that develops in the eye’s lens. In the June issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology, researchers suggest that eating foods rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals may help postpone the development of nuclear cataracts, which forms in the center of the eye’s lens.The study considered foods—but not dietary supplements—rich in vitamins and minerals such as lutein, present in foods such as dark, leafy greens. More than 1800 women ages 50 to 79 years participating in the Carotenoids in Age-Related Eye Disease Study were followed. Participant diets were evaluated using food frequency questionnaires and the 1995 Healthy Eating Index, which reflects the 1990 U.S. dietary guidelines. The occurrence of cataracts was tracked from May, 1, 2001, to January 31, 2004. For more information on FloraGLO, a brand of lutein, click here. |
| published date: 07-14-2010 |
Bilberry, Pycnogenol Supplement Lowers Hypertension in Eye Almost as Effectively as Medicated DropsIn the May issue of Clinical Ophthalmology, researchers comparing the effects of dietary supplement Mirtogenol and medicated Latanoprost eye drops found that the supplement works almost as effectively as the drug to lower intraocular pressure (IOP)—albeit over a longer period of time.The study followed 79 patients with IOP—a condition that occurs when the amount of oxygen and nutrient-rich fluid circulated through the eye exceeds the amount that is drained, over time possibly leading to vision loss and glaucoma. Subjects were separated into three groups—one receiving only the Mirtogenol supplement, one receiving only the Latanoprost eye drops, and one receiving both. IOP and retina blood flow were monitored in monthly intervals over 24 weeks. The combination of Mirtogenol and Latanoprost lowered IOP the most than either treatment when used alone, from 38.0 to 27.3 mmHg (a 10.7 difference) after four weeks, and further from to 24.2 mmHg (from baseline, a total 13.8 difference) after six weeks. (Normal eye pressure ranges from 10 to 21 mmHg.) Alone, Mirtogenol lowered IOP from baseline 38.1 to 29.0 mmHg (a 9.1 difference) after 16 weeks, Latanoprost alone lowered IOP from 37.7 to 27.2 mmHg (a 10.5 difference), but worked more quickly, showing these results after four weeks. Mirtogenol and Latanoprost together also most effectively improved blood flow to the eyes, although they also did so individually as well, furthering normalizing ocular pressure. Mirtogenol is a proprietary supplement containing Indena S.p.A.’s Mirtoselect bilberry (80 mg) and Horphag Research Ltd.’s Pycnogenol (40 mg). Indena says that nearly 10% of U.S. adults suffer from IOP. “Ocular hypertension is not only a major contributor to impaired vision, but can result in serious health challenges including glaucoma, a condition that affects nearly 2.5 million U.S. adults,” said lead study researcher Dr. Robert Steigerwalt, Jr. “Consistent with previous studies, this new research further demonstrates that Mirtogenol is an effective, natural solution for improving blood flow through the central retinal arteries. Click here to view the full study. |
| published date: 07-14-2010 |
Ganeden Biotech Helps Develop Probiotic-Yogurt RaisinsGaneden Biotech Inc. has partnered with Tropical Nut & Fruit Inc. to create yogurt-covered raisins containing Ganeden’s GanedenBC30 Bacillus coagulans strain.In total, the companies plan to develop four functional confectionary products. Currently, the probiotic-yogurt raisins are available for bulk purchase. Samples can be tried at the upcoming IFT Annual Meeting and Food Expo. In June, Ganeden also announced a partnership with Glanbia Nutritionals to integrate GanedenBC30 with Glanbia’s nutrient premixes. A stick pack containing such a premix will be displayed at the IFT show as well. |
| published date: 07-14-2010 |
Low Vitamin D Levels Associated With Cognitive DeclineOlder adults with low levels of vitamin D appear more likely to experience declines in thinking, learning, and memory over a six-year period, according to a report in the July 12 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the Journal of the American Medical Association/Archives journals.An estimated 40% to 100% of older adults in the United States and Europe are deficient in vitamin D, according to background information in the article. This deficiency has been linked to fractures, various chronic diseases and death. Vitamin D may help prevent the degeneration of brain tissue by having a role in formation of nervous tissue, maintaining levels of calcium in the body, or clearing of beta-amyloid, the substance that forms the brain plaques and tangles associated with Alzheimer’s disease. David J. Llewellyn, PhD, of University of Exeter, England, and colleagues assessed blood levels of vitamin D in 858 adults who were age 65 or older when the study began in 1998. Participants completed interviews and medical examinations, and provided blood samples. At the beginning of the study and again after three and six years, they repeated three tests of cognitive function—one assessing overall cognition, one focusing on attention and one that places greater emphasis on executive function, or the ability to plan, organize, and prioritize. Participants who were severely deficient in vitamin D (having blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D of less than 25 nmol/L) were 60% more likely to have substantial cognitive decline in general over the six-year period and 31% more likely to experience declines on the test measuring executive function than those with sufficient vitamin D levels. “The association remained significant after adjustment for a wide range of potential confounders and when analyses were restricted to elderly subjects who were non-demented at baseline,” the authors write. However, no significant association was seen for the test measuring attention. “If future prospective studies and randomized controlled trials confirm that vitamin D deficiency is causally related to cognitive decline, then this would open up important new possibilities for treatment and prevention,” the authors conclude. Original Source: Journal of the American Medical Association. |
| published date: 07-13-2010 |
Ganeden and Glanbia to Feature Immunity Stick Packs at IFTThanks to a new partnership with Glanbia Nutritionals (Monroe, WI), Ganeden Biotech (Cleveland) will be showcasing its patented GanedenBC30 probiotic strain in stick pack form at the upcoming IFT Annual Meeting and Food Expo in Chicago.GanedenBC30 is a patented strain of Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 currently available in several applications, including chewable and gummy form. The probiotic is intended to improve immune function and digestive health. Ganeden’s new partnership with premix specialist Glanbia will open up the probiotic to a wider range of foods, beverages, and nutraceutical applications. The stick packs contain GanedenBC30 and an immune health micronutrient premix from Glanbia. Samples will be available at Ganeden’s IFT booth #3361. |
| published date: 07-12-2010 |
CRN to Host Workshop on Future Dietary Supplement ResearchThe Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) has announced the agenda for its upcoming, annual symposium, The Workshop: A Day of Science.The Workshop, held in conjunction with The Conference, will take place on September 29, 2010 at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa in Austin, Texas. CRN’s The Workshop will focus on future dietary supplement research with four informational sessions including speakers from Health Canada, the National Institutes of Health, and Tufts’ Friedman School of Nutrition, Science, and Policy. Discussion topics will range from nutrigenomics and health biomarkers to nanotechnology research with dietary supplements. Online registration for this event is now open. To register and view the full agenda for this event, click here. |
| published date: 07-12-2010 |
British Study Links Vitamin D Supplementation to Neonatal GrowthMaternal vitamin D supplementation appears to have a link to the growth of newborn children, according to a study published in July’s British Journal of Nutrition.Dutch researchers utilized data from the Amsterdam Born Children and their Development (ABCD) cohort on 3730 women to evaluate any associations between maternal vitamin D and newborn growth rates. Serum vitamin D was measured in women during early pregnancy (median of 13 weeks) and women were grouped into three categories based on vitamin D levels: “deficient” (less than 29.9 nmol/L ), “insufficient” (30 to 40.0 nmol/L), and “adequate” (equal to or greater than 50 nmol/L). Results showed that children born of women with deficient vitamin D levels had lower birth weights and were at a greater risk of being small for gestational age. The study abstract can be viewed at the British Journal of Nutrition. |
| published date: 07-12-2010 |
New European Union Labeling Rules, Organic Logo Now in EffectNew European Union (EU) rules on organic food labeling, including the requirement to display the new EU organic logo, entered into force on July 1, 2010. The so-called “Euro-Leaf” will now be obligatory on pre-packaged organic food products that have been produced in any of the EU Member States and meet the necessary standards. Other private, regional, or national logos will continue to appear alongside the EU label. The logo stays optional for non-packed and imported organic products. In addition to the logo, the new labeling rules also include the compulsory indications of place of farming of the products' ingredients and code number of the body that had been in charge of the controls. Operators have a two-year transition period to comply with these new labeling rules. Another change is the introduction of EU rules for organic aquaculture for the first time.“Our hope is that the new EU logo can develop into a widely recognized symbol of organic food production across the EU, providing consumers with confidence that the goods are produced entirely in-line with the strict EU organic farming regulations,” according to EU Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development Dacian Cioloş. “I hope that these changes will give a boost to the organic farming sector, but also further enhance consumer protection”. The "Euro-leaf” design shows the EU stars in the shape of a leaf against a green background passing two clear messages for consumers: Nature and Europe. The design has been registered by the Commission as a collective trade mark. Designed by German student Dušan Milenković, the logo emerged as the clear winner of an online poll, following a competition aimed at EU art students. The winner and the runners-up in this competition will be honored at an official award ceremony in Brussels on July 19, 2010, organized to coincide with the July 19–20 conference on the future of the Common Agriculture Policy. New Organic Aquaculture Conditions The new rules also cover organic aquaculture production of fish, shellfish, and seaweed. The rules set EU-wide conditions for the aquatic production environment, the separation of organic and non-organic units and specify animal welfare conditions including maximum stocking densities, a measurable indicator for welfare. The rules specify that biodiversity should be respected, and do not allow the use of induced spawning by artificial hormones. Organic feeds should be supplemented by fish feeds derived from sustainably managed fisheries. Special provisions are made for bivalve mollusk production and for seaweed. "Europe-wide rules for organic aquaculture have become a reality," said Fisheries & Maritime Affairs commissioner Maria Damanaki. "They will give consumers a better choice and are a boost for sound and environmentally acceptable production, and a viable alternative to the more traditional intensive approach. The EU is the biggest market in the world for seafood and it is fitting that Europe should play a leading role in establishing comprehensive rules in this domain. Among the priorities for my term are sustainability and social cohesion for the fishing and aquaculture sectors. These new rules for organic aquaculture are a milestone by integrating these priorities into aquaculture". In 2008, an estimated 123 certified organic aquaculture operations were in operation in Europe, out of a total of 225 such farms worldwide. These accounted for almost half world production of 50,000 tonnes in 2008. The top five member states in production terms are the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hungary, Greece and France. The top species is salmon. Further details on the new rules and the EU organic logo can be downloaded on the EU Organic Farming Web site. For the conference on the future of the Common Agriculture Policy, click here. Source: The European Union. |
| published date: 07-12-2010 |
Eight Billion Annual Soft Gels Possible with New Sirio PlantDietary supplement contract manufacturer Sirio Pharma Company, Ltd., has begun operating its new soft-gel plant in China capable of producing eight billion soft-gel capsules per year. The plant’s opening ceremony in Shantou, China, was observed by nearly 300 health food brands, dealers, suppliers, and raw material suppliers from around the world.The company has received GMP certifications for drugs and dietary supplements from China’s State Food and Drug Administration (SFDA), as well as CGMP certification from NPA and BRC certification from SGS. Its offerings also include tablets and gummies. |
| published date: 07-02-2010 |
CRN Workshop Registration Opens; Scientific Experts to Examine Future of Dietary Supplement ResearchThe Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) will host an impressive line-up of top scientific experts who will discuss the future of dietary supplement research at the association’s popular one-day symposium, The Workshop: A Day of Science, in September. Registration for the event is now open.Eileen Kennedy, DSc, dean, Tufts Friedman School of Nutrition, Science, and Policy, will open the symposium with a keynote address titled, Overfed and Undernutrified: A Global Perspective on the Role of Dietary Supplements in Dietary Guidance. Following Kennedy’s presentation, the day will be divided into four consecutive scientific sessions, each focusing on a different aspect of dietary supplement research. The first session features speakers John Milner, PhD, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute; Renger Witkamp, PhD, Wageningen University, The Netherlands; and Ronald Krauss, MD, Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute, and a member of the Institute Of Medicine expert committee on the topic of biomarkers. In the second session, Robin Marles, PhD, Health Canada, will examine how science drives policy, based on case histories from the regulatory body. Following lunch, a panel will offer insights on recent advances in nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics, with guest speakers Robert Superko, MD, Celera; Steven Zeisel, PhD, University of North Carolina; and Ray Rodriguez, PhD, University of California, Davis. The Workshop concludes with a look to the future, with a presentation by George Burdock, PhD, Burdock Group, on the application of nanotechnology research to dietary supplements. The event will take place September 29 at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa, Austin, TX. Online registration for the event is now open. The Workshop will be held in tandem with The Conference, CRN’s annual symposium for the dietary supplement industry, and attendees for both events will mingle at a networking reception the evening of September 29. Visit CRN’s events page for more. |
| published date: 07-02-2010 |
Yakult Prepares for Probiotic Growth with First U.S. FactoryIn the United States, global probiotic beverage leader Yakult U.S.A. (Torrance, CA) only distributes its product in six U.S. states—but major growth could be on the way.This June, Yakult U.S.A. announced plans to build its first U.S. factory in Fountain Valley, California. The factory, expected to be up and running by 2012, will have the capacity to produce as many as 760,000 bottles of Yakult, daily. Yakult contains an estimated 8 billion active cultures of Lactobacillus casei Shirota, the company’s patented probiotic strain intended for improved digestive and immune health. And since beginning U.S. sales three years ago, the company has seen enough consumer interest in its beverage to warrant building a permanent presence in the states. “We are looking forward to the completion of the Yakult California Factory since it will allow us to provide our product to more and more people across the country,” said Yakult U.S.A vice president and COO Teruo Tabuchi. “In the heart of Orange County, Fountain Valley is ideal because it is in close proximity to Los Angeles, which is our biggest market now.” According to Yakult U.S.A, the company experienced a sales growth of 41% in 2009 over the previous year. “Education about probiotics in the U.S. is so important,” said Tabuchi in an interview with Nutritional Outlook. “We introduced Yakult to the market in 1935 in Japan; since then, we have been trying to educate people on the concept of probiotics. We hope to continue to educate Americans on the benefits of not only probiotics, but an overall healthy diet.” Yakult is currently available at major super market chains in the following U.S. states: California, Nevada, Arizona, Texas, Colorado, and New Mexico. For more information, visit Yakult U.S.A. |
| published date: 07-01-2010 |
Pharmachem Donates $1 Million to Vitamin AngelsPharmachem Laboratories Inc. (Kearny, NJ) has pledged $1 million to Vitamin Angels (Santa Barbara, CA), a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing nutrient deficiencies in children across the globe.Over five years, Pharmachem will donate $200,000 annually to the organization. Vitamin Angels’s mission is to connect children under five years old with essential nutrients through two main programs. Reaching across 20 countries, “Operation 20/20” provides children with vitamin A capsules to prevent childhood mortality and blindness. The organization’s other program, “Thrive to Five,” provides multivitamins to children and pregnant and lactating women in 20 countries. The organization reports that it supplies children and women at need with about 100 million doses of micronutrients each year. “Through long-term commitments like Pharmachem’s, we’ll be able to double the number of children reached this year to 20 million,” says Howard Schiffer, founder and president of Vitamin Angels. “Vitamin Angels has been around for 16 years, and last year was the first time we were able to reach over 10 million malnourished children worldwide in one year.” Pharmachem is a developer, supplier, and manufacturer of nutritional ingredients. For more information on Vitamin Angels, click here. |
| published date: 07-01-2010 |
UAS Labs Probiotics Now Kosher-CertifiedUAS Laboratories (Eden Prairie, MN) has announced that its DDS brand probiotics are now kosher-certified by OK Kosher (Brooklyn, NY).The company’s DDS line of probiotics, including DDS Acidophilus and DDS Junior, is available in 37 countries around the world. OK Kosher currently certifies over 300,000 products from over 1500 companies. |
| published date: 07-01-2010 |
Tea Exporters Urged to Increase Markets at HomeTea exporters should focus on developing sales growth at home, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO; Rome), which published a global tea industry report online, this week.FAO states that major tea exporters, such as China, Kenya, Sri Lanka, and India could increase local consumption of tea by better marketing tea for its health benefits to those consumers. “Scope for expansion in consumption in traditional import markets like the United Kingdom and Russia is quite limited," says Kaison Chang, secretary of FAO's Inter-Governmental Group on Tea. "But in the countries where tea is produced, the per capita consumption is much lower and so there is a lot more market potential.” FAO also states that the tea market is vital to the "food security" of developing nations like Sri Lanka, which relies on tea imports for 50% of its agricultural export revenue. The organization adds that FAO's tea growth is mainly expected to come from green tea, with a possibility for green tea exports to grow by 5.5% annually. FAO's statements can be found here. |
| published date: 06-30-2010 |
Jarrow Donates Protein Powder to Feeding America, AIDS ProjectJarrow Formulas has donated more than 10,000 containers of protein powder to Feeding America, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity, and the AIDS Project Los Angeles Necessities of Life Program, designed to improve the lives of people affected by HIV disease.The nutritional supplement brand donated 4826 bottles of Whey Protein and 5046 containers of Muscle Optimeal, a meal-replacement formula. |
| published date: 06-30-2010 |
Companies Strike Deal to Promote Omega-3 ChewablesOcean Nutrition Canada (ONC; Dartmouth, NS) announced today that the company has reached an exclusive agreement with Oxford Nutrascience Group (Oxford; Yarnton, England) to market its omega-3 ingredients in chewable forms.The five-year deal allows Oxford, a company that specializes in soft chews and chewable tablets, to use ONC's Meg-3 brand omega-3 ingredients in Oxford's chewable products throughout the European Union. The two companies have also agreed to cross-sell each other's products through their own respective customer bases. "This is another stride forward into providing customers with healthy chews..." said Oxford chief executive Nigel Theobald. For more information, visit Oxford Nutrascience Group and Ocean Nutrition Canada. |
| published date: 06-29-2010 |
Expansion of FTC Powers Rejected in Wall Street Reform BillA bill aimed at financial reform will not include broadened Federal Trade Commission (FTC) powers. The final version of the bill, the Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 (S. 3217), will not include provisions that would have provided FTC with "additional authority [that] very likely would have led to advertising rules that would have undercut the protections of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act," stated the Natural Products Association (NPA).Industry associations celebrated the news, which broke on Friday, June 25. Many credited their members with helping speak out against the bill’s provision. “Good grassroots and good lobbying are a powerful combination,” said John Gay, NPA’s executive director and CEO. NPA also credited the influence of the more than 28,000 messages that were sent to Capitol Hill through NPA’s website. The Council for Responsible Nutrition also celebrated the news. “The provision, if passed, would have negatively impacted the dietary supplement industry—and many other industries—because it would have given FTC free reign to rewrite its own advertising regulations,” said Mike Greene, vice president, government relations, CRN. “This would have come at the expense of consumers, who would not have been able to obtain complete information about consumer products. He added, “If FTC can provide evidence to Congress as to why it requires additional authority over industry advertising, this issue should be heard through the FTC Reauthorization Act in the Energy and Commerce Committee—not tacked onto the Financial Regulatory Reform legislation.” |
| published date: 06-28-2010 |
Supreme Court Gives Ruling on Genetically Modified Alfalfa, Congress RespondsIn the case of Monsanto v. Geertson Seed Farms—the first-ever Supreme Court case to be held on genetically modified (GM) crops—the Supreme Court has ruled 7 to 1 in favor of lifting an injunction (established previously by a lower court) on planting GM alfalfa. Furthermore, planting and selling of said alfalfa is still prohibited until an environmental review is conducted and considered.The case centers on Monsanto’s (St. Louis) Roundup Ready alfalfa, an alfalfa engineered to be resistant to Roundup pesticide. Idaho-based alfalfa producer Geertson Seed Farms and other concerned parties have argued that Roundup Ready alfalfa could threaten the very nature of organic and conventional alfalfa through cross-pollination. The Center for Food Safety (CFS; Washington, DC) argued that the Supreme Court decision is not necessarily a clear victory for Monsanto. “First, the Court did not overrule the lower court’s ban on the planting and sale of GMO alfalfa and, therefore, the ban remains intact,” wrote Lisa J. Bunin, PhD, organic policy coordinator at CFS. “Moreover, the Court’s decision to set aside the injunction was based, in part, on the fact that a prohibition on GMO planting was already in effect, due to the lower court’s ruling and, therefore, the injunction was duplicative overkill.” The Supreme Court also acknowledged the possible environmental and economic consequences of cross-pollination of GM alfalfa with organic and conventional alfalfa, wrote Bunin. Congress Responds Led by Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR), 56 members of Congress have signed a letter addressed to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, warning of the threat genetically modified alfalfa could have on organic alfalfa and dairy (since alfalfa is eaten by cows). Congress’s open letter to USDA ends as follows: “We request that you fully review the facts, law, and science in this case and take the ‘no action’ alternative to maintain the regulated status for GE alfalfa…” |
| published date: 06-28-2010 |
Happy GMP DayAs of today, June 25, all dietary supplement manufacturers are now required by law to follow good manufacturing practices (GMPs).Since the GMP final rule was first inked in 2007, the entire dietary supplement industry has had 36 months to prepare itself for the changes. Now, even companies with fewer than 20 employees are required to be comply with the regulation. GMPs set into play a list of cautionary guidelines for everything from testing the purity of ingredients and storing them to responding to adverse event reports on products. “This is a historic day for the dietary supplement industry and its consumers,” said Steve Mister, president and CEO of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (Washington, DC). “Full implementation of the GMP regulations that we fought so hard for should put to rest any skepticism that our industry is not regulated. Clearly, there are stringent manufacturing standards that our entire industry must adhere to and we expect that after three years of preparation for implementation, manufacturers are prepared to embrace GMP compliance as another illustration of an industry committed to its consumers.” So far, Summer 2010 means full compliance with GMPs in the dietary supplement industry—but more regulatory fixes could be on the way. Two critical pieces of dietary supplement legislation—the Food Safety Modernization Act and the Dietary Supplement Full Implementation and Enforcement Act—could also see action in the coming months. Stay tuned. |
| published date: 06-25-2010 |
Bimbo Calls for Entries for Pan-American Nutrition AwardGlobal bakery products leader Grupo Bimbo (Bimbo; Mexico City) has announced a call for entries for its Pan-American Nutrition Award 2010.The Pan-American Nutrition Award will recognizes leading research papers produced by both established professionals and young scientists across four regions: the United States of America, Mexico, Central America, and South America. Entries will be considered from more than 20 focuses, including: -Cereals, grains and their role in nutrition. -Nutrition at life stages. -Processes to prevent nutritional deficiencies. -Development of shelf life models. -Development of industrialized food with new functional ingredients. -Food Safety. A total of $56,000 will be available in award money. The deadline for award consideration is October 15, 2010. To learn more, visit the Pan-American Nutrition Award 2010. |
| published date: 06-25-2010 |
Probiotics Improve Dermatitis Symptoms in Kids: StudyA blend of probiotics could improve symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis (AD) in children, according to a new study presented this month at the “Probiotics: From Bench to Market” conference, sponsored by the New York Academy of Sciences.AD is a common skin disease in children, characterized by symptoms of itching and dry skin. About 65% of AD cases are developed during the first year of a patient’s life, and 10-20% of children experience AD symptoms, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Researchers in Ukraine tested the effects of a mixture of L. acidophilus DDS-1 and B. lactis UABLA-12 versus placebo on 90 children with “moderate-to-severe” AD. The Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis Index (SCORAD) tool was used to identify any overall improvements in AD symptoms. After eight weeks, SCORAD scores were lowered by an average of 33.7% in the probiotic group compared to 19.4% in the placebo group. Furthermore, patients in the probiotic group used topical corticosteroid (a dermatitis ointment) at an average of 7.7 g less than the placebo group, throughout the trial. To view the full study abstract, download the collection of probiotic studies, here. |
| published date: 06-24-2010 |
CRN Responds to Large Vitamin B12 StudyA large-scale study on how homocysteine levels are influenced by folic acid and vitamin B12 may have hit the wrong target, according to some industry members.The study published in the June 23/30 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association tested the effects of 2 mg of folic acid and 1 mg of vitamin B12 or placebo on 12,064 subjects in the United Kingdom from 1998 to 2008. Patient homocysteine levels were measured (higher levels are believed to indicate higher cardiac risks) and patients who supplemented with folic acid and vitamin B12 were found to have a mean homocysteine reduction of 28%. However, the study’s authors found that supplementation did not significantly affect vascular outcomes (e.g. vascular deaths, incidences of cancer, nonvascular deaths, etc.) of patients. The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, D.C.) has responded to the study, highlighting concern with the study’s direction. “The concern with this study is that it focused on treating individuals who have already had a heart attack,” says Duffy MacKay, ND, CRN vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs. “It didn’t answer the question of whether a B vitamin—taken over time and in combination with other healthy lifestyle habits—could have helped prevent cardiovascular disease before it occurred at all. We may need to re-evaluate expectations when designing studies on nutrients used to treat serious chronic disease because it is unrealistic to expect a vitamin to undo a lifetime of unhealthy behaviors.” CRN stresses the importance of investigating how homocysteine levels may be a valid biomarker for heart disease in healthy humans. To read the study abstract, click here. |
| published date: 06-23-2010 |
BASF to Purchase CognisChemicals company BASF SE (Ludwigshafen, Germany) has reached an agreement to purchase ingredient supplier Cognis (Monheim, Germany) for an enterprise value transaction of €3.1 billion. The acquisition is subject to clearance by merger-control authorities and is expected to close by November of this year, BASF announced.“With the acquisition of Cognis, we are strengthening our portfolio with cyclically robust and profitable businesses and further expanding our position as the world’s leading chemical company,” said Jurgen Hambrecht, chairman of the board of executive directors for BASF SE. In 2009, Cognis sales were approximately €2.6 billion. Cognis’s portfolio is based on renewable raw materials for the health and nutrition market, as well as ingredients for cosmetics, detergents, and cleaners. Other industries it serves are mining, lubricants, coatings, and agriculture. The firm employs 5500 people and operates in 30 countries. BASF aims to benefit from Cognis’s leading position in the personal care ingredients sector. “We are convinced that there are excellent opportunities through combining the strengths of Cognis and BASF,” said Antonio Trius, Cognis CEO. |
| published date: 06-23-2010 |
Water-Soluble Flower Pollen Extract to Be Shown at IFT Show in JulyGraminex (Saginaw, MI) has introduced G60WS, a clear, water-soluble form of its Graminex flower pollen extract. G60WS is a non-allergenic, non-solvent extract that can be formulated for beverage applications, including ready-to-drink products, dry drink mixes, coffee, and tea. As a functional ingredient, the flower pollen extract is supported by clinical studies for health benefits such as prostate support, an anti-inflammatory effect, women's health, and immune support. G60WS has the same standardized amino acid profile of essential and non-essential amino acids, while offering a wide spectrum of available nutrients, including enzymes and antioxidants.Graminex LLC, Booth #7435 |
| published date: 06-22-2010 |
Omega Advances with ProbioticJumping on the continuing popularity for omega-3, Nordic Naturals (Watsonville, CA) has introduced Omega Probiotic, a new line of omega-3 soft gels enhanced with live probiotics.The company’s anchovy-and-sardine-sourced omega-3s now come with a reported two billion active probiotics in a single serving. Two Omega Probiotic soft gels contain 585 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 405 mg of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), 160 mg of other omega-3s, and 140 mg of Bacillus coagulans. “Unlike most probiotics on the market, this species of probiotic is in spore form,” says the company. “Research shows that this unique spore-form probiotic delivers ten times more live cultures than common probiotic yogurt cultures, delivers those cultures more effectively, and does not require special treatments such as refrigeration.” For more information on Nordic Naturals, visit the company’s Web site. |
| published date: 06-21-2010 |
New Dietary Guidelines Generate Mixed OpinionsThe USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion released a draft report for its 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, last week—a report that will ultimately form the basis for 2010’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Within the report’s language, dietary supplements receive mixed approval.While highlighting the benefits of some dietary supplements “…if needs cannot be met through whole foods,” the authors of the report also concluded that “…a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement does not offer health benefits to healthy Americans.” The latter statement has prompted a public response from the Natural Products Association (Washington, DC). “When less than 25% of the U.S. population eats the recommended serving of five fruits and vegetables daily, how are Americans to get the vitamins and minerals they need?” said NPA executive director and CEO John Gay. “Advice to cut off a reliable and safe nutrition source, such as a daily multivitamin, doesn't seem logical or responsible.” Aside from dietary supplement coverage, much of the report focused on addressing obesity issues and expanding access to nutritional products for Americans. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (Washington, DC) applauded such discussions, stating, “The report wisely recommends that USDA and Health and Human Services develop a national strategy to help people eat better, including ramping up nutrition education, expanding access to fruits and vegetables, and getting industry to provide more healthful products.” |
| published date: 06-21-2010 |
“No Upset Stomachs” is Key Selling Point for Supplement CompanyOrganic Balance (Tulsa, OK), which sells a line of eight nutraceutical supplements, says that “no upset stomachs” is the top benefit reported by its customers.The company claims that its Serum Specific Process technology can prevent stomachaches that often result from supplementing on an empty stomach. “Because of our exclusive Serum Specific Process technology, the Organic Balance product line does not dissolve in the stomach like other vitamins and supplements on the market,” says Dean Crowell, Organic Balance president and COO. “Therefore, our vitamin C for instance, can be taken on an empty stomach without any stomach discomfort, nausea, or digestive track irritation.” For more information on Organic Balance, visit the company’s Web site. |
| published date: 06-21-2010 |
Fortitech to Display Condition-Specific Premix Concepts at IFT ShowFortitech (Schenectady, NY) will highlight a range of condition-specific premix concepts at its booth at IFT. Samples will include a fortified yogurt that aids in bone/joint health that includes such nutrients as vitamin D3, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous; a children's snack mix that boosts cognitive function and includes nutrients like choline, magnesium, and antioxidants; and a variety of stick packs, including a dry powder that can be added to water for a health-promoting beverage. All Fortitech premixes bear the company's Fortitech Quality Standard Seal and as such, meet the firm's high standards. Visit the company at Booth #4659 |
| published date: 06-18-2010 |
Bone Health Market: Meet Beta GlucanGlucan Corporation (Busan, Korea) and Anderson Global Group LLC (AGG; Irvine, CA) have partnered to launch Polycan, a black yeast beta glucan for bone health.Beta glucans are traditionally marketed for immune health support, but early non-clinical trials on the unique strain of A. pullulans resulted in reported benefits to bone and joint health, said an AGG spokesman in an interview with Nutritional Outlook. The unexpected results effectively changed the direction of Polycan research, and the company claims the ingredient is now the first beta-glucan-based material targeting bone health. In a 2009 12-week, randomized, double-blind clinical study on 60 patients, significant increases in osteoblasts (which help build bones) and decreases of osteoclasts (which break down bones) were observed with the beta glucan, according to AGG. The company states that seven other published clinical studies provided positive results. “Although we are pleased with our favorable findings thus far, we carry on a continual research and development program to further validate the potential benefits of Polycan in bone, joint, immune, skin, and metabolic health arenas,” said Hyungrae Cho, president of Glucan Corporation. This patented water-soluble compound can be applied in a number of food and beverage categories, including dairy products, grain products, and processed foods such as chewing gums and ice creams. Polycan will be featured at the Supply Side West show in Las Vegas, this October. For more information on Polycan, visit Anderson Global Group, online. |
| published date: 06-14-2010 |
GLG Life Tech Inks Deal to Market Stevia in MexicoStevia producer GLG Life Tech (GLG; Vancouver) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Grupo Azucarero Mexico (GAM; Las Lomas, Mexico), Mexico’s largest sugar producer, to distribute and market stevia products in Mexico, according to a GLG press release published earlier this month.GAM owns and operates four sugar mills and three processing plants across Mexico, a country where stevia products have already entered the market. PepsiCo introduced its stevia-based Gatorade G2 beverage in Mexico, last year. “We are excited about the possibilities between GLG and GAM, including the opportunity to create new blends and offer the health benefits of stevia to consumers in Mexico,” said GLG CEO and chairman Luke Zhang, PhD. “We look forward to building the Mexican market together, and to forming a productive long-term relationship between our two companies.” For more information about GLG Life Tech, click here. |
| published date: 06-14-2010 |
First Water-Soluble Astaxanthin LaunchedAstaxanthin producer Fuji Health Science Inc. (Burlington, NJ) has introduced its first water-soluble astaxanthin, AstaReal Clear 75.Astaxanthin is a carotenoid found in microalgae—in this case, the freshwater microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis. Astaxanthin is currently being investigated for benefits to eye health (by reducing common eye fatigue) and skin health (i.a. improving skin hydration and skin elasticity). Having received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status earlier this year, AstaReal’s progression into a clear, water-soluble format now has the ingredient positioned for entry into the functional beverage market. AstaReal is cultivated in closed systems in Hawaii and Sweden, and is approved for use as a nutritional supplement in the United States, Japan, Europe, and other global markets. AstaReal Clear 75 will be featured at the IFT Meeting and Food Expo in Chicago, this July. For more information on AstaReal astaxanthin, click here. |
| published date: 06-14-2010 |
Ireland Invests in Milk ResearchFood For Health Ireland (FHI; Cork, Ireland) announced, last week, that it has begun utilizing metabolomics in its research of milk metabolites.Based at University College Dublin, FHI is a government agency that aligns scientific and commercial dairy interests to explore the health potential of “commercially viable bioactives in milk.” “Metabolomics allows us to examine how milk compounds can alter [metabolism],” said Lorraine Brennan, PhD, project leader for FHI at University College Dublin. “Through the precise, multivariate analysis of the metabolite environment, we can achieve a broader understanding of the exact processes taking place following treatment with milk fractions. Additionally, it enables us to link milk-derived bioactives into metabolic pathways, substantiating future health claims with essential physiological data.” The FHI project currently works with four Irish dairy companies: Carbery (Cork), Dairygold (Cork), Glanbia (Kilkenny), and the Kerry Group (Tralee). For more information, visit Food For Health Ireland. |
| published date: 06-14-2010 |
Update from EFSA June Stakeholder MeetingEver since the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA; Parma, Italy) published its second batch of general health claims in February, much of the industry had been waiting for last week’s stakeholders meeting, where EFSA intended to clarify its procedures and offer advice on claims substantiation.In the agency’s attempt to increase dialogue with industry, EFSA announced that it will begin offering online consultations and technical workshops “to provide additional guidance to applicants in selected areas, such as gut and immune function, antioxidants, satiety, and mental function.” A workshop on gut and immune claims was announced to take place before the end of the year. The meeting, which included experts from EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergies, included discourse on how the panel assesses claims substantiation, what makes data and studies considered “pertinent,” and what physiological factors, good and bad, are considered for disease reduction claims. To read EFSA’s full press release on the meeting, click here. |
| published date: 06-07-2010 |
NIH-Funded Workshop to be Held on Analytical Testing Methods for Dietary SupplementsTo assist the dietary supplement industry with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) procedures, Blaze Science Industries (Lawndale, CA) and Tampa Bay Analytical Research Laboratories (Largo, FL) will be offering a one-day workshop in July in St. Pete Beach, Florida, according to Verdure Sciences (Noblesville, IN), a sponsor of the event.The course will be held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the American Society of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemical Society of North America. The course has been funded by the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institute of Health (Bethesda, MD) and is open to anyone involved in quality control and quality assurance of dietary supplements. For more information, click here. |
| published date: 06-07-2010 |
Life’sDHA Now in Quiznos Salad and Sandwich DressingsLife’sDHA, a brand of vegetarian, algal DHA is now being incorporated into salad dressings and sandwich toppings at Quiznos Sub Shop (Denver). A total of 16 sauces and dressings will now be fortified with Life’sDHA at Quiznos, according to Martek Biosciences (Columbia, MD), the manufacturer of Life’sDHA."We are pleased to be working with Quiznos, a national chain with nearly 4,000 stores, to offer consumers healthier options with a variety of toppings and dressings enriched with Life'sDHA," said Joe Buron, vice president of sales and marketing for Martek. "This product launch is a significant milestone as we seek to further expand our presence in all categories of the U.S. food and beverage industry, including restaurants and foodservice." Life’sDHA is currently available in a number of applications, including dietary supplements, infant formulas, foods, and beverages. For more information about Life’sDHA, click here. |
| published date: 06-07-2010 |
EFSA Publishes Negative Opinion on Beta-Glucans; Science Was “Inappropriate”The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA; Parma, Italy) published its negative opinion on a health-claims application for beta-glucans on May 26. But the details of Leiber GmbH’s (Bramsche, Germany) Article 13.5 application may be of greater concern.Leiber GmbH submitted an application for its Yestimun brand beta-D-glucans from brewer’s yeast. The claimed effect was that the ingredient can reduce the risk of common cold infections “by strengthening the body’s natural defenses and improving the body’s immune defense against common cold viral infections…” Leiber GmbH provided EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergies (NDA) with 17 studies: 10 human studies, five animal studies, and two in vitro studies. But the NDA panel concluded that many of these could not be considered “pertinent,” including four human studies involving beta-glucan administration through intravenous injection (a method deemed “inappropriate” for the claimed effect). In fact, this administration method was further deemed inappropriate because the beta-glucan injected, in at least one of those studies, was a pharmaceutical drug candidate. The beta-glucan in question is Imprime PGG, a pharmaceutical-grade beta-glucan from Biothera (Eagan, MN). According to Biothera’s website, Imprime PGG is a Phase II cancer drug candidate that triggers immune cells to kill cancer cells in the body. “Leiber borrowed and inappropriately used research that was conducted with our products,” said Biothera vice president of communications David Walsh in an interview with Nutritional Outlook. Walsh notes that in addition to using Imprime PGG, the applicant borrowed a study conducted for Biothera on Wellmune WGP, a food-grade beta-glucan that was misidentified in the application as being derived from brewer’s yeast. (Wellmune WGP is a proprietary strain of baker’s yeast.) “Many don’t realize that even among yeast beta-glucans, subtle differences in molecular characteristics can have an impact on bioactivity," said Walsh. “What this illustrates is that you need to have your own research, and if you’re borrowing research or using it inappropriately, that’s a reflection on the safety, efficacy, and claims possibilities for the entire class of ingredient.” Biothera’s Wellmune WGP, a baker’s yeast beta-glucan, has applied for Novel Food status in the European Union and is allowed to use an immune health claim on packaging in Canada. |
| published date: 06-07-2010 |
Pew Environmental Group Disputes Aker Biomarine’s New Sustainability CertificationKrill oil manufacturer Aker Biomarine (Oslo, Norway) announced last week that it has been granted permission to use the Marine Stewardship Council’s (MSC; London) sustainability label for the company’s Antarctic krill. Aker Biomarine produces krill oil and ingredients under the brands Superba and Qrill, and the MSC “ecolabel” implies that the company only uses sustainable fisheries.But a leading environmental organization, The Pew Environmental Group (PEG; Philadelphia), says “the certification gives the false impression that the entire fishery for Antarctic krill is sustainable when, in reality, it is not.” PEG contends that a scientific consensus has not yet been reached to confirm the safety of Antarctic krill and its predators’ population levels as influenced by krill fishing. "In its decision, the MSC ignored irrefutable evidence put forward by numerous stakeholders, including prominent Antarctic scientists, climate change and forage fishery experts, and environmental groups," Gerald Leape, director of Pew's Antarctic Krill Conservation Project (AKCP). In an official press release, PEG also stated that “the overlap between the fishery and krill predators is increasingly well-documented.” Meanwhile, Aker BioMarine points to its close relationships with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Norway for proof of its sustainability efforts. "We believe that it is important to work with the most proactive players to ensure the continued sustainability of this fishery," said Nina Jensen, conservation director for WWF Norway, in an Aker Biomarine press release. "Aker BioMarine is the only operator in the krill fishery doing all the right things: 100% observer coverage, vessel-monitoring system, real-time reporting procedures, science and research contributions by allowing on board scientists at no cost, and economic participation in establishing a science fund." |
| published date: 05-28-2010 |
Wellington Foods Now GMP-CertifiedDietary supplement manufacturer Wellington Foods Inc. (Long Beach, CA) is pleased to announce that it has received Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification from the Natural Products Association (NPA; Washington, DC). In the independent, third-party audit, NPA gave the company an “A” compliance rating in its certification for the dietary supplement industry.The company formulates, manufactures, and packages dietary supplements in both liquid and power forms. For more information on the company, click here. For more details on NPA’s GMP certification program, click here. |
| published date: 05-28-2010 |
Senate Hearing Highlights Dietary Supplement Investigation and New BillThe Senate’s Special Committee on Aging held a hearing on Wednesday, May 26, to discuss the safety of dietary supplements. The hearing, entitled “Dietary Supplements: What Seniors Need to Know,” highlighted concerns with current enforcement of dietary supplement safety standards as evidenced in part by a recent investigation conducted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO, which conducts Congressional investigations), which found evidence of unlawful advertising practices and contamination of dietary supplements on the market.Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), a member of the Special Committee on Aging, used the hearing as a platform for introducing S.3414, the Dietary Supplement Full Implementation and Enforcement Act of 2010 (DSFIE), which he has co-introduced with Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA). “To ensure that [current laws on dietary supplements] are properly enforced…This legislation requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (H.H.S.) to submit annual reports to Congress regarding H.H.S. activities on dietary supplements,” said Hatch. “It directs the FDA to issue its New Dietary Ingredient (NDI) guidance as recommended by the GAO within 180 days, and requires the FDA to notify the Drug Enforcement Agency if it finds that an NDI being evaluated contains an anabolic steroid…” Harkin mentioned that the bill also calls for at least $20 million for FDA to enforce existing dietary supplement regulation (namely, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act). The bill is currently supported by the players associations of Major League Baseball, the National Football League, and various dietary supplement trade organizations. The hearing included testimony from several parties: ConsumerLab, the Consumers Union, FDA, the GAO’s Forensic Audits and Special Investigations division, and the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC). In his testimony, CRN president and CEO Steve Mister announced the organization’s formal support of Hatch’s bill, saying that the bill “…will go a long way toward providing adequate funding and accountability for FDA.” The Senate Special Committee on Aging is chaired by Herb Kohl (D-WI). The full hearing can be streamed at the Senate Special Committee on Aging website. |
| published date: 05-27-2010 |
New Bill Demands FDA Enforce DSHEAA new bill introduced today demands that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA; Rockville, MD) implement the regulatory powers provided by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) established in 1994. Called S.3414, the Dietary Supplement Full Implementation and Enforcement Act of 2010, the new bill has been introduced by Senators Orrin Hatch (R-UT), the original author of DSHEA, and Tom Harkin (D-IA). The bill also requires that FDA receive a minimum of $20 million in funding to aid enforcement.According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC), the bill calls on FDA to perform such enforcement actions as increasing inspections of dietary supplement facilities to ensure that they are compliant with FDA’s current good manufacturing practices (GMP) and implementing an annual registration process for supplement manufacturers, packers, and distributors. A crucial part of the bill also asks FDA to finally establish clear guidelines for new dietary ingredients (NDIs). Without a process in place for companies to submit NDI notifications, and without a list of “grandfathered” ingredients allowed in dietary supplements, FDA has been hampered in its ability to enforce against dietary supplements that illegally contain unapproved substances. Also along these lines, the bill asks that FDA and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) communicate better to prevent anabolic steroids from being illegally marketed in dietary supplements. As proof of increased enforcement action, the bill also requires FDA to annually report to Congress the number of dietary supplement manufacturers that have been inspected for GMPs, the number of NDI notifications it reviewed, and a summary of all enforcement actions taken in relation to dietary supplements, reported the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA; Silver Spring, MD). “Building a collection of facts and figures related to FDA’s enforcement of DSHEA is key to setting the record straight when it comes to the regulation of this class of goods,” says Michael McGuffin, AHPA’s president. The dietary supplements industry has often had to defend itself against the misconception that dietary supplements aren’t regulated. Industry representatives have pointed out that DSHEA’s establishment in 1994 gave FDA powers to regulate the industry and police illegal activity, but that FDA has not fully utilized its powers as provided by DSHEA. FDA itself has in the past conceded that it has been unable to enact all of DSHEA’s provisions. At CRN’s annual meeting last fall, FDA principal deputy commissioner Joshua Sharfstein, MD, told industry members, “Some of the tools have been available for a while, but FDA can’t get to [them] due to lack of resources.” Industry representatives, including CRN and AHPA, have voiced strong support for the new bill. “Many of the challenges our industry continues to face can be attributed to the lack of enforcement of these basic tenets of DSHEA,” said CRN president and CEO Steve Mister. “CRN and its member companies have long advocated for more resources to help FDA better enforce industry regulation, and this bill is a step in the right direction to making that happen.” The new bill was proposed a few months after Senator John McCain (R-AZ) in March withdrew support for the Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010 that he proposed in February. That bill, which was largely unsupported by the dietary supplements industry, did include similar provisions such as requiring FDA to finalize guidance on NDIs, but it also included some provisions that many industry members called too severe, such as requiring the reporting of all adverse events related to supplements, including minor events. Senator Hatch was largely credited with convincing Senator McCain to drop his bill. “The intent of the original McCain bill is to give the FDA the authority to remove harmful dietary supplement products from the market, such as anabolic steroids,” said Hatch in an industry conference call on March 5. “The simple fact is that the small percentage of unscrupulous manufacturers that the McCain bill targets are breaking existing laws.” Those in the industry believe that the newly proposed bill is the answer to getting DSHEA’s laws enforced. To read the full bill, click here. |
| published date: 05-25-2010 |
Will Financial Reform Bill Expand FTC Power over Supplements?For the last several months, the Financial Services Reform Bill has been the talk of Congress, with the Senate passing its own version of the bill, last week.Nutritional Outlook recently reported on a controversial provision that, if added to the final bill, would provide the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) with expanded powers to regulate industry. Trade associations like the Natural Products Association (NPA; Washington, DC) have been speaking out against the provision, arguing that it burdens food and dietary supplement industries that “had nothing to do with the financial crisis.” To NPA’s favor, the Senate’s version of the financial reform bill excluded this provision, but the association says it still remains in the version pending in the House. NPA is calling on industry members to tell their members of Congress to oppose the FTC amendment. “NPA members responded strongly to the first call to urge senators to oppose any FTC powers amendment while they were considering the legislation, and I think [industry members] can take some credit for keeping the provision off the Senate bill,” said John Gay, CEO and executive director of NPA. “Now we need to carry that message to both the House and Senate as they seek to iron out the differences between their versions of the legislation.” To send a message to your congress members, click here. |
| published date: 05-24-2010 |
HealthCo’s Stevia Now GRAS-ApprovedHealthCo (Bloomingdale, IL), a division of NOW Health Group, has received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for its Stevia FSE ingredient.The company contends that its Stevia ingredient is different from most other Stevia ingredients because it is enzymatically treated to remove stevia’s usual bitter aftertaste. “Stevia FSE utilizes the whole Stevia leaf and is not an isolated fraction, like Reb A, which is said to require additional added substances to mask the bitter aftertaste,” said the company in a recent press release. “No flavorings or masking agents are used in Stevia FSE because none are needed.” Stevia FSE, which the company says is 60 to 100 times sweeter than sucrose, is now GRAS-approved for many food and beverage categories, including baked goods, milk products, soft candy, non-alcoholic beverages, and chewing gum. For more information, visit www.healthco-intl.com. |
| published date: 05-24-2010 |
Phytosterols Receive Canadian Novel Food StatusHealth Canada has approved phytosterols (or plant sterols) and sterol esters for Novel Food use, according to Cognis Nutrition & Health (Cincinnati).Phytosterols, found naturally in plants, can compete with, and therefore lower, dietary cholesterol in the body. Health Canada’s announcement comes with added benefits for the phyosterol market. Several health statements can now be made with phytosterol-enriched foods in Canada, as long as nutrition criteria is met, including “Plant sterols help reduce [or help lower] cholesterol,” and “High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease.” Canada’s approved daily serving is reportedly set at up to 3 g of free sterols. Cognis submitted the original Canadian application for Novel Food status back in July 2009. The company, which markets phytosterols under the Heart Choice brand in North America (and as Vegapure in other parts of the globe), claims that its phytosterols have been clinically proven to lower cholesterol by as much as 15%. In addition to the new Canadian distinction, Heart Choice phytosterols hold an FDA-approved health claim. They can be applied to several food categories, including spreads, mayonnaise, margarine, salad dressing, yogurt, and fruit and vegetable juice. The company reports that Canadian-based food manufacturers and retailers are already in final development stages to launch new products with Heart Choice phytosterols. |
| published date: 05-24-2010 |
Institute of Medicine Recommends FDA Revisit Biomarker StandardsThe Institute of Medicine (IOM; Washington, DC) has released a report urging FDA to standardize its methods for validating biomarkers used in scientific study. IOM says that right now, FDA is hampered in its ability to evaluate proposed health claims because it lacks a process for validating biomarkers.The report, “Evaluation of Biomarkers and Surrogate Endpoints in Chronic Disease,” indicates that while biomarkers do not always fully predict health outcomes, they are important to health care practitioners, regulators, and consumers in gathering information about available foods, supplements, drugs, and medical devices. In its report, the IOM calls for FDA to make several changes to its regulatory framework surrounding biomarkers, including creating an expert panel to assess the use of biomarkers and biomarker tests. Another proposed change is to establish a large-scale data collection service to facilitate the sharing of scientific data and a better understanding of how biomarkers are being used in clinical studies. Many in the dietary supplements industry have indicated their support for measures to encourage FDA to establish more validated biomarkers. Several also took issue with a large portion of IOM's report, however, which instead of focusing on the issue of biomarkers turned to discussing standards of evidence in evaluating health claims for foods, supplements, and drugs. “The IOM committee seems to have veered off course of their target,” reads a press release from the the Natural Products Association (Washington, DC), last week. “While the work on the biomarkers is of value, it seems unwise for [the IOM] to present such broad statements regarding regulatory authority of the FDA on food claims, which is neither their expertise nor within [the IOM’s] scope…” To read a detailed briefing of the report from the Institute of Medicine, click here. |
| published date: 05-17-2010 |
Maternal Vitamin A Supplementation Improves Lung Function in ChildrenVitamin A may have a positive effect on adolescent lung function, according to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine—but only if a mother takes it.From 1994 to 1997, pregnant Nepalese women participated in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, cluster-randomized trial in which they supplemented with vitamin A, beta-carotene, or placebo. Years later, from October 2006 to March 2008, 1371 children who were descended of those mothers performed spirometry breathing tests. Forced vital capacity is the maximum amount a person can breathe in one breath, and children whose mothers had received vitamin A during their pregnancy had significantly better scores in this area, at a mean average of 46 milliliters higher. Children whose mothers supplemented with beta-carotene produced results similar to placebo. To read the study abstract, click here. |
| published date: 05-17-2010 |
Krill and Phosphatidylserine Join ForcesAker Biomarine (Oslo, Norway) and Lipogen (Haifa, Israel), respective producers of krill oil and phosphatidylserine (PS), announced the development of an innovative phospholipids ingredient, yesterday.The new ingredient will combine Superba krill oil and Lipogen PS, and is intended for the brain health market. “PS acts synergistically with omega-3 fatty acids to increase cognitive abilities,” says Lipogen CEO Davis Rutenberg, noting memory support, mood, concentration, and other cognitive benefits from PS and krill. |
| published date: 05-17-2010 |
Vitamins: A “Recession-Proof” IndustryIn its latest report on the U.S. vitamins and dietary supplements market, analyst Euromonitor International (www.euromonitor.com) dubbed the industry recession-proof during 2008 and 2009.“While most other consumer product sectors experienced declines or slower sales growth, U.S. vitamins and dietary supplements actually exhibited its strongest growth rates since 2003,” Euromonitor reported. “Sales of vitamins and dietary supplements actually increased in the second half of 2008, and continued to grow in the high single digits, just as the U.S. recession was gaining steam.” Euromonitor attributed the gains to several factors: an aging population that uses more vitamins (31% of U.S. consumers were ages 50 or older in 2009, compared to 28% in 2003), a preventive approach to healthcare in the face of increasing healthcare costs and shrinking healthcare coverage, and finally, growing acceptance of the beneficial role of vitamins by the health practitioner sector. Single Vitamins, Multivitamins Stay Strong Not counting the growing functional-foods sector, the vitamin industry alone grew 7% in 2009 (following an already-strong 9% hike in 2008). Euromonitor said that this strong growth was driven by the “booming” single-vitamin market. Vitamin D was an especially strong performer, says Euromonitor, as scientific studies and the media continue to point out the high vitamin D deficiency in this country and others. As a result, even consumers who take a multivitamin may be looking to supplement with even more vitamin D. “For example,” said Euromonitor, “a Centrum Silver multivitamin contains 400 mg of vitamin D, while recent research suggests that 1000 mg is required as a daily minimum.” Multivitamins also continue to perform strongly. In fact, this category makes up just over 50% of all vitamin sales, Euromonitor says. Consumers tend to see multivitamins as a “one-stop-shop” solution. However, Euromonitor reports that to promote growth in the mature multivitamin market, “players diversified away from one-size-fits-all formulations to offer more specialized products, such as age-, gender-, condition-, and race-specific varieties.” Also, it adds, “Claims of superior absorption rates are an important point of differentiation in this mature product area. Some direct-selling players and high-end brands sold through healthfood shops emphasize this point in order to justify their high price point.” |
| published date: 05-12-2010 |
Report Names Top-Selling Supplements in 2009Sales of herbal dietary supplements in the United States jumped nearly 5% in 2009, according to a market report published last Friday in HerbalGram, the quarterly journal of the American Botanical Council (ABC; Austin, TX).ABC’s report, which compiled market research data from Information Resources Inc. (IRI; Chicago), Nutrition Business Journal, and SPINS (Schaumburg, IL), estimates that over $5 billion was made in herbal supplements sales in 2009. The report also highlights top-selling herbal dietary supplements and botanical supplements from 2009. At mainstream markets (drugstores, grocery markets, etc.), the top spot in herbal dietary supplements went to cranberry, which garnered $31 million in sales, up 23% from 2008. At natural and health food stores, the top-selling botanical was aloe vera, which made over $21 million, up 6% from 2008. A major change in sales came from food, drug, and other mass market retailers, where IRI reported overall sales increased by more than 14%. “The 14% growth spurt is the largest sales increase in the mainstream market in recent memory,” said Mark Blumenthal, ABC founder and executive director, and editor of HerbalGram. To see other top-selling ingredients from 2009, read the full report here. |
| published date: 05-10-2010 |
European Court Rules on Vitamins and Minerals; CRN RespondsA European Commission (EC) court has published its review of a French court case concerning whether or not EC member states can set their own limits on maximum intake levels for vitamins and minerals. The original French proceedings involved food supplement manufacturers, including Solgar Vitamins (Ferrières-en-Brie, France) against French Ministries, including the Ministry for Agriculture and Fisheries.In its response, the EC court declared that member states could enforce and develop their own maximums for food supplements in the absence of values established by the greater EC. Concerning the sensitivity of population subgroups, such as children, the EC court declared that maximums should not be set low enough to protect all population groups, but that labeling guidance should be used to instruct proper use for all concerned populations. The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) voiced support for portions of the EC court’s response, while also expressing concerns in several areas. One concern is that Member States might set very low maximums for substances with no known adverse effects, where no official risk assessment values have been placed. “The Court, of course, reacted to the Food Supplements Directive as it was written in 2002, and did not consider that a procedure for eradicating the problem of the absence of a UL (tolerate upper level intake) was published in the 2006 FAO/WHO report on nutrient risk assessment,” said John Hathcock, PhD, CRN senior vice president of scientific and international affairs. Hathcock mentions vitamin B-12 as an example where risk assessment has been independently applied. He notes that France has set a maximum of 3 micrograms for safe use (and any higher intake is regulated as a drug). |
| published date: 05-10-2010 |
Overfishing of Menhaden Is Not Occurring, Says Industry ReportOmega Protein Corporation (Houston) has announced that the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Washington, DC) has published its 2010 Stock Assessment Overview of menhaden fish. Menhaden is a common source for omega-3 fish oil, and the species is often argued as being overfished in the United States.But the Commission’s review, which is comprised of 2008 data from fishery-dependent and fishery-independent research services, concludes that menhaden were not overfished in 2008. Among other positive outcomes, the reproduction capacity (fecundity) of female menhaden was found to be above the 2008 threshold and near the year’s target range. “This means that the spawning stock in 2008 appears to be adequate to produce the target number of eggs,” the report states. “The findings of this stock assessment validate that Omega Protein and other menhaden fishermen have been fishing in a manner that does not negatively impact the sustainability of the menhaden fishery,” said Omega Protein senior fisheries biologist Ron Lukens. Omega Protein, the world’s largest producer of omega-3 fish oil, uses menhaden in many of its protein and fish oil products. To read the full report, click here. |
| published date: 05-10-2010 |
Large Study: DHA Boosts Brain Health in ElderlyAlzheimer’s & Dementia, the official journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, has published the results of the first large-scale study to be conducted exclusively on docasahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid.The Memory Improvement with Docasahexaenoic Acid Study (MIDAS) evaluated the effects of algal DHA on elderly individuals with “age-related cognitive decline,” and found that those supplementing with DHA showed a benefit “roughly equivalent to having the learning and memory skills of someone three years younger.” For six months, 485 individuals, ages 55 and older, were given 900 mg of algal DHA or placebo. All patients were considered to have age-related cognitive decline, characterized by mild memory complaints such as trouble remembering names or appointments. Visual memory and new learning tests were provided using a tool known as the CANTAB PAL (Paired Associate Learning), and DHA subjects demonstrated “almost double the reduction in errors” compared to placebo subjects. "Up to one-third of the more than 75 million baby boomers in the U.S. will experience a gradual decline in cognitive function as they age," said Dr. Edward B. Nelson, co-author of the study. "MIDAS is significant because it shows for the first time that taking 900 mg of algal DHA daily may have a very meaningful and important impact on cognitive function in the aging population." The MIDAS study was funded by Martek Biosciences (Columbia, MD), the supplier of life’sDHA brand DHA. To read the study abstract, click here. |
| published date: 05-03-2010 |
PureCircle Partners with Michigan State University on Stevia ResearchStevia supplier PureCircle (Oak Brook, IL) has announced a new partnership with Michigan State University’s department of horticulture to engage in research and breeding of the natural sweetener.“The goal of the research is to accelerate the creation of proprietary varieties of stevia that contain dramatically higher levels of sweetness in the leaf, as well as other improved agricultural properties,” says PureCircle’s press release. |
| published date: 05-03-2010 |
Noni Receives Novel Food Approval, AgainTahitian Noni International (Provo, UT) has petitioned for and received its third Novel Food approval for the noni fruit from the European Commission on Food Safety.The company’s noni puree and concentrates are now approved for sale across the European Union. Previously, the company gained approval for its noni juice and leaves to be used in preparation of other products, such as tea. Tahitian Noni Bioactive Beverages were launched in the United States this February, and a gradual release of the products is expected to hit Europe, beginning in May. The company markets noni for a variety of proposed benefits, including antioxidant properties, skin health, and digestion support. |
| published date: 05-03-2010 |
Industries Contend Upcoming Financial Reform BillAs the U.S. Senate gears up for a new financial reform bill, the Restoring American Financial Stability Act, trade associations and business groups, including representatives of the food and supplements industries, are calling for major changes before further negotiations.The Natural Products Association (NPA; Washington, DC), together with more than 40 other trade and business groups, sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), urging the leaders to oppose provisions in the current bill that would expand authority to the Federal Trade Commission. The letter states that the provisions would provide FTC with increased power, allowing the agency to act “as an unelected legislature, governing industries and sectors that had nothing to do with the financial crisis.” The letter adds that concern around these provisions has been overshadowed by the larger debate surrounding the creation of a Consumer Financial Protection Agency. “We are asking our members to take action on this important issue by contacting their senators and urging them to focus on strengthening the stability of our economy, not regulating industries that had nothing to do with the financial crisis,” says John Gay, CEO and executive director of NPA. “At a time when businesses are struggling to both survive and create new jobs, adding burdensome new regulations and ceding more authority over natural products businesses to the FTC is just what the economy does not need.” Signatories of the letter range from the Food Marketing Institute and the Snack Food Association to the Consumer Electronics Association and the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. To read NPA’s full letter, click here. |
| published date: 04-26-2010 |
Supreme Court to Hear First Case on Genetically Modified CropsTomorrow, the U.S. Supreme Court will take oral arguments in the case of Monsanto v. Geertson Seed Farms, the first-ever Supreme Court case to be heard on genetically modified crops.Geertson Seed Farms, an Idaho-based alfalfa producer, filed a lawsuit in 2006 opposing the USDA’s approval of a pesticide-resistant alfalfa developed by agriculture company Monsanto (St. Louis), known as Roundup Ready Alfalfa (RRA). Geertson Seed Farms contends that Monsanto’s RRA could pollinate in, and thus threaten the organic quality of neighboring, conventional alfalfa farms. Monsanto, however, argues that the risk of cross-pollination with RRA is very small. “Even in the unlikely event that cross-pollination does occur, it will not change the constitution of any existing alfalfa plant,” said Monsanto in a reply brief submitted to the Supreme Court earlier this month. “The risk is only that a cross-pollinated plant will produce seeds that could grow into RRA plants. But those seeds, if unwanted, can be identified through inexpensive testing, and destroyed.” |
| published date: 04-26-2010 |
New CGMP Compliance Manual Available from AHPAIn order to help companies comply with the standards of cGMP documentation, the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA; Silver Spring, MD) has made available a new cGMP compliance tool, Good Documentation Practices: A Guide for the Dietary Supplement Industry.The 68-page manual includes explanations of good documentation principles, step-by-step instructions on company documentation processes, and templates for companies to conduct their own documentation with. While the manual has been made in the context of manufacturing, packaging, and holding of dietary supplements, AHPA says it is also relevant for food and food ingredient services. AHPA states that the new tool will help minimize errors, prevent record falsifications, and facilitate normal procedures involved in the cGMP documentation process. Copies and further information can be obtained from Devon Powell at dpowell@ahpa.org. |
| published date: 04-26-2010 |
U.S. Organic Sales Passed $26 Billion, Says SurveySales of organic products saw steady increases last year, according to findings from the Organic Trade Association’s (OTA; Greenfield, MA) 2010 Organic Industry Survey.OTA’s survey found that sales of U.S. organic products reached $26.6 billion in 2009, a growth of 5.3% from 2008. Of that total, organic food sales accounted for $24.8 billion. The greatest growth in organic food came from fruits and vegetables, which reached $9.5 billion in sales, an 11.4% increase from 2008. Organic supplements brought the greatest growth of non-food sectors, up 12% from 2008 with $634 million in sales. “These findings are indicative that, even in tough times, consumers understand the benefits that organic products offer and will make other cuts before they give up products they value," said Christine Bushway, OTA executive director. OTA and non-OTA members can purchase the 70-page report online or by contacting Stella Sexton at ssexton@ota.com. |
| published date: 04-26-2010 |
FDA Should Mandate Nationwide Salt Reduction, IOM SaysStating that current levels of sodium in foods are “too high to be ‘safe’,” the Institute of Medicine today released a report advising that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) establish mandatory national standards for sodium content in foods.Currently, FDA does not regulate the level of sodium in foods. IOM says that very little of the sodium currently in foods is naturally occurring, but instead, is added. IOM recommends an FDA-mandated nationwide reduction of salt levels. It stresses that reductions should be carried out gradually, “so that the consumer’s taste preferences can be changed over time to the lower amounts of salt in food.” All food manufacturers and restaurants should participate in this effort to “create a level playing field for the food industry.” IOM added, “All segments of the food industry would be carrying out the same reductions, and none would be at a disadvantage.” In response to the IOM report, FDA today stated that it had not yet made a decision whether to regulate sodium content. However, the agency said that it would be reviewing IOM's recommendations. It also added that the Department of Health and Human Services would establish a working group to examine what steps should be taken. Currently, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends a daily salt intake level of no more than 2300 mg, or approximately one teaspoon per day. However, IOM says that average Americans consume almost 50% more than that—more than 3400 mg of sodium per day. IOM estimated that nationwide reductions in sodium intake could prevent more than 100,000 deaths annually. IOM’s report on sodium was created at the request of Congress. In 2008, Congress asked the institute to recommend strategies for reducing sodium intake to levels recommended in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. |
| published date: 04-20-2010 |
Industry Petition Calls for New Approach to EFSA Article 13Following the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) release of its second batch of Article 13 health claims opinions on February 25, companies began sharing concern over EFSA’s batch-by-batch approach. Now, a global petition is making headway.As of today, 382 companies have already signed on to what is being called the “Health Claims Letter,” a petition addressed to European Commission president José Manuel Barroso, which calls for a reconsideration of EFSA’s method of releasing evaluations. “It’s unfair for companies to receive EFSA’s opinion for claims, while other companies keep waiting,” says Marc Roller, scientific director for Naturex (South Hackensack, NJ), a signatory of the Health Claims Letter. “Whether it is a positive or negative opinion, everyone deserves a response at the same time.” Roller says that the process has also created confusion in the marketplace, as nonharmonized claims may coexist with harmonized claims for up to two years. Naturex submitted its own health claims to EFSA, and none of them have yet been evaluated. The Health Claims Letter was created by the European Health Claims Alliance (EHCA), an entity which was formed last month after a meeting of concerned companies across the food and nutrition industries. An EHCA spokesperson told Nutritional Outlook that the group has “one single focus: Article 13 of the Nutrition and Health Claims Regulation.” EHCA is encouraging all industry members concerned with EFSA’s batch-by-batch method to join its cause. |
| published date: 04-19-2010 |
Stevia Receives Positive Safety Opinion from EFSAThe European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for the safe use of stevia as a food sweetener, last week.EFSA’s Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources (ANS) established a safe intake of steviol glycosides at 4 mg per kg of body weight, daily—an amount previously established by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). EFSA’s report adds that this ADI can be exceeded by adults and children if used at maximum levels suggested by the applicants. Toxicological testing indicated that “steviol glycosides are not genotoxic, carcinogenic, nor associated with any reproductive/developmental toxicity,” according to EFSA’s report. Three petitioners, including Cargill (Wayzata, MN), submitted dossiers for stevia, with steviol glycosides specified at no less than 95% stevioside and/or rebaudioside A. "This is a very important milestone in the path of European regulatory approval of steviol glycosides,” said Zanna McFerson, assistant vice president for Cargill Health and Nutrition, the maker of Truvia brand stevia sweetener. “Consumers in Europe will benefit by having more choice as they look to manage sugars and calories in their lives.” In May 2008, Cargill published peer-reviewed safety research of its Truvia brand sweetener in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology. This research was submitted to EFSA as part of stevia’s claims substantiation. To read a summary of EFSA’s decision, click here. |
| published date: 04-19-2010 |
Sustainable Marine SourcingIn association with the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, and the Department of Fisheries Western Australia, Cognis Australia (Tullamarine, Victoria) has announced the opening of a new facility for sustainable production of artemia (brine shrimp).Artemia are a critical food source for fish and prawn aquaculture, and the new project, which has been jointly funded by all three groups, will provide a sustainable source of carotenoid-rich artemia to the aquaculture market, under the trade name Nutremia. Cognis indicates that its new facility, which is a closed production system, will significantly reduce bio-security concerns, such as the threat of natural waterborne pathogens. In other sustainability news, EPAX-AS (Aalesund, Norway) has announced the launch of its new Ecovision website, which intends to better communicate the company’s sustainability, traceability, and accountability efforts in marine oil production. EPAX-AS harvests its fish in Peru with finished ingredient omega-3 manufacturing completed Norway. The full business operation was granted Friends of the Sea certification, last fall. |
| published date: 04-19-2010 |
FDA Stings Bee-Derived Products over Website Drug ClaimsOn April 5, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that federal marshals had seized contract manufacturer Beehive Botanicals’ (Haywood, WI) proprietary line of bee-derived consumer products. FDA said that the products were misbranded as drugs on several websites by claiming to diagnose, cure, and prevent diseases such as asthma, dermatitis, and ulcers.FDA said that on one of the Beehive Botanicals’ websites, the company claimed that products with such bee-derived ingredients as propolis, royal jelly, bee pollen, and honey could aid in the treatment or prevention of cancer, liver or kidney disease, insomnia, bone fractures, and skin disorders, and that the products were “proven to have antibiotic, antiviral, and antifungal properties” and could be “used to prevent and ameliorate a wide variety of medical conditions.” Such claims would classify the products as unapproved new drugs under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Dozens of products were seized on March 31, including creams, capsules, tablets, gum, throat spray, and shampoo. The agency said that it has not received any reports of adverse health events related to the products. FDA said that it had first issued a warning letter regarding drug claims on the company’s product labeling and website in March 2007. Following the warning, Beehive Botanicals submitted new labeling, which FDA deemed acceptable. However, in the fall of 2009, the agency said that it determined that drug claims were still being made for the products through several websites. Beehive Botanicals says that those websites were “oversights,” and that they were third-party websites linked to the company’s main website, as well as a beta-testing site established by the company’s former webmaster--a website that was not meant for public viewing. “We were mortified when we learned of the unauthorized site through the FDA complaint,” said company president and CEO Linda Graham. “We had thought that we had fully responded to all of the issues raised in the FDA 2007 Warning Letter and were shocked to realize that we had an issue on our website contrary to FDA requirements.” “We hope to resolve this matter with the FDA in a manner that leaves the Agency comfortable on compliance issues while allowing Beehive to continue normal operations,” she added. The company’s contract manufacturing operations for clients is still currently operational. |
| published date: 04-12-2010 |
“Stud Capsule For Men” RecalledOn April 2, Kanec USA Inc. (Davie, FL) issued a voluntary nationwide recall of its dietary supplement called Stud Capsule For Men, after being informed by FDA that laboratory analysis revealed a batch of the product to be adulterated with Sildenafil, an FDA-approved drug used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.The presence of Sildenafil means that the dietary supplement is misbranded and is actually an unapproved new drug, according to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. FDA also added that use of the product may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs, such as nitroglycerin, and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. Consumers with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease often take nitrates, said FDA, and erectile dysfunction is a common problem in men with these conditions. |
| published date: 04-12-2010 |
Don’t Blame Sugar for Obesity, Sugar Association Tells ReutersAt a time when many are denouncing sweetened soft drinks as playing a huge role in rising obesity rates in the United States, the Sugar Association says that sugar is not to blame, according to Reuters. The association pointed out that most soft drinks are sweetened with high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), and not sugar.“Sugar is not part of the problem,” told Andrew Briscoe, president and chief executive of the Sugar Association, the Reuters. The association says that HFCS is used almost 15 times more than sugar in beverages. The association also questioned whether any sweeteners, including sugar or HFCS, can be linked to obesity, due to the fact that use of all caloric sweeteners, including HFCS, had declined 9.7% in the past decade, while at the same time, obesity rates have continued to rise. “The data simply doesn’t back up that caloric sweeteners are the cause for the obesity epidemic in this country,” said Briscoe. |
| published date: 04-12-2010 |
EFSA Establishes Dietary Reference Values for Key NutrientsThe European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published its final draft of dietary reference values (DRVs) for carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fats, and water. EFSA came to its final opinions on various nutrients after having met with nutrition experts from European Union member states, following two years of submitted opinions on nutrients.EFSA’s Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergies, crafted the final opinions which include the following determinations: Carbohydrates should account for 45 to 60% of total energy intake in adults and children. Dietary fiber can provide adults with normal bowel function at 25 grams, daily. Additional evidence suggests that higher consumption of dietary fiber may result in greater benefits. Fats should account for 20 to 35% of total energy intake, but levels are dependent upon unique needs of demographic groups such as infants and young children. Adequate water intake levels are 2 liters for women and 2.5 liters for men. One nutrient that lacked conclusive evidence for a final opinion was sugar. Even though higher sugar intake has been linked to weight gain and greater risk of tooth decay, EFSA’s panel found a lack of sufficient evidence to set upper limits on sugars. Possible health effects, the panel said, “are mainly related to patterns of food consumption…rather than a relation to the total intake of sugars itself.” For more information on the scope of EFSA’s findings, click here. |
| published date: 04-05-2010 |
Natural Wellness Issues Voluntary Recall of MasXtremeNatural Wellness (Deerfield Beach, FL) has announced a voluntary recall of its male sexual enhancement product MasXtreme because it contains “undeclared amounts” of Aildenafil, according to FDA. Aildenafil has a similar structure to Sildenafil, an FDA-approved drug for erectile dysfunction, which is found in products such as Viagra.FDA warns that Aildenafil could produce the same risk of adverse health effects as Sildenafil. Potential side effects include harmful interactions with nitrates from some prescription drugs and severely-lowered cholesterol levels. |
| published date: 04-05-2010 |
AHPA Initiates New Extract Labeling RequirementsIn an effort to better formalize herbal extract standards, the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA; Silver Spring, MD) announced new guidance and labeling requirements related to extract ratios (e.g. Hoodia gordonii extract 20:1), last month.AHPA’s board of trustees voted in favor of prohibiting the use of ratios for herbal ingredients that have not been extracted with one or more solvents. The board also voted in language indicating that the first and second numbers in an extraction ratio identify the weight of the starting plant material and the finished extract from that material, respectively. AHPA’s requirements are being recommended to AHPA members and the industry, at large. While the new trade requirements are not an obligation of AHPA membership, the new policies are officially being amended to AHPA’s Code of Ethics, and should be considered as such by all AHPA members. AHPA states that its members should comply with the new policies for all extract labels no later than September 11. |
| published date: 04-05-2010 |
Popular Sports SupplementsBy Andrew Goldman, Nutricap LabsThe past few years have seen some phenomenal leaps and bounds in the sports nutrition supplement industry. Until a few years ago, the industry was catering to a marginalized section of consumers—mainly those in the field of professional sports and athletics. This is no longer true. A major driving factor that has forced the industry to extend its boundaries is the fact that the average consumer now knows and believes that exercise and fitness are key to health, wellness, and longevity. Easy access to sports nutrition supplements and weight-loss aids at fitness clubs, gyms, pharmacies, supermarkets, health food stores, and over the internet is providing convenient outlets for health enthusiasts to purchase products that will help them meet their fitness and weight-loss goals. Weight management is perpetually in vogue these days, and so is the demand for more scientifically based weight-loss supplements. The field of sports nutrition supplements is open and expanding its territory. Market surveys and statistics confirm this with escalating sales in sports nutrition products. In 2007, the U.S. sports nutrition and weight-loss category was estimated at $18.2 billion, according to Nutrition Business Journal, and valued at $19.6 billion in 2008. This makes sports nutrition supplements one of the fastest-growing categories in the nutritional supplement industry. In a 2008 report, BCC Research (Wellesley, MA) estimated that the global market for sports nutrition products is predicted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.1% by 2013, reaching an estimated global value of almost $92 billion. What Are Popular Sports Nutritional Supplements to Manufacture? According to a survey conducted by the Natural Marketing Institute, 22% of those interviewed said they used sports nutrition products. The most popular sports nutrition supplements include: protein powders, amino acids, creatine, hydration drinks, energy drinks, sports nutrition bars, thermogenic supplements, and pain-relieving creams. Popular sports ingredients include B vitamins, zinc, guarana, citrus aurantium, glucomannan, green tea, capsaicinoids, capsaicin, inositol, and protein hydrolysates. Whey protein is by far the most popular protein. Weight-management supplements include dietary fibers known to support satiety, weight loss, cardiovascular health, and healthy blood glucose levels. Sports nutritional supplements are available in a variety of delivery forms. The more popular of these appears to be powders. Powders are able to provide great taste and pack in more nutrients than capsules or tablets. Liquids, like hydration drinks and energy drinks, provide quick delivery forms to athletes and fitness enthusiasts, since the ingredients have already been broken down for ready absorption by the body. Market researcher Mintel estimates a growth of 164% in sales of sports and energy drinks from 2002 to 2007. Effervescent tablets and powders are increasing in popularity, too. They offer a refreshing alternative to popping pills along with maximum bio-absorption of ingredients. Mintel reports that 15% of all products sold between 2005 and 2008 were either effervescent or powdered forms. The significant number of powdered sport nutrition supplements available today shows its popularity amongst consumers. More energy is what people are looking for, and energy shots fit that need because of their convenient packaging, portability, and the quick burst of energy they provide. Drink sticks deliver quick nutrition and hydration, also. These delivery forms are popular with professionals, housewives, sportsmen, health enthusiasts, and even the elderly. The nutrition sports supplement industry has a potentially huge market, and the demands are challenging. The scope for specialty products and new product releases is enormous. In spite of a slightly murky past with FDA warnings, product recalls, and the general bad press that some products have received, the sports nutrition supplement industry is reaching higher-quality horizons, gaining solid consumer trust, and greater profit rankings. Nutricap Labs is a vitamin supplement manufacturing service, providing nutritional tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, and creams. The company also offers label and packaging design services and order-fulfillment services. |
| published date: 03-29-2010 |
Taxing Unhealthy Foods Could Benefit Consumer Health, Study SaysWith talk of taxing sugary foods such as sodas at a high, a study published in the March 8 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine indicates that a price hike, such as a tax, on unhealthy foods may cause may cause adults to consumer fewer of those foods.From 1986 to 2006, the study assessed the dietary habits of 5,115 young adults ages 18 to 30. Over the 20-year period, researchers found that a 10% price increase was associated with a 7% decrease in the amount of calories consumed from soda and a 12% decrease in calories consumed from pizza. The researchers estimated that an 18% tax on these foods would result in approximately 56 fewer consumed calories per person per day. “Our findings suggest that national, state, or local policies to alter the price of less-healthful foods and beverages may be one possible mechanism for steering U.S. adults toward a more-healthful diet,” they wrote. |
| published date: 03-26-2010 |
Healthcare Reform Includes Alternative Medicine, Dietary SupplementsThe landmark Patient Protection and Affordable Health Care Act signed into law by President Obama on March 23 includes several provisions that address complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and dietary supplements.With the goal of educating Americans about preventive care, the bill stipulates the creation of “wellness plans” to be carried out through community health centers, typically in lower-income areas. In addition to providing wellness assessments and education, the programs will provide participants with a selection of dietary supplements that have FDA-approved health claims. These supplements include folic acid, calcium, vitamin D, omega-3, and multivitamins. Supplements will be targeted at “at-risk” groups, such as folic acid for pregnant women. Provisions have also been included to ensure that insurance plans do not discriminate against CAM practitioners. These practitioners include acupuncturists, chiropractors, and naturopath doctors who prescribe may prescribe dietary supplements. Industry members were pleased with the provisions. Some say that it may open the door to CAM and dietary supplements in mainstream medicine in the future. Daniel Fabricant, PhD, vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs for the Natural Products Association (Washington, DC), told Nutritional Outlook that he was glad that the government’s focus on prevention and long-term healthcare cost savings included dietary supplements and nutrition in its approach. “Prevention means a lot of different things to people. It could mean vaccination, but it also looks like it’s also going to mean nutrition, the way that the final bill is written,” he said. “If managed properly, the greater inclusion of alternative practitioners in healthcare should open a pathway for increased acceptance of the dietary supplement products they provide,” said Michael McGuffin, president of the American Herbal Products Association (Silver Spring, MD). |
| published date: 03-25-2010 |
Chaffetz Introduces “Free Speech About Science Act” in HouseCongressman Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) introduced new legislation to the House, this Tuesday, which would significantly alter the claims permitted on dietary supplements and health foods.HR 4913, the Free Speech About Science Act of 2010 would allow dietary supplements and health foods to run labels referencing “legitimate scientific research” deemed permissible under language of the new bill. The bill would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. It is currently co-sponsored by Representative Jared Polis (D-CO). To read the full language of the bill, click here. |
| published date: 03-25-2010 |
Georgia House Votes Yes on Tightened Food SafetyThose who knowingly distributing any tainted food product could soon face criminal charges in the state of Georgia. In a 142-20 vote today, the Georgia House passed a food-safety bill that, in addition to levying a $20,000 fine, would make distributing tainted food a crime. Those who broke the law would face up to 20 years in prison.The move to tighten food safety was spurred by the 2008 nationwide salmonella outbreak that stemmed from Peanut Corp.’s of America’s processing plant in Blakely, GA. Now approved by Georgia’s House, the bill will next been seen by Georgia’s Senate. Last year, the state passed a law requiring that companies alert state inspectors within 24 hours if any traces of tainted products was found in their facilities. |
| published date: 03-23-2010 |
USDA Vows to Crack Down on Organic Products After AuditFollowing an audit that deemed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP) enforcement of organic products too lax in recent years, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has promised to step up policing. AMS, which oversees the organic program, says that it will start increasing spot testing of companies operating under USDA’s certified-organic label, including companies that issue organic certification, to ensure compliance. It will also more strongly police products on store shelves that are labeled as organic.Released to the public in March, the report found that, in addition to not routinely inspecting organic facilities for pesticides, NOP failed to act in a timely fashion against companies fraudulently marketing products as organic. Among other specific examples of loose enforcement, the report cited NOP as allowing a nonorganic mint to continue to be marketed under USDA’s organic label for two years. It also stated that even after one company agreed not to market a product as organic, it continued to do so for a period of five years, without being caught. The NOP audit was conducted by Phyllis K. Fong, USDA’s inspector general. It was a follow-up to an initial NOP audit in 2005 after the NOP office was created in 2002. Fong’s report said that the audit was performed in part due to the growing organic market, which it cited as having grown between 14% and 21% annually over the past decade. In response to the report, AMS administrator Rayne Pegg stated, “NOP will audit more international operations and devote additional resources to enhance the accountability and enforcement of the organic standards.” It agreed to the report’s findings and outlined the steps it intends to take for improvement. Last fiscal year, NOP received an additional $3 million in funding and doubled its staff to 31. It may receive an additional $3.1 million in fiscal year 2010, which would aid the office in cracking down on enforcement. “The integrity of the organic label depends largely upon effective enforcement and oversight of the many accredited certifying agents responsible for reviewing organic operations,” Pegg acknowledged. |
| published date: 03-23-2010 |
Is It Getting Hot in Here?FDA is fired up about food safety. Companies should ensure their products can stand the heat.“Ensuring the safety of FDA-regulated products is a shared responsibility…and the FDA is ready to do its share.” Margaret Hamburg made this pledge last August in one of her first speeches as the new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner. If the first several months of 2010 are any indication, FDA has not relaxed on its promise to make food safety a priority. FDA has made a concerted effort to heavily publicize its actions in the name of food security and safety. The agency has been very active in tightening its regulation of food, whether it’s by banging the drum loudly for legislation to expand its regulatory capabilities (with powers such as mandatory-recall authority), touting recently initiated programs like the Reportable Food Registry as examples of successful policy changes, or by making a big splash with increased enforcement of labeling regulations already in place. For food companies regulated by FDA, this rededication to enforcement warrants a close review. To avoid action from a refocused and aggressive FDA, companies should ensure that all aspects of food operations, from manufacturing and packaging to labeling and marketing, comply with applicable laws and regulations. Legislation Granting Mandatory-Recall Authority Recalls continue to be a front-burner topic and a key agenda item for FDA. Last year’s recall of thousands of products containing peanut ingredients that could be traced back to Peanut Corp. of America (PCA) was an unmitigated disaster and had a ripple effect across the industry. The Congressional hearings and media attention involving PCA added fuel to the fire already stoked by FDA. Subsequent recalls in 2009, such as those involving Setton Pistachios and Plainview Milk, were influenced by the uproar caused by the PCA recall. Many companies were essentially left with no choice but to recall products, even though there was not a single reported case of causally linked illness. Not only did the massive costs associated with implementing the recalls put severe financial strains on companies, the expense of food-borne-illness litigation waged by plaintiffs’ attorneys was crippling as well. A recent report issued by Georgetown University in March 2010 estimated the yearly costs of food contamination and foodborne-illness outbreaks at a staggering $152 billion a year. As FDA has stepped up its enforcement activity over the last year, it has taken every opportunity to call for an increase in its authority and regulatory powers. Mandatory-recall authority is an ever-present part of any discussion. Since being sworn in last May, FDA Commissioner Hamburg has made no secret of her desire to have FDA vested with mandatory-recall authority. As the costs mount and recalls continue to garner more negative publicity, the clamor for mandatory-recall authority has become louder from outside sources as well. Legislation pending in both houses of Congress contains mandatory-recall provisions which could significantly impact the food industry. Read the full version of this article in the April issue of Nutritional Outlook. |
| published date: 03-22-2010 |
Omega-3’s Rise in Popularity, By Andrew Goldman, Nutricap LabsOmega-3’s benefits are astounding and real. The fact that the public is well aware of the varied health benefits of fish oil capsules is evidenced by a recent survey (on 6012 people) conducted online by ConsumerLab.com. The survey showed that omega-3 supplements are now at the top of consumers’ shopping list of dietary supplements, with 74% of respondents reporting that they take omega-3 supplements regularly. The next most popular category was multivitamins, which 72% of respondents reported taking. It’s mind-boggling: more Americans today are taking omega-3 supplements than they are multivitamins.This news made for an interesting read, even as private-lab testing, at the request of environmental lawyers, revealed that many of the popular fish oil capsules in the market today—and there are more than a hundred of them—may contain unhealthy levels of PCB toxins. Although tests were only done on 10 brands of fish oil capsules, the negative test reports may impact consumers’ impression of fish oil capsules. Manufacturers will need to work harder in enforcing and ensuring higher-quality manufacturing of fish oil capsules. Manufacturers with a known reputation for quality or for fish oil capsules that are verified by third-party lab testing will obviously have a competitive advantage over other brands in the market. Because omega-3’s many benefits are substantiated by strong research, the surge in sales of omega-3 supplements is more than likely to continue. Omega-3 health benefits include: • Supports cardiovascular and arterial health • Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and is useful for reducing inflammation and pain. Supports joint health. • Supports brain health, promoting concentration and long-term cognitive functions • Promotes mental well-being • Supports eye health • Supports prenatal and postnatal development of the brain and eyes • Promotes fat metabolism • Promotes cellular health In the 1980s, new manufacturing techniques were able to produce a type of fish oil that was derived from the whole fish, and not just the liver. Although this step was an upgrade in the manufacturing process, and produced the best fish oil capsules available for that time, it did not solve the problem of impurities being present in fish oil. Fish oil contains toxins, PCBs, and metal contaminants such as mercury and lead. Although fish oil was considered healthy, most people during the time loathed taking fish oil because of its obnoxious taste. With the invention of soft-gel encapsulation, this problem was solved, but another problem emerged: how could one teaspoon of fish oil be encapsulated and yet still allow the capsule to be of a size that would be easy to swallow? Today, high-tech manufacturing processes such as molecular distillation are able to remove a large percentage of the impurities in fish oil. This same process produces a higher concentration of fish oil—higher potencies of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Only a minute quantity of this pharmaceutical-grade fish oil is required in one encapsulation. There are various grades of fish oil available in the market. Pharmaceutical-grade fish oil holds the highest level of purity and potency. Many people experience bloating or mild indigestion with fish oil capsules, but further advances in formulating have introduced enteric-coated fish oil capsules. This special enteric coating allows digestion of fish oil to take place in the intestine, and not in the stomach. The advantage includes no fishy after-burps and reduced side effects common to non-enteric fish oil capsules. Consumers now enjoy the health benefits of fish oil capsules conveniently encapsulated, without the impurities. This, combined with the expanding research on omega-3 benefits, has led to the increased usage of omega-3 supplements. As science continues to affirm the rich benefits of omega-3 supplements on health, the market for fish oil capsules will continue to flourish. From 2006 to 2010, the U.S. market for fish oil capsules has more than doubled and is valued at an estimated $1 billion. Expect those numbers to grow. About Nutricap Labs: Nutricap Labs is a vitamin supplement manufacturing service, providing nutritional tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, and creams. The company also offers label and packaging design services and order-fulfillment services. Visit the company's website for more information |
| published date: 03-19-2010 |
FDA Continues Food Labeling Crackdown, Warns 17 CompaniesMaking clear its intent to correct food labeling violations, FDA issued warning letters to 17 food manufacturers last week regarding 22 products said to be making unauthorized health claims. The involved companies, including Gerber, Beech-Nut, Nestle, and Pom, will have 15 days to inform FDA of how they will correct their labels.On the same day, Commissioner of food and drugs Margaret Hamburg, MD, addressed the industry in an open letter, stating her commitment to improving food labeling practices. “I have made improving the scientific accuracy and usefulness of food labeling one of my priorities as Commissioner of Food and Drugs,” said Hamburg. “The latest focus in this area, of course, is on information provided on the principal display panel of food packages and commonly referred to as ‘front-of-pack’ labeling…Unfortunately, however, we continue to see products marketed with labeling that violates established labeling standards.” Hamburg’s open letter also reminded companies of FDA’s plan for upcoming draft guidance related to front-of-pack calorie and nutrient labeling. |
| published date: 03-08-2010 |
Update from Orrin Hatch on Dietary Supplement Safety ActIn response to Senator John McCain’s (R-Arizona) introduction of S. 3002, the Dietary Supplement Safety Act, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) held a nationwide conference call today for representatives of dietary supplement companies.Hatch echoed concerns that the bill would create “additional regulatory burdens” on responsible members of the dietary supplement industry and would curb the current consumer availability and choices of dietary supplements. “The intent of the original McCain bill is to give the FDA the authority to remove harmful dietary supplement products from the market, such as anabolic steroids,” said Hatch. “The simple fact is that the small percentage of unscrupulous manufacturers that the McCain bill targets are breaking existing laws.” Additionally, Hatch agreed that some of the bill’s proposals, such as giving FDA mandatory recall authority on products and requiring annual facility registrations, have already been established in the Food Safety Modernization Act, a bill introduced in 2009 and pending a Senate vote later this year. Since its introduction on February 3, the Dietary Supplement Safety Act has been met with industry opposition, but Hatch reassured listeners on the call that changes are on the way. “This issue is changing by the minute,” said Hatch. “I’ve been talking to John McCain a lot over the past few days and, as a result of those conversations, he now understands the serious impact this bill will have on your industry…He has told me that he does not want to do anything to hinder the ability of consumers to purchase their dietary supplements…I think he’s coming around; in fact, I know he is.” Hatch went on to say that he expects McCain to make an announcement on the matter in Arizona this weekend. Beyond legislative discussions in Congress, Hatch ended his statement urging dietary supplement companies to remain politically active and visible in Washington. “You need to invite members of Congress to your facilities so you may introduce and educate them about the dietary supplement industry,” said Hatch. “Show them how hard you work to ensure that your products are safe. Encourage them to ask you questions and not make assumptions about your industry because an open and honest relationship with your members of congress will go a long way. It should your top goal in the 111th Congress. “In addition, all of you need to become more involved in the legislative process. We need to increase our visibility on Capitol Hill. Many of you may come to Washington once or twice to lobby, but you need to do it more frequently; you need to be involved all year long.” Senator Orrin Hatch was a co-author of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 and is a current member of the Senate Subcommittee on Crime and Drugs. |
| published date: 03-05-2010 |
CRN Responds to Lawsuit: Fish Oil Poses No Health RiskFollowing news of a lawsuit filed today accusing 10 fish oil supplements of failing to meet California’s Prop 65 mandates for toxins, the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) is assuring consumers that fish oil supplements pose no health risks.The lawsuit claims that 10 branded fish oil supplements were tested and found to show presence of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), an environmental pollutant that has been linked to cancer and reproductive toxicity. The defendants are CVS Pharmacy Inc., General Nutrition Corp. (GNC), Now Health Group Inc., Omega Protein Inc., Pharmavite LLC (Nature Made brand), Rite Aid Corp., Solgar Inc., and TwinLab Corp. The lawsuit says that even products whose labels state had been refined to remove or reduce pollutants were found to contain traces of PCB. Prop 65 requires that any products sold in California that contain PCB levels over a certain threshold must carry labels warning the consumers. In its response to the lawsuit, CRN’s Andrew Shao, PhD, senior vice president, scientific and regulatory affairs, for the Council for Responsible Nutrition (Washington, DC), cautioned industry and consumers that the actual levels of PCB found in the majority of the products tested by the lawsuit do not appear to exceed the Prop 65 threshold. Shao also noted that California is the only state that whose labeling requirement employs the stringent 90 ppb PCB threshold. (FDA’s own permitted level of PCB in fish is markedly higher, at 2000 ppb.) “It’s simply a labeling issue under a single state—a statute for a single state—that doesn’t affect any other state. It’s a labeling issue, not a safety issue,” Shao told Nutritional Outlook. In a press statement, Shao added, “This lawsuit does nothing to change the strong science supporting the many health benefits of fish oil, which range from cardiovascular health to cognitive development of infants and young children.” Fish absorb PCB from their environment, and all oils extracted from fish initially contain trace amounts of PCBs, as do conventional food forms of fish. Fish oil supplements are usually refined to remove traces of PCB. No official thresholds have yet been established to determine what level of PCB is harmful to consumers. “Everyone probably has a tiny bit of either PCB or dioxins in them, and the best that science can tell us is don’t add any more,” says Chris Manthey, a plaintiff in the case. The lawsuit’s plaintiffs have signaled their intent to test additional brands of fish oil supplements. “There are more than 100 fish oil supplements on the market…and we have no way of knowing if others have more or less PCB contamination than these first 10 that we tested,” said David Roe, an attorney for the plaintiffs, in a press conference on March 2. Ultimately, he said, the plaintiffs would like to see fish oil marketers test for and reduce the levels of PCB in their products. Benson Chiles, one of the plaintiffs, says, “Our message to the public when it comes to fish oil supplements is buyer beware.” In addition to environmentalists Chiles and Manthey, the plaintiffs are Mateel Environmental Justice Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a history of Prop 65 lawsuits. The supplements selected for the study were chosen based on prior research by Greenpeace, as well as an Environmental Defense Fund survey of manufacturers. Visit www.fishoilsafety.com for more information on the lawsuit. List of fish oil supplements accused in lawsuit: 1. Nature Made Cod Liver Oil 2. Nature Made Odorless Fish Oil 3. TwinLab Norwegian Cod Liver Oil 4. TwinLab Emulsified Norwegian Cod Liver Oil 5. Now Foods Shark Liver Oil 6. Now Foods Double Strength Cod Liver Oil 7. Now Foods Salmon Oil 8. Solgar 100% Pure Norwegian Shark Liver Oil Complex 9. Solgar Norwegian Cod Liver Oil 10. GNC Liquid Norwegian Cod Liver Oil |
| published date: 03-02-2010 |
Dr. Harry Demopoulos to Explain Glutathione Absorption Efficiency at Expo WestDr. Harry Demopoulos, MD, former associate professor of pathology at the New York University School of Medicine will be at Expo West to discuss how Setria brand glutathione has been proven to be absorbed orally in animal and human clinical dosing studies. The event is sponsored by Kyowa Hakko USA (New York City).Glutathione is a tri-peptide made up of glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. It is believed to increase the effectiveness of antioxidants like vitamin C and E, and help protect the body from free radicals and other harmful compounds. Demopoulos’ presentation will be held at Expo West on Saturday, March 13, from 2 to 3 p.m. in room 205A. Visitors will also be able to meet with Kyowa Hakko customers and receive complimentary Setria products. Demopoulos is a recipient of the Research Career Development Award from the National Cancer Institute. |
| published date: 03-01-2010 |
BI Nutraceuticals to Host Open House at Long Beach FacilityA day prior to the start of Expo West in Anaheim, BI Nutraceuticals will be offering tours of its 150,000 square foot manufacturing facility in nearby Long Beach.The tour will include education about the company’s technologies in botanical ingredient certification, quality assurance, dry steam sterilization, and processing. Morning and afternoon tours will be available with a shuttle service provided at the Expo West lobby at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., respectively. For more information and to RSVP, contact Angela Dorsey-Kockler at 310/669-2163 or adorsey@botanicals.com. |
| published date: 03-01-2010 |
Truvia Beats Equal Sales in Some MarketsAfter only 12 months on the market, sales of stevia-based Truvia have surpassed those of Equal sweetener in some U.S. markets, Cargill (Wayata, MN) reports.According to Nielsen, Truvia is outperforming Equal in more than 10 U.S. sugar-substitutes markets: Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, Boise, Denver, Portland, San Francisco, Miami, San Diego, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas, and Atlanta. Overall, Truvia now holds a 7.9% dollar market share of U.S. sugar-substitute sales, reports Nielsen. Cargill/Nielsen also report great potential for the sugar-substitutes category, which grew 7.7% in the 52 weeks ending January 23, a year during which stevia sweeteners began hitting the market. “Since its launch, Truvia natural sweetener is driving new consumers—including those who have not bought sweeteners before—to the grocery and retail sweetener aisles,” says Cargill. Cargill also claims per Nielsen that Truvia leads the stevia-based sweetener market, with 58% market share. Comparatively, Whole Earth Sweetener’s PureVia holds 9.8% market share, while Cumberland Packing’s Stevia in the Raw has 9.1% dollar market share. |
| published date: 02-23-2010 |
Chocolate Brands Partner to Guarantee Cocoa Flavanol ContentMars Inc. (McLean, VA) and Barry Callebaut AG (Zurich, Switzerland), a producer of cocoa and chocolate products, have partnered to promote flavanol-rich chocolate products with guaranteed flavanol levels.The companies will cross-license their products to promote flavanol-rich chocolate products on a worldwide scale. This month, Barry Callebaut began displaying Mars’s Cocoapro “bean in hand” logo (indicating a proprietary method of processing cocoa that preserves flavanol content) on its flavanol-rich Acticoa chocolate products. “This agreement is an important step in making chocolate alternatives with clear flavanol levels available to a much broader audience, around the world,” said Hans P. Vriens, chief innovation officer at Barry Callebaut. In its press statement, Mars Inc. stated, “The agreement between these global chocolate leaders is seen as the beginning of a path leading to consistent standards for beneficial cocoa flavanol products.” Flavanols are the natural antioxidant compounds in cocoa that deliver health benefits such as circulatory health. Last year, Mars launched its CirkuHealth flavanol-rich dietary supplement. For more information, read “Mars and the Next Frontier," published in the November/December 2009 issue of Nutritional Outlook, by clicking here. View Mars's press release here. |
| published date: 02-17-2010 |
ABC Publishes Pycnogenol MonographThe nonprofit American Botanical Council (ABC; Austin, TX) has published a monograph summarizing a selection of scientific and clinical studies on Pycnogenol, a patented dietary ingredient from French maritime pine bark.The monograph reviews 17 human clinical studies, which evaluate Pycnogenol for potential health benefits such as cardiovascular health and the ability to reduce difficulties associated with chronic venous insufficiency and problems related to thrombosis, the formation or presence of blood clots in blood vessels. Based on its review, ABC’s monograph notes that Pycnogenol has been shown to have a wide range of potential benefits. Noted possible benefits include the ability of Pycnogenol to improve blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes and to improve the ability of blood vessels to widen through relaxation of the muscular wall of the vessels. ABC says that clinicial trial data also suggests that Pycnogenol may help to decrease swelling in the lower legs, benefit children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, be useful as an adjunct asthma therapy, reduce pain associated with menstrual disorders, and improve subjective symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knee. According to ABC, Pycnogenol’s manufacturer, Horphag Research (Geneva, Switzerland), annually invests $1.5 million in new scientific and clinical research on Pycnogenol. Click here to view the monograph. It is fourth in a series of product-specific monographs from ABC. |
| published date: 02-17-2010 |
FTC Warns over Omega-3 Brain, Vision ClaimsOn February 16, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC; Washington, DC) announced that it sent warning letters to 11 supplement companies in January regarding claims made by the companies that their omega-3 products benefit children’s brain and vision function and development.The letters instruct the companies to review their product packaging and labeling to ensure that they have scientific evidence to support any claims that their products boost, improve, enhance, or support brain and vision function and development in children. FTC also noted claims that were made relating to intelligence, cognitive function, learning ability, focus, mood, memory, attention, concentration, visual acuity, and eye health. FTC’s letters gave the companies two weeks to respond, warning that it would take enforcement action against any “baseless” health-related claims made without scientific proof. In its letters to the companies, FTC referenced its recent investigation of similar claims made by Northwest Natural Products Inc. (NNP) about the marketer’s L’il Critters Omega-3 Gummy Fish vitamins. FTC said that in response to its letter, NNP quickly changed its marketing materials, including packaging and labeling, to ensure compliance. |
| published date: 02-17-2010 |
Senate Bill Calls for Increased Nanotechnology ResearchNewly proposed legislation would require FDA to step up research on nanotechnology. The Nanotechnology Safety Act of 2010 would give FDA $25 million between 2011 through 2015 to assess the health and safety implications of nanotechnology in “everyday products,” and develop best practices for companies using nanotechnology.The bill was introduced by U.S. Senators Mark Pryor (D-AR) and Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) in January. Said Sen. Pryor, “Nanotechnology is one of the most important and enabling technologies being developed right now, and it has hundreds of promising applications…As these products are developed and used, we must understand any potential risks to human health, safety, or the environment. My legislation will help ensure public safety…and it will support companies that employ nanotechnology materials.” |
| published date: 02-17-2010 |
Digestive Health Leads Trends, Says NNBNew Nutrition Business names digestive health as the top health trend in its “10 Key Trends in Food, Nutrition & Health 2010” report.“[Digestive health’s] importance to consumers has been underscored by the impressive growth rates of digestive health brands, with sales of even premium brands increasing 10 to 20% during the recession,” says NNB. Forecasted by industry expert Julian Mellentin, the report says that digestive health still offers “huge areas” of opportunity in many countries, especially in fiber-fortified products, beverages, and cereals. Bone health’s market muscle is also growing, notes NNB. For the first time, Bones and Movement ranked on NNB’s top-10 list, thanks largely to the growing 40-plus age population. “It’s a niche that is getting bigger fast, and it’s a significant area of opportunity in every continent—and one that has not been fully exploited anywhere except in Asia.” As evidence of the category’s potential, NNB says that the Elations joint health brand is anticipating sales of $55 million this year, compared to $15 million in sales two years ago. “The potential of bones and movement has already got the attention of Europe’s most innovation-minded companies, where the new, ultrarestrictive health claims regime may leave bone health as one of the very few permitted claims,” the report states. Other top-10 trends Mellentin cites are energy, superfruits, antioxidants, weight management, and healthy snacking. He also names microtrends, in protein powder, children’s nutrition, probiotics, immunity, omega-3, and beauty. For more information, visit New Nutrition Business here . |
| published date: 02-11-2010 |
Yogurt Sales May Reach $67 Billion by 2015By 2015, global yogurt consumption will reach 20.6 million tons, equaling $67 billion in sales, predicts market researcher Global Industry Analysts Inc. (GIA).Currently, yogurt sales are largely driven abroad, says GIA, with Europe and Asia-Pacific accounting for 80% of the global market. “Asia presents a huge opportunity due to the rising incidence of lifestyle-related health concerns, such as diabetes and obesity, brought on by rapid economic development and rising income levels,” states GIA. Asia-Pacific yogurt consumption could reach 5.2 million tons by 2012. Narrowing the region down, GIA says that China will be the fastest-growing market, potentially reaching $3.6 billion in sales by the end of this year. GIA also noted a growing shift in consumer preference from conventional spoonable yogurts to specialty products such as yogurt drinks and children’s products. Demand for organic yogurt products and innovative, premium products, such as “bio-yogurt” or yogurt enhanced with juice and fruits, is also growing. Sales of refrigerated yogurt products continue to grow fastest, as consumers associate this sector strongly with health benefits. As for functional ingredients, the report says, “products with the ability to improve immune system and enhance digestive functioning are expected to hold ground in the future.” Danone continues to lead the market, accounting for 23.6% of sales in 2008. Other leaders are Sodiaal/Yoplait, Yakult Honsha, Nestlé, and Müller. These five companies represent more than 45% of global sales, says GIA. For more information, visit GIA’s website here. |
| published date: 02-11-2010 |
Leading Trade Associations Respond to "Flawed" Herbal Products ReviewCiting numerous scientific errors and misinformation, the American Botanical Council (ABC; Austin, TX) and the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) have responded to an article on herbal products and patients with heart disease published in the current issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.The article, “Use of Herbal Products and Potential Interactions in Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases,” reviewed common herbs and herbal supplements, and the effects they may have on factors related to heart disease and drug interaction. Both associations noted that the article includes factual errors, generalizations not backed by proper citations, and other serious flaws. ABC noted that the article’s review of “commonly used herbs” includes toxic herbs and plants not approved for the U.S. dietary supplement market, such as the toxic plant oleander (Nerium oleander), an ingredient presumed to be dried Chinese toad venom, and uzara root (Xysmalobium undulatum), an antidiarrhea herbal drug approved for use in Germany. Both associations’ press releases report a number of other instances of misinformation. “The article contains sweeping generalizations…including a reference to products—some of which are not actually herbal supplements—that produce adverse effects on the cardiovascular system,” noted CRN vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs, Douglas MacKay, ND. “Many herbal supplements offer healthful benefits,” added MacKay. “Fiber, garlic, and Hawthorne provide heart health benefits, and the potential risk for a drug interaction can be eliminated by speaking openly with your doctor.” To read an abstract of the study, click here. |
| published date: 02-05-2010 |
John McCain Introduces Dietary Supplement Safety ActSenator John McCain (R-AZ) held a press conference last week introducing the Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010. The proposed legislation, which has been cosponsored by Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND), would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), making a host of changes to operations of dietary supplement industry.Under the proposed bill, dietary supplement facilities would be required to file information identifying all brand names, ingredients, and facility names and addresses with which they conduct business. The definition of new dietary ingredients (NDIs) would also be rewritten, with FDA compiling a new list of “Accepted Dietary Ingredients.” Ingredients marketed prior to October 15, 1994, effectively protected as “grandfather ingredients” by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), would have to seek inclusion in the list of Accepted Dietary Ingredients. Provisions related to recall authority and adverse event reports (AERs) have also been included in McCain’s bill. FDA would also have new mandatory recall authority on any dietary supplements believed to be misbranded, adulterated, or cause serious, adverse health consequences or death. AERs would be affected by the requirement of annual AER reports (even including nonserious AERs). The Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010 has received mixed opinion from the dietary supplement industry. Last week, an official press release from the Council for Responsible Nutrition (Washington, DC) applauded the efforts of the bill, while also noting that “…where the legislation would deter retailers from offering a wide variety of legitimate supplements to consumers or would overburden manufacturers, we will seek alternate solutions.” The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA; Silver Spring, MD) noted that AER requirements are currently softer on the food industry. “Though we have not yet examined this bill completely, it places new burdens on dietary supplements that are not required for any other class of food,” said AHPA president Michael McGuffin in a press release last Wednesday. The legislation is currently supported by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) and a host of professional sports organizations, including Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Football League (NFL), and the National College Athletic Association (NCAA). The bill can be read at AHPA’s website here. |
| published date: 02-05-2010 |
GAO Questioning Status of "Grandfathered" IngredientsThe U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has sent letters to a selection of dietary supplement marketers, requesting evidence to support their products' "grandfathered ingredient" status. The letters target herbs such as chamomile flower tincture, echinacea root 4:1 powdered extract, and oils of peppermint leaf, ginger root, and fennel seed, according to the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA).In communication to its members, AHPA said that the letters' recipients were instructed to provide one of the following: * Evidence that the dietary supplement product was marketed in the United States prior to the enactment of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA; October 15, 1994). * Evidence that the identified product contains only dietary ingredients that have been present in the food supply as an article used for food in a form that has not been chemically altered. * A copy of documented evidence sent to FDA that shows a history of use or other evidence of safety when used as recommended. * Details of any extraction methods used. Industry members are questioning GAO's motives for issuing such letters. Many believe that the congressional watchdog is looking to investigate DSHEA's new dietary ingredient (NDI) provision, which allows "grandfathered" ingredients to legally be sold as old dietary ingredients (ODIs). In its letters, GAO states that it is reviewing the marketing of "selected herbal supplements" on behalf of the Senate Select Committee on Aging. An AHPA spokesperson informed Nutritional Outlook that GAO has declined to make the Senate committee's request available to the letters' recipients. The association said it is currently investigating why the Senate committee may have made the request to GAO. Meanwhile, according to some, dietary supplement marketers and their ingredient suppliers may have some difficulty providing some of the evidence GAO is requesting, such as documented evidence that an ingredient was marketed prior to DSHEA's passage. "The proof GAO may be requiring could include bills of lading, invoices, advertisements, etc., to show that the product was in commercial use prior to 1994," said Cal Bewicke, president of botanicals supplier Ethical Naturals (San Anselmo, CA), in an interview with Nutritional Outlook. "In some cases, a company might not have records going back to 1994. That's 16 years ago, and after all, even tax records only need to be saved for seven years." Also complicating the matter is the fact that FDA has so far not issued any guidance on establishing NDIs. Last January, GAO issued a report recommending that FDA "issue guidance to clarify when an ingredient is considered a new dietary ingredient, what evidence is needed to document the safety of new dietary ingredients, and appropriate methods for establishing ingredient identity," according to AHPA. Meanwhile, the fact that extraction and testing technologies have advanced since 1994 may further add to the problem of defining a "grandfathered" ingredient passed under DSHEA versus an NDI. AHPA points out that based on its review of the letters GAO has sent so far, it suspects that GAO "is not entirely clear on the way DSHEA addresses dietary supplements, dietary ingredients, and NDIs." The association suggests that companies that have received a letter from GAO seek legal counsel before responding, and, if needed, request more time before answering. Read AHPA's notification to its members, as well as its advice on what steps to take, at http://www.ahpa.org/Default.aspx?tabid=69&aId=572&zId=1 |
| published date: 02-01-2010 |
Industry Should Reform Bioavailability Claims, Supplier SaysA review of a selection of published ingredient studies has concluded that many bioavailability ingredient claims are often weakened by a large variance between the amounts of active ingredients subjects absorbed. The review, published in the January issue of Natural Medicine Journal, looked at studies done on CoQ10 and carotenoids. It was led by ingredients supplier BioActives LLC (Worcester, MA)."We noticed that in many studies, the intersubject variance--the difference between what individual subjects absorbed--was very large," told the study's lead author, Daniel Kagan, PhD, a managing partner at BioActives, to Nutritional Outlook. (He disclosed that a BioActives study was among the studies reviewed.) Kagan says that many of the reviewed studies failed to adequately discuss such variances, if they occurred, and their implications. For instance, he says, in many cases when a study concluded that an ingredient was more bioavailable, the ingredient was actually only more bioavailable in a minority of subjects. Wrote Kagan et al., "The results are reported based on statistically significant differences between the mean scores in different treatment groups...Some studies circumvent statistics altogether by singling out the one data point of the best absorber and [promoting] it as [being] 'up to X times more bioavailable.' While these claims are mostly based on statistically significant differences between treatment groups, they can be misleading, as the average of all the data may include subjects who were poor absorbers as well as those who were super-absorbers." Or, as Kagan says, "The few super-absorbers are the ones that can drive the results." As a result of what Kagan calls incomplete reporting, "it is difficult for physicians and consumers to compare the bioavailability claims of different formulations," wrote Kagan et al. Moreover, Kagan points out, if a consumer purchases a product labeled highly bioavailable when data actually showed it is highly bioavailable for some of the subjects and not highly bioavailable for others, then the consumer wouldn't know whether he or she is likely to be represented by the group that does or doesn't absorb the supplement well. By contrast, Kagan et al. note that, "The pharmaceutical industry has a concrete definition of bioavailability and uses explicit methods for evaluating the bioavailability of drugs...In fact, bioavailability studies are an important part of the information necessary to support an FDA approval." Kagan et al. suggest that the industry instead adopt new, standard terms when making bioavailability claims that indicate the likely percentage of consumers for whom an ingredient is bioavailable. If a bioavailability claim likely applies to 85% of consumers, an ingredient/product could then be deemed reliably bioavailable. If a claim applies to 99% of consumers, an ingredient/product could be deemed universally bioavailable. (The authors offer a method for calculating these criteria.) The reviewers concluded, "The benefits derived from nutritional supplements are directly related to their bioavailability, yet the dietary supplement industry lacks well-defined standards to ensure adequate bioavailability." Kagan adds that improving the accuracy of bioavailability claims may improve the chances that consumers will select supplements that are bioavailable for them. "Think of all the return customers companies are losing because the consumer did not realize the benefit of the supplement," he says. For more information, e-mail Daniel Kagan at dankagan@earthlink.net. |
| published date: 02-01-2010 |
Symrise Acquires Futura LabsSymrise (Holzminden, Germany) has acquired Futura Labs Group, a flavor and fragrances manufacturer headquartered in Cairo. Through the acquisition, Symrise will expand its presence in several key markets in Egypt.The company says that Futura Labs’ product portfolio and client list nicely complement Symrise’s operations in Egypt, and that together, the companies will be a market leader in flavor and fragrances in Egypt. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Sensient Creates New Botanical PlatformSensient Flavors and Fragrances Group (Indianapolis) has developed a new marketing platform for its botanical ingredients, called Sensient Natural Origins. The new marketing reflects how the company has expanded its global extraction, R&D, and manufacturing capabilities, including for its previously named Templar natural botanical extract line, which now operates under the Sensient Natural Origins name. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Korea Approves Decas’s Cranberry Powder ClaimDecas Botanical Synergies LLC (Carver, MA) has obtained Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) approval for a health claim of supporting urinary health for PACran, its cranberry powder. PACran is a clinically supported and proanthocyanidin-standardized cranberry powder. The supplier says that the approval is the first from KFDA for a health food product for urinary health. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
ESM Gets GMP-CertifiedESM Technologies (Carthage, MO), a supplier of eggshell and eggshell membrane wellness ingredients, has received Good Manufacturing Practices certification from NSF International. ESM says that such certification verifies that its products have the identity, strength, composition, quality, and purity that they are said to possess. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Seltzer Adopts Glanbia NameSeltzer Companies Inc. (Carlsbad, CA), which includes Seltzer Nutritional Technologies and Seltzer Ingredients, has officially taken on the name of its parent company, Glanbia Nutritionals Inc. The company’s products will now operate under the Glanbia Nutritionals Customized Solutions brand. Glanbia acquired Seltzer in 2006. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Piveg Trademarks I-Z ZeaxanthinPiveg Inc. (Celaya, Mexico) has trademarked its I-Z zeaxanthin. The company has produced zeaxanthin isomer from marigolds for nutritional eye health applications since 1999. “Newer participants in the carotenoid and zeaxanthin field are confusing customers with claims and product nomenclatures that have in fact been available in the industry for years,” says company CEO Roberto Espinoza. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Atrium Innovations Joins CRNAtrium Innovations (Quebec City, QC, Canada), owner of nutrition brands such as Garden of Life and Douglas Laboratories, has joined the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC).In addition to complying with federal and state regulations governing dietary supplements in the areas of manufacturing, marketing, quality control, and safety, CRN member companies adhere to additional voluntary guidelines, as well as CRN’s code of ethics. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
SourceOne, Twin Rivers Partner on Omega-3SourceOne Global Partners (Chicago) is working with Twin Rivers Technologies (TRT; Cincinnati), which will supply SourceOne with U.S.-produced omega-3 in its natural triglyceride form. The companies say that this form of omega-3 is naturally found in foods.According to the companies, demand for the triglyceride form of omega-3 has increased as awareness grows of studies supporting improved absorption and bioavailability of triglyceride omega-3 over omega-3 in ethyl ester form. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Fortitech Enters Russian MarketParticipating in the Ingredients Russia trade show for the first time last year, Fortitech Europe ApS (Gadstrup, Denmark) is making its entry into the Russian market, the company reported. The premix supplier has aligned itself with KUK, a distributor in Russia and Eastern Europe, to develop projects with food and beverage manufacturers in those regions.“The consumer demand for fortified foods and beverages in Russia, as well as the rest of Eastern Europe, is exploding,” says Martin Austin, managing director and general manager of Fortitech Europe ApS. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Epax Omega-3 Deemed Sea-FriendlyOmega-3 supplier Epax AS (Aalesund, Norway) has been awarded Friend of the Sea certification for sustainable marine sourcing and production methods. The company’s omega-3 oils have documented, traceable origins from sustainable fisheries.The certification indicates that products do not originate from overexploited stock, that fishing methods do not impact the seabed, and that fishing methods are selective and below the world average for discards. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Morre-Tec Receives ISO CertificationMorre-Tec Industries and its Extract & Ingredients Ltd. division have received ISO 9001:2008 certification. The company is a manufacturer and distributor of bromine intermediates, personal care and nutritional ingredients, and natural extracts. “With ISO 9001:2008, CGMP compliance, and a HACCP [Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points] plan, we anticipate additional growth,” says president Len Glass. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
B&D Distributing Solazyme Microalgae LineB&D Nutritional Ingredients Inc. (Vista, CA) is now distributing Solazyme Health Sciences’ Golden Chlorella line of sustainably grown microalgae powders. The line includes Golden Chlorella Omega and Golden Chlorella High Protein powders for dietary supplements and functional foods. The company says that both provide solutions for heart-healthy, vegetarian, protein-rich functional foods. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Danisco Web Site Highlights Sustainable OptionsDanisco (New Century, KS) now offers a Web site designed to help food manufacturers find climate-friendly sourcing and manufacturing opportunities among its product offerings. The site addresses five types of sustainable options: those that reduce energy, water, or raw-material consumption; and those the enable material substitution and waste reduction.“We can show manufacturers how to make direct savings in resource consumption using our ingredients,” says Jesper Kampp, group manager. Visit www.danisco.com/climate for more information. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
NPA Certifies NatrolNutritional product manufacturer Natrol has been certified by the Natural Products Association’s CGMP program. Natrol’s line includes brands such as MRI, Prolab, Promensil, and Trinovin. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Fusion Starts Sustainability ProgramContract and private-label manufacturer Fusion Formulations (Phoenix) says that last year it started its sustainability program. The program involves reducing manufacturing waste in all forms—a move that the company says will also result in cost-savings for its partners. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Krill Oil PartnershipNorwegian-based krill-oil supplier Aker BioMarine has signed a long-term agreement to provide its Superba krill oil to Valensa International (Eustis, FL) for joint health and eye health products. The companies will also jointly perform clinical studies on Superba as an ingredient in Valensa’s formulations, which will also include Valensa’s own proprietary ingredients, including Zanthin natural astaxanthin. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Novus Forms Human-Nutrition UnitNovus International (St. Louis) has created its human-nutrition division, called Stratum Nutrition. The division will focus on developing specialty and functional ingredients for foods, beverages, and dietary supplements in North America and Europe. Previously, Novus was primarily known for its work in animal agriculture health and nutrition. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Missouri Awards Alpha PackagingAlpha Packaging (St. Louis) was honored by the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry as one of the state’s fastest-growing companies. The nomination-based awards are presented annually and given to companies with the highest rate of growth over a four-year span. |
| published date: 01-28-2010 |
Registered Dietitians Value Dietary Supplements, Study SaysThe “Life…supplemented” campaign just released results from its 2009 Healthcare Professionals Impact Study, finding that dietary supplements have a considerable impact on healthcare professionals and their relationships with clients.The survey, conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs (Chicago), found that eight out of every ten registered dietitians (RDs) “view dietary supplements as important for maintaining health.” Eighty-one percent of those surveyed believe that most people can fill gaps in their nutrition with vitamin and dietary supplement use. The survey found that 91% of RD’s actually take dietary supplements and recommend them to their clients. Popular supplements used by RD’s include multivitamins (84%), specialty supplements (64%), and omega-3 fish oils (47%). Combining the results of three separate surveys, the “Life…supplemented” survey included 300 nurse practitioners, 300 pharmacists, and 300 registered dietitians. “Life…supplemented” is a campaign of the CRN Foundation, an educational affiliate of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (Washington, DC). |
| published date: 12-21-2009 |
Federal Working Group Proposes New Standards for Marketing Food to ChildrenIn response to rising concern about childhood obesity in the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC; Washington, DC), in partnership with other government agencies, has published new nutrition standards for how food should be marketed to children.The standards, published last week, were developed by the Interagency Working Group on Food Marketed to Children (Working Group), a group made up of representatives from FTC, FDA, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Foods marketed to children would be required to “provide a meaningful contribution to a healthful diet,” as characterized by either of two options outlined in the Working Group’s report. Option A would require 50% of a food’s weight to come from healthful foods, including fruit, vegetable, whole grain, nuts, seeds, or beans. Option B would require a marketed food to contain any number of a minimum amount of listed foods that characterize a “healthful diet.” The full list of standards can be viewed here Foods exempt from the new standards would include 100% content products of fruits, vegetables, non-fat and low-fat milk and yogurt, whole grains, and water. “The federal government is headed in exactly the right direction with the draft nutrition standards,” said Margo G. Wootan, nutrition policy director for the Center of Science in the Public Interest (Washington, DC) in an official press release, last week. “If adopted, the landscape of kids’ food advertising would shift quite dramatically in favor of foods that promote health, and away from foods that promote obesity and disease. The working group intends to submit a final report to Congress no later than July 15, 2010. |
| published date: 12-21-2009 |
FDA Publishes New Draft Guidance for Liquid Beverages, SupplementsBy Justin J. Prochnow, Greenberg Traurig LLPFDA published a new Draft Guidance, entitled “Factors that Distinguish Liquid Dietary Supplements from Beverages, Considerations Regarding Novel Ingredients, and Labeling for Beverages and Other Conventional Foods,” on December 3. FDA ostensibly issued the Draft Guidance to assist dietary supplement and beverage manufacturers in reaching a determination as to whether a liquid product may be labeled and marketed as a dietary supplement. However, it is clear that FDA’s underlying purpose for issuing such a guidance is its growing concern over the types of products marketed as dietary supplements, perhaps signifying that this area may be one in which FDA will increase its enforcement focus in the near future. This concern is evidenced by FDA’s statement in the Draft Guidance that “we have seen an increase in the marketing of beverages as dietary supplements, in spite of the fact that the packaging and labeling of many liquid products represent the products as conventional foods.” The full version of this article will be published in Nutritional Outlook's January/February 2010 issue. |
| published date: 12-08-2009 |
Associations Still Oppose Swine Flu-Targeted SupplementsKey dietary supplement trade groups are again voicing disapproval of dietary supplements sold as treatments for the H1N1 virus.Since May, FDA and the FTC have issued 147 warning letters to companies marketing products for the prevention or cure of swine flu, including products such as air filters, facemasks, shampoos, and supplements. Earlier in May, the organizations together released a joint statement discouraging sales of such products. The associations include the American Herbal Products Association, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, the Council for Responsible Nutrition, the Natural Products Association, and the United Natural Products Alliance. The organizations stated that there are dietary supplements that can enhance the body’s general immune function. However, the groups said they are unaware of any scientific data supporting the use of dietary supplements to treat the H1N1 virus. They also emphasized that federal law does not allow dietary supplements to claim to treat any diseases, including swine flu. The groups also advised dietary supplement marketers and retailers to refuse to stock or sell any supplements presented as treating or curing H1N1. Finally, the groups said: “The organizations supporting this advisory represent the majority of dietary supplement manufacturers. Each of the associations and its member companies remain committed to providing the American public with high-quality products for supporting personal health and permitting ‘self-care’ choices, and encourage FDA and FTC to continue to take aggressive enforcement action against companies that are illegally marketing supplement products to treat the H1N1 virus. Each of the associations is also committed to recognizing that there are some health conditions for which the choice of self-care should be actively discouraged. The current global outbreak of the H1N1 virus is such a condition.” |
| published date: 12-08-2009 |
DEA Classifies Three SteroidsThe U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA; Springfield, VA) announced that it has classified boldione, desoxymethyltestosterone, and 19-nor-4,9(10)-androstadienedione as anabolic steroids under the Controlled Substances Act, according to the Natural Products Association (NPA; Washington, DC). This ruling will be made effective January 4, 2010.NPA released a press release, last week, commending the action by DEA. “The association has maintained all along that federal regulators have the authority they need [to schedule these substances],” said John Gay, executive director and CEO of NPA. “The DEA’s listing of these three steroids demonstrates that federal regulators can indeed safeguard the shelves against these substances.” The classified substances received increased scrutiny during talks at a September Senate hearing on “hidden steroids” held by the Senate Subcommittee on Crime and Drugs. DEA first received notice for proposed rulemaking on the substances in April 2008. The agency also states that, since August 2008, it has been aware of 58 dietary supplements believed to contain one or more of these substances. DEA’s full announcement can be read here |
| published date: 12-08-2009 |
Consumer Advocate Seeks Ban of Weight Loss Pill MeridiaThe consumer advocacy group Public Citizen (Washington, DC) announced yesterday that it is petitioning FDA to pull the weight loss pill Meridia off of the U.S. market, according to AP News. Meridia is a name-brand sibutramine pill manufactured by Abbot Laboratories (Abbot Park, IL).Public Citizen cites a 10,000 patient study, known as the SCOUT study, in which higher risks of heart problems were connected to the drug. The group also claims that 84 deaths related to the drug have been reported to FDA since June. In response to the data cited in the SCOUT study, Abbot Laboratories spokesman Kurt Ebenhoch stated that “Sibutramine is not recommended or approved for use in more than 90% of the patients who participated in the SCOUT study.” Reports state that FDA has not yet announced conclusions about the study’s findings. |
| published date: 12-04-2009 |
USADA Unveils Initiative against Nutritional Supplements Containing DrugsIn an effort to raise public awareness of companies selling dietary supplements tainted with steroids and other drugs, the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA; Colorado Springs, CO) has introduced its “Supplement Safety Now” initiative.With the support of national sport organizations, including the National Basketball Association, the National Football League, Major League Baseball, and the United States Olympic Committee, this online campaign aims to motivate Congress to take action against online and over-the-counter sales of tainted sports supplements with grassroots mobilization and media outreach efforts. “Thirteen million people who are touched fall under the umbrella of these member based organizations,” said Travis Tygart, CEO of USADA, in an interview with Nutritional Outlook. “That’s a group of constituents that we hope to mobilize to influence Congress to enact better legislation on this issue.” Tygart went on to add that “Supplement Safety Now” will see future developments as the campaign continues. Steve Mister, president and CEO of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (Washington, DC), released an official statement on USADA’s initiative the day it was launched. “CRN commends USADA and the other supporting organizations for today stepping forward in a united front to find ways to get these illegal products removed from the marketplace,” Mister said. “Where CRN can find common ground on the solutions, we look forward to potentially partnering with these organizations on ‘Supplement Safety Now.’” NSF International (Ann Arbor, MI) also announced “full support” of the initiative in an official press release, stating, “This campaign will create increased awareness around this important public health issue and help safeguard consumers from taking steroids and other illegal or controlled substances in products that are marketed as ‘safe and legal’ dietary supplements.” For more details about “Supplement Safety Now,” click here |
| published date: 12-03-2009 |
Fruits and Vegetables May Improve Bone HealthA recent University of Toronto study on bone health has found that various nutrients found in fruits and vegetables may improve bone health beyond the assumed benefits of calcium and vitamin D, according to Julie Beun of Canada’s Canwest News Service, who broke news of the story last week.Researchers at the University of Toronto compared the effects of two nutritional supplements, Bone Builder and Greens +, with calcium supplementation alone, and found the supplements to be more effective at stimulating osteoblasts, cells responsible for bone formation. “Although calcium is positively associated with increased bone mineral density, there is also evidence to show that calcium alone is not sufficient,” said Leticia Rao, PhD, leader of the study. “Several antioxidants, a number of which are obtained primarily through foods such as fruits and vegetables and nutritional supplements, have been shown in both in vitro and clinical studies that they can counteract oxidative stress and prevent the risk of osteoporosis...other nutritional components [are required] in increasing bone formation.” Beun reports that these components included three absorbable calcium sources, vitamins D, C, and B; the antioxidant lycopene; magnesium; selenium; zinc; copper; manganese; and the amino acid L-lysine. |
| published date: 12-01-2009 |
AHPA Revises Guidelines for Cleanliness and Metal PoliciesThe American Herbal Products Association’s (AHPA; Silver Spring, MD) board of trustees recently accepted revisions for the association’s guidelines for policies on microorganisms and mycotoxins, and heavy metals. The established guidelines serve as AHPA standards for responsible trade of herbal supplements to benefit the industry and its consumers.AHPA urges companies to submit information on any ingredients that exceed substance limits outlined in the AHPA in order to ultimately meet those limits. “The new guidance policies are based on a careful review of microbial and other limits established by governments and organizations across the world,” said AHPA president Michael McGuffin. “AHPA’s limits prioritize consumer safety while remaining sensitive to industry needs – a strategy that promotes both compliance and safety.” AHPA’s complete guidelines can be viewed here: www.ahpa.org/Portals/0/2009/09_1118_Guidance_Policies.pdf |
| published date: 12-01-2009 |
PIVEG Inc. Launches I-Z Trademark for Zeaxanthin Isomer ProductsNutraceutical products manufacturer PIVEG Inc. (PIVEG; Celaya, Mexico) launched its I-Z trademark for Zeaxanthin carotenoid products at the SupplySide West trade show in Las Vegas, last week.The company produces carotenoid concentrates for eye health, such as Zeaxanthin and Lutein, along with other products at its facilities in Celaya, Mexico. PIVEG CEO Roberto Espinoza stressed last week that “newer participants in the carotenoid and Zeaxanthin field are confusing customers with claims and product nomenclatures that have in fact been available in the industry for years…reaching for patent protection that does not apply or is not novel.” PIVEG’s Zeaxanthin Isomer production from marigolds was invented in 1993 and commercialized in 1999. The company’s carotenoids are available in any ratio of concentration and in a variety of formats. PIVEG is FDA-registered and GMP-certified with manufacturing facilities in two countries and sales in Europe, America, and Asia. For more information, visit www.piveg.com |
| published date: 11-18-2009 |
Seltzer Companies is now Glanbia NutritionalsSeltzer Companies Inc. (Seltzer; Carlsbad, CA) announced today that it has changed its name to Glanbia Nutritionals Inc. and will operate under the Glanbia Nutritionals Customized Solutions brand.Seltzer, which includes Seltzer Nutritional Technologies and Seltzer Ingredients, is a subsidiary of Glanbia Nutritionals (Glanbia; Monroe, WI). "As part of the global Glanbia Group since 2006, it is only fitting that we complete the association with our parent company by undertaking this rebranding initiative," said Richard Hazel, Seltzer CEO. "We look forward to continuing to provide our portfolio of nutritional ingredients, colors and customized micronutrient blends to manufacturers of nutritional, food, beverage, human health and personal care products.” This new branding allows for the combining of Glanbia's plants in Shanghai and Orsingen, Germany with the former Seltzer plants in Carlsbad and Springfield, Missouri. Glanbia Nutritionals is at Supply Side West in booth #25064. |
| published date: 11-12-2009 |
Naturex Releases Cereboost for Brain Health.Natural ingredients manufacturer Naturex (Avignon, France) has announced its launch of Cereboost, an American Ginseng extract, for cognitive function.Cereboost will be added to Naturex's NAT Life line of clinically-tested ingredients. A clinical study conducted by the Brain Science Institute at Swinburne University (Melbourne) found that Cereboost positively impacted patients in the area of mental function, namely working memory and alertness. Naturex launched Cereboost at Supply Side West, currently being held in Las Vegas, and will also showcase the ingredient at next week's Food Ingredients Europe in Frankfurt. |
| published date: 11-12-2009 |
Gencor Nutrients to Present Fenugreek Male Libido Study Findings at SupplySide WestNext week at SupplySide West, Gencor Nutrients Inc. (Anaheim, CA) will present the results of a new human clinical study recently completed in Australia on male libido and Testofen, Gencor's proprietary extract of fenugreek. Gencor says that the study's results show Testofen to be a safe and effective product for increasing libido in healthy males.The randomized, double-blind placebo study tested sexual function, performance, and libido levels in 60 healthy males ranging between the ages of 21 and 50, over a six-week period. Gencor says that results showed that Testofen produced a significant positive change in all parameters of libido, including sexual cognition, sexual arousal, sexual experience, and orgasm. The company adds that the effects may also be a result of interaction with testosterone via alpha-5 reductase activity. Details of the study will be presented at SupplySide West in a VendorWorks seminar on November 13 at 2:30 p.m. |
| published date: 11-04-2009 |
Kellogg Ceases Immunity Claims for CerealKellogg Co. plans to discontinue use of the phrase, “Now helps support your child’s immunity,” on boxes of Kellogg’s Rice Krispies and Cocoa Krispies cereal. The move was announced after a letter questioning the marketing claim was sent to Kellogg by San Francisco city attorney Dennis J. Herrera.Herrera’s letter requested that Kellogg provide evidence to back up its immunity claim, which Kellogg started adding to its packaging after the company began adding extra antioxidants to the cereals in question last year. Herrera’s letter also expressed concern that “the immunity claims may also mislead parents into believing that serving this sugary cereal will actually boost their children’s health,” especially when concerns over swine flu are so heightened. Kellogg spokesperson Susanne Norwitz said that the company started adding antioxidants to the cereals last year, before the swine flu outbreak. She said that the packaging’s launch coincidentally coincided with rising concerns about the disease. Kellogg said that it will continue to feature the antioxidants in the products but will phase out the packaging with the immunity claim. |
| published date: 11-04-2009 |
KGK Synergize Inc. to Participate in “Penguin Climb” for CharityKGK Synergize Inc. (KGK; London, ON) is proud to announce that its staff will be participating in the “Climb of the Penguins” charity event in support of The United Way of London & Middlesex, Ontario (United Way of London) on November 5, 2009.The public charity event is a “climb” of 427 steps to the top of One London Place, the 24-story skyscraper that houses KGK operations. “The staff has been busy collecting pledges for the event, and has even started training on their lunch hour,” said Najla Guthrie, president and CEO of KGK, who will also participate in the event. “It is very encouraging to see everyone come together and have fun to support such a great cause.” United Way of London is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all families, children, and neighborhoods within its communities. KGK provides product development and research services to the health nutrition, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries. More information on the climb can be found here: www.uwlondon.on.ca.KGK Synergize Inc. Ready to “Climb” for Charity |
| published date: 10-28-2009 |
Shoreline Fruit and Anderson Global Introduce CherryPURE Tart Cherry Skin ExtractGrower and manufacturer of cherry products Shoreline Fruit LLC (Traverse City, MI) has joined forces with the ingredient supplier Anderson Global Group LLC (Irvine, CA) to create CherryPURE, a tart cherry skin extract for the North American dietary supplement, personal care, and food industries.CherryPURE is intended for use in joint health, sleep, superfruit, and antioxidant markets. The companies claim their tart cherry product can provide beneficial levels of polyphenols, anthocyanins, flavanoids, and natural melatonin. CherryPURE is available in powder form and will be at booth #25045 at next month’s Supply Side West show in Las Vegas. |
| published date: 10-26-2009 |
FDA to Crack Down on Front-of-Package Labeling, Smart Choices Suspends ProgramFollowing last week’s FDA announcement that the agency will begin to enforce against misleading front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labels, officials of the recently launched Smart Choices FOP labeling program announced that it would put its program on hold.Last Tuesday, FDA released a letter to industry stating that the agency will begin policing claims made in FOP labels. This is the first time that the agency has taken an active role in overseeing FOP label claims. FOP labeling programs have come under new criticism recently, as this summer the Smart Choices logo began appearing on the fronts of food packages of some of the largest food corporations, including Generals Mills, Kraft Foods, and Kellogg Co. Many critics have decried the Smart Choices nutrition criteria as being too lenient, allowing foods high in sugar and fat to use the program’s logo. Another criticism of FOP labeling programs in general is that there are too many independent FOP logos on the market, ultimately confusing consumers. On the Tuesday that the FDA letter was released, FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg held a press conference to discuss the new role FDA is undertaking to oversee FOP labeling. She said that the agency plans to bring standardization to FOP labeling by developing a “single set of science- and nutrition-based criteria” that all FOP labels should abide by. The agency is also launching a consumer research program to determine how consumers are influenced by FOP labels, and how to best convey nutrition information to consumers through FOP labels. Hamburg said that the agency could make “significant progress” toward its goal by the end of 2010. As a model, FDA will be looking to the United Kingdom’s “traffic light” nutrition labeling approach, for which government defines the nutritional criteria that foods using FOP labels should meet. The U.K.’s labeling system is voluntary, meaning that many retailers have voluntarily adopted the government’s criteria. FDA hopes that a voluntary program will work in the United States. If it doesn’t, however, the agency is prepared to use its authority “to move toward a mandated approach, should that prove necessary,” said Hamburg. And the agency is ready to start enforcing against current FOP labels on the market that could be misleading consumers. Hamburg and her staff will begin examining existing FOP labels for violations of current FDA labeling rules, including those rules under FDA’s Nutrition and Education Labeling Act. Hamburg also called on industry to report any cases of misleading labeling. “If you know of any products in the marketplace in your areas that you think should be brought to our attention, please feel free to do so,” she said. Hamburg also stressed that FDA is seeking a collaborative approach with the food industry, including manufacturers and retailers, to help devise appropriate labeling criteria. “While we may take enforcement action against manufacturers whose labels are either false or misleading, our primary aim is to work with the food industry to help develop appropriate criteria for FOP labeling that will truly serve American consumers.” Meanwhile, the announcement that Smart Choices would halt any further growth of its program was surprising, if not welcome, to many. The program’s officials said that while FDA is reviewing nutrition claims, the Smart Choices program will “voluntarily postpone active operations and not encourage wider use of the Smart Choices Program logo.” Products currently bearing the Smart Choices logo will remain on shelves, however, and food companies already participating in the program can continue to use the logo. Smart Choices officials said that the program’s criteria will be adjusted if necessary to meet any criteria decided on by FDA. |
| published date: 10-26-2009 |
Consumer Confidence in Dietary Supplements Remains Stable, Says CRN SurveyIn the face of an economic recession and raids on companies selling tainted supplements, dietary supplement use appears to be steady, according to a survey conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs (Ipsos; Washington, DC) for the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC).The 2009 Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements found that 84% of Americans surveyed claim to be “confident in the safety, quality, and effectiveness of dietary supplements,” compared with 81% in last year’s survey. This is also the highest recording of consumer confidence since the study’s inception in 2001. A slight increase was also found in the amount of people who claim to use dietary supplements (65% in 2009, compared with 64% in 2008). These figures are only a few percentage points below 2008 and 2007 figures (68% and 66%, respectively). CRN claims the 2009 results are hopeful, considering that three quarters of those surveyed claimed that they haven't changed their supplement purchasing habits due to the recession. “We believe that responsible companies within the industry can take some of the credit for the continued rise in consumer confidence,” says Steve Mister, president and CEO of CRN. “They have embraced new regulatory requirements, such as adverse event reporting and new Good Manufacturing Practices specific to dietary supplements.” Increased industry regulation is also believed to have been a factor in the 2009 results. Another high note for the industry came with a reported 78% of surveyed Americans taking daily multivitamins (an increase from 75% in 2008). “As hard as they may try, many consumers recognize that daily stress and lack of time prohibit them from eating as well as they know they should,” says Judy Blatman, senior vice president of communications for CRN. “They realize that they can’t meet all of their nutritional requirements through diet alone…We’re encouraged that consumers continue to look to the multivitamin to help round out their nutritional habits.” The 2009 Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements surveyed 2043 adults from August 26 to September 1. Ipsos claims weighting was used to accurately represent U.S. census data. |
| published date: 10-23-2009 |
Natural Products Association Appoints New CEOThe Natural Products Association (NPA; Washington, DC) has announced the hiring of John F. Gay as executive director and CEO, today."After conducting a thorough search for someone with an outstanding background in advocacy and trade association leadership, John is the ideal person for the job,” said Pat Sardell, president of NPA. “John has tremendous experience and a widely respected presence on Capitol Hill." Gay's professional experience includes a number of government relations positions. Most recently, he served as senior vice president of government affairs and public policy for the National Restaurant Association (Washington, DC). Gay will assume action with NPA in time for the NPA Board of Directors meeting on November 2. |
| published date: 10-22-2009 |
Novel Ingredient Services Adds Management PersonnelNovel Ingredient Services (West Caldwell, NJ and Los Angeles), a supplier of botanical and nutraceutical raw materials, has announced the hiring of Gisela Roufs and Yolanda Nargiella as west coast account executive and director of quality control, respectively. Roufs has more than a decade of experience with raw material suppliers, including American Ingredients (Anaheim, CA) and Pharmachem Laboratories (Kearny, NJ). Nargiella comes with eight years of experience in a similar position with Johnson & Johnson (Langhorne, PA). She will oversee quality assurance, quality control, and testing departments with her new company. |
| published date: 10-21-2009 |
Melon Juice May Alleviate Stress, FatigueDaily intake of a melon juice concentrate may help to lessen stress and fatigue, according to a new study published in Nutrition Journal. A pilot study tested the effects of oral supplementation with a supplement containing Extramel, a proprietary freeze-dried melon juice concentrate that is rich in antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes. SOD enzymes are thought to fight against oxidative cell damage, which several studies have linked to perceived feelings of stress.The randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was performed on 70 healthy volunteers between the ages of 30 and 55 years old. The subjects took an oral supplement containing 10 mg of Extramel, or a placebo, once daily over the course of four weeks. Feelings of stress and fatigue were measured using four psychometric scales: FARD, PSS-14, SF-12, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Subjects who took the melon juice concentrate showed decreased symptoms of stress and fatigue, including less physical pain, less trouble sleeping, less trouble concentrating, less weariness, and less irritability. No adverse effects were noted. Researchers also reported that the placebo effect was very high for the first seven days of supplementation, perhaps because the subjects studied did not have very high levels of fatigue and stress. According to researchers, subjects’ stress and fatigue corresponded with a “normal everyday level of fatigue and stress of working people in developed countries.” They noted that a higher base level of stress and fatigue might lead to a more significant difference between the placebo and the supplemented group. On a side note, researchers noted that although SOD helped to decrease trouble sleeping, it did not cause sleepiness, which can be a side effect of many sedatives. Extramel is an ingredient offered by Bionov. High in antioxidants, Extramel contains concentrated melon juice microencapsulated in a vegetal coating, as well as other ingredients that are part of the antioxidants naturally found in melon pulp, such as catalase, glutathione, vitamins, caratenoids, and selenium. |
| published date: 10-20-2009 |
Dr. Weil Website Receives First Joint FDA, FTC H1N1 Warning LetterOn October 15, FDA and the Federal Trade Commission together issued their first joint warning letter to www.drweil.com, a website associated with health guru Dr. Andrew Weil, for what the agencies called fraudulent H1N1 marketing claims.Among other things, the agencies took issue with a page on the website titled “Swine Flu and You,” on which Weil gave advice on how to avoid contracting the H1N1 flu. On the same page, Weil suggested using his Weil Immune Support Formula product to help ward off colds and the flu. Posted on the web page was this statement from Weil: “[D]uring the flu season, I suggest taking a daily antioxidant, multivitamin-mineral supplement, as well as astragalus, a well-known immune-boosting herb that can help ward off colds and flu. You might also consider…the Weil Immune Support Formula[,] which contains both astragalus and immune-supportive polypore mushrooms…” The warning letter, the first to be issued jointly by the agencies, gave the website 48 hours to respond. Although Weil denied in a statement that his website aimed to market a fraudulent H1N1 product, he ordered that the content in question be deleted from the website, and issued a press statement saying, “I fully support the FDA/FTC task force in its efforts.” In the same statement, Weil also added: “The content that was called into question in the warning was primarily educational, including appropriate strategies to avoid getting the flu this season. It included the official recommendations for H1N1 flu vaccination from the Centers for Disease Control.” He added: “Because these products and the flu (which is a medical diagnosis) were both mentioned in editorial content on the site, and it was suggested that particular traditional herbal ingredients may provide some protection against flu, it was the opinion of the FDA/FTC that the language was in violation of current standards.” Since May 2009, FDA has issued warning letters to more than 75 websites, to stop the sale of more than 135 products with fraudulent H1N1 claims. This week, FDA enhanced its efforts to warn the public about deceptive H1N1 flu products and encourage reporting of such products by releasing an H1N1 influenza fraud widget. The agency says that the hope is that the widget will “allow the public to play an active role in preventing flu fraud. |
| published date: 10-20-2009 |
BioCell Appoints Stanford ScientistBiocell Technology (Newport Beach, CA) announced the appointment of Joosang Park, PhD, as vice president of scientific affairs, earlier this week.Park, who has direct research experience at Harvard Medical School and Stanford University, will be responsible for all research and development affairs related to patented and branded nutraceutical ingredients; namely BioCell Collagen II and i-Sabi. The company has also announced the launch of its new wasabi japonica ingredient, i-Sabi, for brain health support. “[Research data] strongly supports that bioactive compounds, such as isothiocyanates in the wasabi rhizome extract, can exert a diverse range of physiological effects,” says Park. These effects include antioxidant, liver-protective, anti-inflammatory, and neuritogenic activities. Park will be giving a presentation, “BioCell Collagen II: A Natural Solution for Healthy Joints, Skin, and Aging,” at the upcoming Supply Side West conference at 8am on November, 12. |
| published date: 10-20-2009 |
Study Confirms Quick Absorption, Good Retention For Vitamin C IngredientA recent clinical study of Fast-C, a vitamin C ingredient, has confirmed the ingredient's quick absorption and retention rates. The study's findings were presented at the American College of Nutrition conference held last week in Orlando, FL.The clinical trial is the second double-blind, randomized crossover clinical trial performed on Fast-C. The first trial took place in 2007 and likewise showed Fast-C's significantly faster vitamin C absorption time and retention. The newest double-blind, randomized crossover study enrolled 10 nonsmoking male subjects. Results showed a significantly faster rise of vitamin C in the blood following consumption of Fast-C. The ingredient's bioavailability was compared with a leading vitamin C formulation at a 1000-mg single dose. Moreover, despite the faster entry of vitamin C in the blood, retention rates by body tissues were found to be comparatively better based on urinary excretion. The trial was conducted at Miami Research Associates, a U.S.-based pharmaceutical and nutrition research lab that employs Good Clinical Practices. The lab also conducted the 2007 test on Fast-C. Patent-pending Fast-C was developed by Scientific Food Solutions. It is distributed by E.T. Horn, in partnership with Alkemy Partners LLC. The ingredient provides a buffered and 90%+ acid-neutralized vitamin C. |
| published date: 10-06-2009 |
One-Third of Lipoic Acid Supplements Fail Quality Test, ConsumerLab.com ReportsIn a recent ConsumerLab.com evaluation of alpha-lipoic acid supplements, only two-thirds of the brands tested passed quality review.Lipoic acid is a natural antioxidant that can help diabetics control blood sugar and reduce symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. In its tests on various brands of lipoic acid supplements, ConsumerLab.com found that two brands' supplements contained less lipoic acid than was promised on their product labels. A third product was called out for making FDA drug-classified claims. The other seven lipoic acid supplements tested by ConsumerLab.com did meet quality standards, as did five other products that passed ConsumerLab.com's voluntary certification testing. None of the products tested exceeded contamination limits for lead. ConsumerLab.com's latest report specifies which lipoic acid supplements failed testing, as well as which passed. For more information, visit www.consumerlab.com. |
| published date: 10-06-2009 |
Grain Processing Corporation to Unveil New Fiber and Maltodextrin ProductsGrain Processing Corporation (GPC; Muscatine, IA) will showcase brand new products at the upcoming SupplySide West 2009 tradeshow in November.The company will present its TruBran oat fiber in a breakfast cookie. TruBran products offer high fiber sources in a variety of snacks, cereals, baked goods, and other applications. In addition to GPC’s fiber-fortified products, the company will also feature an organic chewable tablet base made with Maltrin OR organic rice maltodextrin and rice syrup solids. The formula is intended to serve as a binder with smooth mouthfeel and sweetness control. These new additions are USDA and Quality Assurance International (QAI) certified organic. GPC’s Maltrin products can be used in various applications, including nutritional beverages and infant formulas. Quick-dispersing versions are also available. GPC will be at SupplySide West 2009 in booth #24014. For more information, go to www.grainprocessing.com. |
| published date: 09-30-2009 |
CRN Responds to Senate Subcommittee Hearing on Hidden SteroidsIn response to Tuesday’s Senate Subcommittee on Crime and Drugs hearing, “Body Building Products and Hidden Steroids: Enforcement Barriers,” the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) released a statement detailing its position on products containing anabolic steroids and sold as dietary supplements.CRN maintains its position that “Rogue products that contain anabolic steroids are not dietary supplements, regardless of how the bad actors who manufacture and market these products might position them—they are illegal, unapproved new drugs.” CRN cites various federal regulatory powers granted to FDA (Rockville, MD) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA; Alexandria, VA) to allow these agencies to actively regulate and enforce penalties upon companies marketing products containing unapproved substances. For example, for a substance to enter the dietary supplement market, CRN cites the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), which requires that new dietary ingredients (NDIs) submit to an NDI notification process before being allowed to enter the market. A product that doesn’t submit to this process would be considered adulterated. Regarding FDA’s ability to control the flow of unapproved products into the consumer marketplace, CRN says, “Enforcement tools available to FDA include seizure of products, and fines and criminal sanctions against companies that ignore the law—FDA just needs the resources and the political will to use them.” Much of the Senate hearing focused on evaluating the effectiveness of current law enforcement on all “bad actors” in the dietary supplement industry. The hearing was led by Senate Subcommittee on Crime and Drugs chairman Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania. |
| published date: 09-29-2009 |
U.S. Omega Opens Business with Fish Oil SoftgelsFish oil distributor U.S. Omega, Inc. (U.S. Omega; Santa Ana, CA) began operations today with an official press release. The Southern California-based company has launched its premier product, Omega 3 Fish Oil 1000 mg softgels, which will available in retail stores and for medical practitioners in retail-ready bottles or in bulk.The company's mission is to provide "the most popular and important nutritional products" without the standard high prices, according to managing director Herrie Tantono. "Our plan is to take advantage of additional opportunities where value can be extracted from the traditional distribution chain...Given the current economic environment, it is imperative that our industry offer customers the best possible value in nutritional supplements." U.S. Omega has established partnerships in South America for fish oil supply and in the U.S. for encapsulation. For more information, visit www.US-Omega.com. |
| published date: 09-24-2009 |
White House Unveils New Food Safety Website at www.foodsafety.govThis week, HHS (Washington, DC) secretary Kathleen Sebelius and USDA (Washington, DC) secretary Tom Vilsack, announced the launch of a new government website at www.foodsafety.gov, according to the news agency Reuters.This website is a development of the White House’s Food Safety Working Group, which Sebelius and Vilsack are co-chairs of. The site will provide consumers and businesses with up-to-date information regarding food product recalls with the ability to receive information through email and phone alerts. The site will also provide advice on how to safely handle foods, and contact information for reporting adverse events related to food. Contact information for reporting food poisoning incidents and other adverse events will be categorized by food types for consumer ease. “Those reports of illness can help us identify potential outbreaks sooner and strengthen our efforts to protect Americans from unsafe food and food-borne illness,” said Tom Frieden, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC; Atlanta), in an interview with Reuters. The site’s overall intention is to provide consumers with a gateway of food safety information from several leading health organizations, including FDA, CDC, and USDA. |
| published date: 09-11-2009 |
FDA IssuesWisdom Natural Brands(Gilbert, AZ) received a “no questions” letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in which an FDA expert panel of scientists granted Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status to the whole leaf steviol glycosides (with rebaudioside A and stevioside) in the company’s SweetLeaf Sweetener® extract. SweetLeaf Sweetener is Wisdom’s all-natural, zero-calorie, zero-carb and zero-glycemic index stevia sweetener."It is a tremendous victory for Wisdom Natural Brands and SweetLeaf Sweetener," said Wisdom’s founder, Jim May. "Scientists spent more than a year conducting extensive research to assure the safety and quality of our sweetener extract and today’s letter from the FDA authenticates what science has already proven – SweetLeaf Stevia’s high-intensity sweetener extract is a safe and pure alternative to sugar for consumers and food and beverage companies across the globe." According to May, SweetLeaf Sweetener does not contain chemically altered glycosides. Instead, SweetLeaf Sweetener is produced by isolating and extracting the four sweetest glycosides produced naturally within the stevia leaf, resulting in a purer, sweeter-tasting stevia extract that does not require masking agents or other flavoring compounds. According to Wisdom Natural Brands, SweetLeaf Sweetener is made entirely with high grade stevia leaves in a proprietary cool, purified water filtration process. No chemicals or alcohols ever touch the stevia leaves and no chemical residues are found in the extract or products made from it. "It is the only truly 100% natural stevia sweetener available," said May. "And the entire extraction process supports natural and sustainability principles. The leftover leaf material is used to nourish livestock and the post-extraction water is saved and then trucked to agricultural fields to enrich the soil and growing fruits and vegetables. Even our tabletop sweetener packet box is made from 100% recycled material as part of our commitment." SweetLeaf received GRAS status in March, 2008, when GRAS Associates, an independent panel of scientists, awarded SweetLeaf stevia GRAS status pursuant to FDA regulations. FDA regulations allow companies to independently determine by qualified food science experts, through a self-affirmation process, that an ingredient is generally recognized as safe. Wisdom obtained a concurring opinion from the Life Science Research Office, which independently agreed with GRAS Associates’ original findings. Wisdom submitted their GRAS notification to the FDA in February, 2009. The submission created two separate and distinct panels of scientists to determine the GRAS status of a product independently of one another and of the company making the product. For more information on Wisdom Natural Brands™, please visit www.WisdomNaturalBrands.com or www.SweetLeaf.com |
| published date: 09-02-2009 |
New Dossier Published For Lactium Stress Relief IngredientA new dossier has been released for the product Lactium, according to its exclusive international distributor Pharmachem Laboratories (Pharmachem; Kearny, NJ). Lactium is a milk casein hydrolysate that has been studied for its relaxing properties."The dossier contains all the available research and application studies on Lactium, and is the most comprehensive technical document developed for the ingredient to date," said Mitch Skop, director of new product development for Pharmachem. Lactium works by regulating stress symptoms in the digestive and cardiovascular systems. It has achieved Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status and clinical trials have shown that its use comes without side effects. Lactium can be applied to the human diet as a supplement and a functional food ingredient. The full dossier can be viewed at www.lactiumusa.com. |
| published date: 08-25-2009 |
ConsumerLab.com Finds Natural Vitamin E Products to be SyntheticIn a review of various natural vitamin E products, ConsumerLab.com (White Plains, NY) found "virtually all" of two products to be composed of synthetic vitamin E. The report by ConsumerLab states that natural vitamin E is more expensive than the synthetic option.Additionally, one product fell short of its claimed amount of vitamin E and one product's tablet took 128 minutes to break down. United States Pharmacopoeia (Rockville, MD) requires that a tablet must break down in 30 minutes or less for proper absorption. ConsumerLab president Tod Cooperman, M.D, advises consumers of how to find the right vitamin E supplement that is as natural as it claims. If you want natural vitamin E... at a minimum, look for a product that lists 'd-alpha tocopherol' (or 'd-alpha tocopheryl') in the ingredient area," says Cooperman. "Not just the word 'natural.'" The full report can be viewed by subscribers at www.consumerlab.com/reviews/Vitamin_E_Supplements_and_Skin_Care_Products/vitamine/ -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 08-04-2009 |
Study Shows Aloe Vera Fights CavitiesA new study on aloe vera gel confirms that aloe vera can be used in tooth gel to soothe tooth pain and control mouth bacteria, reports Examiner.com. The study, published in the May/June 2009 issue of General Dentistry, compared aloe vera gels to other commercial brand toothpastes and found that aloe vera can be an effective alternative for treating mouth bacteria.Some manufacturing factors, like heating, can make the gel ineffective; for this reason, gels certified by the International Aloe Science Council (Silver Spring, MD) are recommended for their purity and quality. "Thankfully, consumers with sensitive teeth or gums have a number of choices when it comes to their oral health, and aloe vera is one of them," said Academy of General Dentistry (Chicago) spokesperson Eric Shapria, MS. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-20-2009 |
Finnish Study Suggests Probiotic Cultures for Treatment of Birch AllergiesFor those who suffer from birch pollen allergies, a recent study conducted in Finland may provide new information, according to Danisco Health & Nutrition (Danisco; Copenhagen). Researchers from Turku University Hospital and Turku University (Turku, Finland), and Danisco tested the effects of a dose of two probiotic cultures on children diagnosed with birch allergies.The study, published in World Journal of Gastroenterology, used 47 children between the ages of 4 and 13 and found an importance related specifically to the ratio of probiotics used. Previous studies have combined probiotic strains at a ratio of 1:1. The innovative aspect of our study was that we used an adapted ratio in an attempt to find the right probiotic mix, said Dr. Arthur Ouwehand, lead researcher for Danisco. These new findings are promising for probiotics as a possible alternative to antihistamines, which can cause various side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth. Danisco's full press release can be read at www.danisco.com/cms/connect/corporate/media%20relations/news/archive/2009/july/businessupdate_300_en.htm. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-20-2009 |
Haloteco Announces Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Libipower PlusEarlier this week, manufacturer Haloteco (Los Angeles) announced a voluntary nationwide recall of its product Libipower Plus, according to FDA (Rockville, MD). The recall came when FDA reported finding tadalalafil in lab analysis of product samples.Tadalalafil is the active ingredient in FDA-approved drugs prescribed for erectile dysfunction that may cause various dangerous side effects like low blood pressure and interaction with nitrates found in certain prescription drugs. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-16-2009 |
LiveTheSource Introduces Nano-Encapsulated Liquid Vitamin, Mineral, and Herbal SupplementThe new company LiveTheSource (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) has announced its launch of "daily source," the first ever nano-encapsulated liquid vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplement. The company claims the herbal compounds in daily source will "provide a substantial increase in nutritional value, first, due to their synergy, and second, due to their nano-encapsulation."LiveTheSource also announces its new president and COO John Neubauer, former COO of Herbalife (Los Angeles). -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-15-2009 |
FDA Releases Final Guidance on Serious Adverse Event ReportingFDA (Rockville, MD) announced in today's Federal Register the release of its final draft of "Guidance for Industry: Questions and Answers Regarding Adverse Event Reporting and Recordkeeping for Dietary Supplements as Required by the Dietary Supplement and Nonprescription Drug Consumer Protection Act," according to the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA; Silver Spring, MD).FDA's final guidance concerns the required submission of written reports to FDA within 15 days by any "responsible person," typically a product marketer, whose product has received report of a serious adverse event. These regulations took full effect in December 2007. An earlier draft of the guidance was issued in October 2007, and AHPA submitted comments in response to it. The final guidance shows evidence that several of AHPA's comments, including concern with interpretation of official language, were considered and even incorporated into the language of the documents. FDA's final guidance can be read here: www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/GuidanceDocuments/DietarySupplements/ucm171383.htm AHPA's 2007 comments can be read here: www.ahpa.org/Portals/0/pdfs/07_1214_AHPAcomments_DS-SAER.pdf -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-14-2009 |
Three Manufacturers Fail to Meet GMP Standards; FDA IntervenesFDA has requested a court order be issued on Quality Formulation Laboratories, American Sports Nutrition Inc., Sports Nutrition International LLC (Paterson, NJ), and Mohamed S. Desoky, the overseer of operations at all three companies.The complaint, filed July 1 by the US Department of Justice (Washington, DC) on behalf of FDA, alleges that each of the companies failed to improve its "filthy" conditions of product manufacturing and storing after three investigations. FDA alleges that the companies did not meet GMP standards. Major food allergens in products were not labeled and evidence of live and dead rodents was found. "This company has consistently failed to correct filthy conditions in their plants and to make sure that allergens are appropriately declared on the labels, despite frequent warnings to do so," said Michael Chappell, FDA's associate commissioner for regulatory affairs. "The FDA will not tolerate companies that fail to provide adequate safeguards." -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-13-2009 |
European Food Safety Authority Urges Higher Omega-3 Levels for Recommended Daily IntakeThe European Food Safety Authority (EFSA; Parma, Italy) has suggested new levels of recommended daily consumption of omega-3s to the European Commission (EC; Brussels).EFSAs Panel on Diabetic Products, Nutrition, and Allergies (NDA) issued a recommendation to EC, stating that 250 mg of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids be the minimum level required in products claiming to contain or be high in omega-3s. This intake value is an increase of ECs previously-suggested value of 200 mg. NDAs recommendation also includes daily standards for short-chain fatty acids at 2 mg (the same level suggested by EC) and omega-6s at 10mg. Cassie France-Kelley, public relations manager at Martek Biosciences (Columbia, MD), stressed her optimism with NutraIngredients.com While there may be some confusion about how much omega-3 should be included in the daily diet for optimal health, the EFSA proposal will establish minimum levels acceptable for inclusion in food products in order to make specific labelling claims, she said. This is a step in the right direction and will serve to minimise industry and consumer confusion. EC is due to consider NDAs recommendation this Wednesday. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-13-2009 |
Gaia Herbs Announces Membership in United Natural Products AllianceGaia Herbs (Gaia; Brevard, NC) announces today that it is now a member of the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA; Salt Lake City). Gaia is a grower and manufacturer of natural and organic herbal products and its new membership with UNPA assures proper implementation and enforcement of DSHEA by UNPAs multinational standards.-Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-13-2009 |
CRN Questions Health Advocacy Group over Selenium ClaimsThe Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI; Washington, DC) issued a press release on June 29 alleging that selenium intake may increase several health risks. These claims have motivated an adverse response from the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC).CSPI alleges that selenium intake may pose health risks to men suffering from prostate cancer, and that selenium may cause increased risks of diabetes and hypertension. But CRN insisted in a July 7 press release that the studies referenced by CSPI do not support such claims. The fact is that the researchers involved in the SELECT trial have themselves been very careful to state that any increased risk of diabetes that might have been associated with the SELECT trial was not statistically significant and may have been due to chance, says CRN. Accor finds fault in CSPIs reference to a study published in this Junes Journal of Clinical Oncology, where researchers admitted to certain limitations in the study. To state, as CSPI does, that studies suggest selenium leads to increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer isinaccurate, says CRN. As with the SELECT trial, these researchers stated, this finding may be a result of chance and warrants further confirmation in humans. To read the CSPI press release, visit www.cspinet.org/new/200906291.html To read the CRN press release, visit www.crnusa.org/CRNPR09RespondstoCSPIAllegations070709.html -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-09-2009 |
BENEO-Group Sees Increase in Clients with New EU Regulations ApproachingWith the European Unions (EU) upcoming nutrient profile regulations, BENEO-Group (Morris Plains, NJ) is reporting an increase in prospective clients. BENEO-Group anticipates advising many food producers on how to meet new EU criteria regarding improved labeling, packaging, and wording on food products.The impending EU standards are meant to encourage consumers to adopt healthy diets. Products will now include quantities of certain nutrients and substances, along with their importance to the human diet. BENEO-Group plans to properly advise its clients on new branding strategies that will allow them to conform to what they call a new era of nutrition and health claims. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-07-2009 |
EFSA Negates Future Health Claims for ProbioticsThe European Food Safety Authority (EFSA; Parma, Italy) has no displayed interest in drafting health claims for probiotics, according to accounts from EFSAs June 15 health claims summit reported by NutraIngredients.com.One hundred and twenty representatives of the probiotics industry met in Brussels for a Q&A session which was the first opportunity for industry leaders to meet with EFSA since the organization enacted new health claims regulations three years ago. EFSA responded negatively when asked if it would draft guidance for probiotics like those recently produced by the Canadian regulatory authority. The Canadian regulatory authority released health claims guidance for safety, quality, and labeling aspects of foods containing probiotics. EFSA has not issued health claims on any food groups. Full disclosure of questions and answers posed at the EFSA summit has not been made public, but EFSA reportedly told NutraIngredients.com on July 2 that it would publish an overview and report on the meeting in autumn. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-07-2009 |
Swedish Researchers Link Fish Consumption to Improved IntelligenceResearchers in Sweden may have discovered a connection between fish consumption and higher intelligence scores among teenage males, according to omega-3 ingredient supplier Ocean Nutrition Canada (ONC; Dartmouth, NS).The study, published in the journal Acta Paediatrica, sampled nearly 4000 Swedish teenage males at age 15 to see if various intelligence scores could be influenced by fish consumption at the age of 18. Each patient submitted responses about their weekly consumption of fish. According to the study, those who claimed to eat fish at least once a week scored an average of 7% higher in combined intelligence tests than those who did not eat fish at least once a week. The teenagers who claimed to eat fish more than once a week averaged test scores 11% higher than those who did not eat fish at least once a week. ONC chief sales and marketing officer Jon Getzinger attributes these test results to the consumption of omega-3 EPA/DHA found in oily fish, omega-3 dietary supplements, and omega-3 fortified foods. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-06-2009 |
China Implements New Food Safety LawFood producers in China are now operating under closer scrutiny due to new quality control and safety regulations, reports European Advisory Services (EAS; Brussels). New legislation applied last month includes a range of regulation procedures including new monitoring and reporting processes, stricter inspections and a farm-to-fork approach for overseeing all chains of production in the food industry.In the wake of recent food scares in China, this new oversight aims at acting as increased liability for food producers. There have been a series of food safety scandals in recent years in China that have seriously undermined consumer confidence, and the new law aims to restore confidence from domestic consumers and international trade partners on the safety of the food products made in China, said EAS Asia advisor Jie Hu. The development of the law is a significant step, and improving food safety issues in China will be a long-term process. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-02-2009 |
Central Coast Nutraceuticals Fined $1.3 MillionSupplements firm Central Coast Nutraceuticals (CCN; Phoenix) has been fined $1,375,000 for alleged deceptive online marketing practices in a State of Arizona consumer fraud lawsuit.The lawsuit was enacted by Arizona attorney general Terry Goddard after he received hundreds of complaints from consumers who made online CCN purchases of risk-free trial offers for health supplements. Consumers complained of being charged for additional products that were pre-selected in the order process for the risk-free trial offers. Consumers also claimed they did not receive responses to their emails and that they were put on telephone holds for over an hour. Resulting from the lawsuit, CCN must now warn its consumers of the consequences of purchasing CCN trial products. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-02-2009 |
Naturex Earns Spot on Sustainable Businesses ListNatural ingredients supplier Naturex (Avignon, France) announced today that it has earned a spot on the 2009 SB20 List of sustainable businesses. The SB20 List, presented by SustainableBusiness.com, annually recognizes 20 international companies leading in sustainable and environmentally-conscious business practices.Naturex is a multinational supplier and manufacturer of products for food, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic industries. Naturex was selected for this years SB20 List in the sustainable food category because it produces products from plant extracts, replacing chemical ingredients, says Rona Fried, PhD, CEO, of SustainableBusiness.com. Besides being plant-based, its flavorings, colorings, antioxidants and preservatives are GMO-free and not tested on animals, providing a much healthier and environmentally responsible alternative for the food industry. Such ingredients are found throughout the food industry; therefore Naturex has the potential to make an important contribution on a large scale. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-01-2009 |
Cerilliant Introduces Certified Reference Standards for SteviaCerilliant (Round Rock, TX), a producer and provider of certified reference standards and materials, announced the introduction of two new certified reference standards today, Rebaudioside A (Reb-A) and multi-component Rebaudioside-A Impurities.These new reference standards will enable producers of Reb-A, a natural sweetener derived from stevia, to meet FDA guidelines for Reb-A ingredients and to attain a consistent flavor profile in the sweetener. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-01-2009 |
Fuji Chemical Focused on AstaxanthinResearchers at Fuji Chemical Industry (Fuji; Toyama, Japan) are researching the supplement AstaREAL astaxanthin for its potential to cure asthenopia, commonly known as eye fatigue, reports its U.S. subsidiary Fuji Health Science (Burlington, NJ).Astaxanthin is a natural antioxidant that can be abundantly found in the freshwater microalgae, Haematococcus pluvialis. Fuji scientists believe it can reduce cellular inflammation and improve capillary blood flow for the lens of the eye. The company has sponsored eleven human studies with astaxanthin on patients with symptoms of asthenopia. Fuji also cultivates astaxanthin at locations in Hawaii and Sweden. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 07-01-2009 |
Gluten Identified as Culprit of Unusual Celiac DiseaseResearchers at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) have determined that celiac disease is four times more common today than it was in the 1950s, according to a Mayo Clinic study published in the June issue of Gastroenterology.Celiac disease occurs when gluten from wheat, barley, or protein causes an attack on the immune system and nutrient-absorbing villi in the small intestine become damaged. Symptoms of celiac disease include diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and weight loss. Since these symptoms are typically associated with other more common diseases, celiac disease can be misidentified. A Mayo Clinic study conducted from 1948 to 1954 at Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming tested blood samples for the antibody produced in celiac disease. A follow-up of 45 years determined that patients who had celiac disease had a mortality rate four times higher than those patients who were celiac-free. The Mayo Clinic recently conducted two similar blood test sets in Olmsted County, MN. One set was taken from patients matching the birth years of those from the Warren study, and the other with patients matching the ages of the Warren patients at the time of the Warren study. Results indicate that younger people are 4.5 times more likely to have celiac disease, and people as old as the Warren participants are four times more likely to have celiac disease. "Something has changed in our environment to make [celiac disease] much more common, says Joseph Murray, MD, the lead researcher in the recent studies. Until recently, the standard approach to finding celiac disease has been to wait for people to complain of symptoms and to come to the doctor for investigation. This study suggests that we may need to consider looking for celiac disease in the general population, more like we do in testing for cholesterol or blood pressure." |
| published date: 06-30-2009 |
Harvard Report: Two Nutrients are Better than OneNew research suggests that some of the daily nutrients we seek are actually influenced by other nutrients, according to reports in Julys Harvard Health Letter.The reports suggest that certain nutrient levels in our bodies can be increased and decreased by other nutrients. Calcium absorption is said to be assisted by high levels of vitamin D. When sodium levels are too high in the kidneys, potassium can encourage sodium excretion. Vitamin B12 is also cited for its ability to help folate be absorbed, stored, and metabolized, the report says. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-30-2009 |
Fusion Formulations Quadruples Liquid Manufacturing OutputFusion Formulations (Fusion; Phoenix) has announced an estimated quadrupling of its capacity for liquid manufacturing as a result of recent investments in production equipment that will create higher and faster output of products.The investments include new Phase Fire heat tunnels and an Axon applicator machine which will yield a fully-automated shrink-labeling process for sleeve labels on any bottle shape. Additionally, a new FTNIR analytical testing instrument will expedite raw material analysis from two weeks to two days. Thanks to this new equipment, Fusion claims it will be able to increase its daily output from 6000 bottles per day to 22,000 bottles per day. Fusion is a GMP-certified manufacturer working with nutraceutical beverages, vitamin and mineral capsules and powders, and other nutraceutical products. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-29-2009 |
Chemi SpA Passes Inspection of Enhanced Brazilian FacilityChemi SpA (Chemi; Milan, Italy) has announced that its manufacturing facility, ITF Chemical Ltda, (ITF; Camacari, Bahia, Brazil) has been granted acceptable status after an inspection was conducted by HHS (Washington, DC) on its construction of new R&D and QC facilities.ITF, which specializes in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients and nutraceutical ingredients, was notified of the new status on June 16. Its new facilities come as a result of increased production of SerinAid PhosphatidylSerine (PS), which is known in the United States as a product used to enhance skills like memory, concentration, and exercise performance. PS is supplied to the United States through Chemis U.S. supplier, Chemi Nutra (White Bear Lake, MN). -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-29-2009 |
Cracking the Mystery of QuercetinA recent study on the effects of quercetin proves the plant pigment found in red wine and apples is still of scientific interest. Previously researched for its potential to treat health conditions like cancer or child asthma, quercetin is now being evaluated as a potential athletic performance booster, according to U.S. News & World Report.The International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise metabolism published a study this week that tested the effect quercetin had on cycling performance for 12 patients over seven days. Some performance results (notably endurance times) leaned in favor of those patients who took quercetin, but there is still speculation surrounding its use. The American Cancer Society states that there is no reliable proof that quercetin can treat or prevent cancer. ConsumerLab.com, involved in a 1999 study of the supplement, acknowledges that it may be helpful for chronic non-bacterial prostatitis, but that it should be avoided by pregnant women and in high doses. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-26-2009 |
Government to Fund Huge Vitamin D StudyIn 2010, Boston will be home to a $20 million study on the effects vitamin D and fish oil have in reducing the risks of cancer and cardiovascular disease in humans, reports the Boston Globe. The project is being funded by NIH (Bethesda, MD), and will enroll 20,000 patients starting January of next year.The intentions of the study are to analyze how vitamin D affects the average person, and specifically how it affects African American. Darker skin does prevent significant vitamin D absorption from the sun, so a quarter of the studys patients will be black to evaluate this factor. African Americans have a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency and a greater frequency of certain types of cancer, said JoAnn Manson, MD, a lead researcher for the study. I think that it will be of great importance to look at whether something as simple as taking a vitamin D supplement can narrow these health gaps. The study will use women over 65 and men over 60, all with no history of cancer or cardiovascular disease. Patients will be separated into four groupsone given pills of vitamin D and fish oil, one given placebos, and the other two given one placebo and one supplement. More information on the study can be found at www.vitalstudy.org. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-26-2009 |
UN Making Food Safer; Smaller Companies Feel at RiskA new United Nations report may have some small food companies feeling left in the cold. The World Health Organization (WHO; Geneva) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO; Rome) wrote a report that warns of the adverse effects that may occur impending food safety standards put on smaller companies.The report says that processors and exporters have found it difficult to deal with new and overlapping requirements, with smaller companies having neither the time nor the infrastructure to compete with their richer, more-able counterparts. The report comes in response to recent U.S. and world food scares involving pistachios, peanuts, and alfalfa sprouts, says the Reuters report. The report is scheduled to be released next week at a Codex Alimentarius Commission (CODEX, Rome) meeting. CODEX is a joint body of WHO and FAO that establishes international food safety standards. Various new safety standards of both a regulatory and private nature are expected to impose problems on smaller food companies, especially those in poorer nations, according the report. "To the extent that there are economies of scale in compliance and/or larger firms are better able to access finance and other resources, compliance processes are likely to induce processes of consolidation and concentration," said the study. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-25-2009 |
Survey Says Grocery Shoppers are WaryIBM (Armonk, NY) has released a survey indicating significant levels of consumer anxiety in the U.S. surrounding grocery shopping, reports MediaPost News. The survey sampled 1000 Americans who claim to shop for groceries at least once a month.Among many notable statistics, the survey concluded that less than 20% of adult shoppers trust their food companies to produce safe and healthy products. Out of those surveyed, 60% claimed to feel concerned about the foods they purchase with 77% wanting more information about their foods' contents. Recent nationwide product recalls may provide this survey with more relevance as 83% of those surveyed were able to name a food product recalled in the past two years. IBM has not been identified as the studys sponsor. |
| published date: 06-25-2009 |
Redpoint Developing a Sweet AlternativeThe biotechnology company Redpoint (Ewing, NJ) has announced that it has developed a new all-natural sweetener, RP44. Redpoint claims RP44 demonstrated enhancement results with common sweeteners, including sucrose, fructose, and high-fructose corn syrup. The independent laboratory that conducted taste tests with RP44 also found that the sweetener enables reduction of up to 25% of the caloric sweetener content in product prototypes, according to Redpoint.Redpoint CEO Ray Salemme has publicized strong interest in further development and marketing of RP44. We believe that the development of an all-natural sweetness enhancercan permit the development of new food and beverage products that require reduced amounts of [highly caloric] sweeteners, said Salemme. In addition, RP44 has the potential to reduce overall ingredient costs for manufacturers, along with creating healthier products for consumers due to lower calorie content. According to Redpoint, they expect to develop RP44 by obtaining GRAS status. Ultimately they hope to market the product with food and beverage companies. As a result of research into healthier approaches to food, the company has vested much research into RP44, they said. If proven successful, the sweetener may give stevia a run for its money in the natural sweetener product aisle. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-24-2009 |
Moving and Shaking the Produce IndustryThe United Fresh Produce Association (United Fresh; Washington, DC) is urging member companies and the produce sector at large to enact change in what United Fresh thinks can be a transformative year in the industry.Citing the recent House approval in Congress of the Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009, United Fresh is pursuing industry activism with high hopes in its recent news. More than ever before, it s important that members of the produce industry actively engage with lawmakers on legislation that would both maximize public health and rebuild consumer confidence in our food safety system, says United Fresh president and CEO Tom Stenzel. Stenzel suggests this Septembers Washington Public Policy Conference, where 350 industry leaders will meet with policy makers, as an opportunity for groundbreaking legislation around issues like child nutrition and food safety. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-24-2009 |
DSM and Lonza Renew Partnership in SwitzerlandDSM (Basel, Switzerland) and Lonza (Basel, Switzerland) have announced an extension of their partnership in Swiss production facilities in the districts of Visp and Lalden, the companies announced today.The two companies have collaborated for over 40 years. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-22-2009 |
USADA Advocates State Action on DopingIn a conference with attorneys general on June 18, USADA (Colorado Springs, CO) CEO Travis Tygart called for state-level action in dealing with steroid contamination in supplements, according to the Associated Press.Statistics related to high steroid contamination in consumer supplements were cited at the conference. Tygart urged attorneys general to use state consumer protection laws to influence federal government interest in steroid use. A possible avenue could be recovering government-paid health care costs for the treatment of people that have become ill from tainted supplements. "We're a complaint-driven organization and I have to admit, we're not getting a high number of complaints at our office about mislabeled substances," said Colorado Attorney General John Suthers. "Whether we can muster the will to do something about it, I don't know. But it's a serious issue and I think we've got to look at it." -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-22-2009 |
USDA Commits $176 Million to Priority LabsAgriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced the distribution of $176 million in Recovery Act funding to research laboratories in 29 states, according to the Agricultural Research Service (ARS; Washington, DC). ARS states that the funding will help improve research facilities of the highest priority. The funding will go towards improving safety and health aspects, energy efficiency, and reduced operation and maintenance costs of each facility.Vilsack says the funding shows President Obamas commitment to ensuring that USDA (Washington, DC) stays on the cutting edge of research in food safety, nutrition, producing food, and preserving the quality of our soil and water, according to ARS. These investments are expected to support continuing scientific research, create new jobs, and help sustain local businesses that conduct business with the labs. For a list of the selected research projects, visit www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-19-2009 |
BASF Increases Costs of Styropor and Neopor, AgainEffective June 15, 2009, chemical company BASF (Florham Park, NJ) will charge an increase of 5 cents per pound on all of its grades of Styropor and Neopor expandable polystyrene. The price hike follows a previous increase which went into effect this month.-Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-19-2009 |
Nestl Recalls Cookie Dough as Consumers Fall IllA nationwide recall of all Toll House cookie dough products has been announced due to the risk of E. coli infection, according to Nestl USA (Nestl; Glendale, CA).While Nestl states that it has not detected E. coli in its product, FDA (Rockville, MD) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC; Atlanta) have released an official warning to consumers not to eat the refrigerated cookie dough. Since March 2009, 66 cases of illness have been reported to FDA from 28 states, with 25 people hospitalized and seven having developed a complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). No fatalities have been reported. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-19-2009 |
Surprise Bacterium Causes Disease in TurkeysAgricultural Research Service (ARS; Washington, DC) scientists have discovered that an avian bacterium, Bordetella hinzii, has been doing more damage to turkeys than previously assumed.DNA tests at ARS National Animal Disease Center (NADC; Ames, IA) have concluded that B. hinzii caused respiratory disease in a sample of turkey isolates. The finding came after NADC scientists realized that infected turkeys had been mislabeled as carrying another Bordetella species, B. avium. The confusion is attributed to the difficulty in distinguishing B. avium from B. hinzii. Results of the tests are published in the March 2009 issue of Avian Diseases. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-18-2009 |
New Study Suggests Rise in Organic SalesAccording to a study by the Organic Trade Association (OTA; Greenfield, MA) and Kiwi Magazine, families in the United States are now spending significantly more money on organic products than in years past. The study, to be released this week, examined the consumer behaviors of 1200 families surrounding organic food purchases. Among several key findings, nearly three-quarters of the families sampled claimed they purchase organic products at least occasionally.For more information, visit OTAs website at www.ota.com. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-17-2009 |
FDA Drafts Reportable Food Registry for CommentIn response to section 1005 of the Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act of 2007, FDA (Rockville, MD) has drafted its Reportable Food Registry (RFR).RFR now requires a responsible party to file a report through an FDA internet portal whenever a food or dietary supplement regulated by FDA poses a threat of causing serious adverse health consequences or death to humans or animals. A responsible party is any person who submits registration information to FDA from a food facility that manufactures, processes, packs, or holds food for human or animal consumption in the United States. The draft for RFR details who is responsible for submitting reports, when and where reports must be submitted, and what information must be provided in the reports and through the food supply chain. Implementation of RFR is scheduled for September 8, 2009 and may also be accessed by federal, state, and local officials for reporting information on adulterated foods. The draft can be read at: www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/GuidanceDocuments/default.htm or www.regulations.gov. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-17-2009 |
ChemNutra Pleads Guilty in Toxic Pet Food CaseMatt J. Whitworth, acting U.S Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced today that Sally Qing Miller and Stephen S. Miller, owners of pet food supplier ChemNutra, Inc. (Las Vegas), have pleaded guilty on federal charges for selling adulterated and misbranded pet food.ChemNutra was indicted on February 6, 2008 over several shipments of toxic wheat gluten that were distributed between November 6, 2006 and February 21, 2007 for use in various brands of pet food. The shipments, which were imported from China, all contained the unsafe contaminant, melamine. This culminated in a nationwide pet food recall, and the deaths of thousands of cats and dogs. FDA consumer reports claim that 1950 cats and 2200 dogs died from eating the contaminated products. Sentencing and fine hearings will be scheduled after all presentence investigations are carried out by the U.S. probation office. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-17-2009 |
Clean Label Products as a Modern Selling PointRising consumer interest in eco-friendly productsnot to mention recent food scaresis encouraging food manufacturers to take on more natural approaches when it comes to selling products. From ingredients used, to locations and methods of manufacturing and distributing, a cleaner image is becoming increasingly significant.BENEO-Remy (Wijgmaal, Belgium), a producer of rice-based ingredients, is taking this trend seriously. Vincent Caluwaerts, sales and marketing manager for BENEO-Remy, says, we have been working closely with leading food and beverage manufacturers to see how our rice derivatives, Remyline (natural waxy rice starch) for example, can best offer innovative solutions. BENEO-Remys approach involves various clean label characteristics, such as oversight of its production sites (i.e. water quality, soil condition, and crop rotation) and relationships with its rice farmers and millers. Such practices demonstrate a variety of ways many manufacturers are attempting to attract consumers with an inclination towards natural products. BENEO-Remys process is used in the making ingredients for baby foods, breakfast cereals, prepared meals, bakery goods, and other products. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-16-2009 |
Dairy Doesnt Spoil in Economic CrisisAs plenty of markets take spills in the midst of international economic downturn, one industry is managing to thrive: the dairy industry.The Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI; Arlington, VA) has released a recent study, "Dairy Industry Market Research Study 2009," in which the industry proves to be making considerable profit. PMMIs study evaluates the perspectives of 34 leading dairy processors, accounting for 68% of the total dairy industry. While some doubt comes with the prospect of raw materials and price fluctuations in the future, the study still bodes well for the industry. The study affirms that, even with a price increase of 9%, dairy product sales have gone up 2% within the last year. U.S. dairy production is expected to move to the West Coast and to centralize in a greater number of mega dairies, according to PMMI. Production methods are also expected to change, with a greater vested interest in energy sustainability. Such cost-effective moves in production would, in effect, make up the projected capital expenditures (expected from 71% of dairy processors) on packaging and machinery investments that will continue as long as dairy is a thriving industry. PMMIs full study can be read at www.pmmi.org. - Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-16-2009 |
The Red Yeast Rice RideA new study in the June 16 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine concluded that nonprescription red yeast rice may have cholesterol-lowering qualities.The study included 62 people who stopped taking statins because of side effects. All of them followed a lifestyle change program, including education on nutrition, exercise and relaxation techniques. Half also took 1,800 mg twice a day of a red yeast rice product for 24 weeks, while the others took a placebo. "In the group that took red yeast rice, the average drop in cholesterol was 43 points at 12 weeks," said Ram Y. Gordon, PhD, a cardiologist in private practice who was a member of the research group. "The drop in the placebo group was only 11 points. In the longer run, the drop was 35 versus 15 points. We think the difference narrowed because after 12 weeks we told people to keep on doing it, but maybe some stopped." There are, however, complications related to the product. Red yeast rice is under a regulatory cloud at the FDA (Rockville, MD) because it contains a natural statin, lovastatin, sold as a prescription drug named Mevacor. FDA moved against several red yeast rice productsnot the one used in the Pennsylvania studyon the grounds that they were unlicensed pharmaceuticals, a move which was upheld after a court tussle. The product used in the study does contain lovastatin, Gordon said, but not enough to explain the reduction seen in the trial. Trial participants took three 600-mg vials of red yeast rice twice a day. "Each vial had one mg of lovastatin. So the total was six mg a day, which is really a tiny amount," Gordon said. "And lovastatin is one of the weaker statins. The cholesterol drop was much more than what you'd expect from that low dose of lovastatin." Some statin-related side effects, such as muscle pain and liver problems, were reported in the study, by two people who took red yeast rice and one who took the inactive substance, "but they were not severe," Gordon said. |
| published date: 06-16-2009 |
Deerland Enzymes Acquires GMP Sport CertificationEnzyme supplier and contract manufacturer Deerland Enzymes (Kennesaw, GA) recently received GMP for Sport certification from NSF International (Ann Arbor, MI).Deerland Enzymes new GMP for Sport is meant to certify that the companys sports products do not contain any banned substances. The Sport Certification was granted in addition to Deerland Enzymes already existing GMP certification, under NSFs dietary supplements certification program, which approves of the companys facility, processes, and ingredient sourcing. -Robby Gardner |
| published date: 06-15-2009 |
EFSA Issues Health Claims AssistanceThe European Food Safety Authority (EFSA; Parma, Italy) has published a Q&A in advance of its stakeholders meeting in Brussels on June 15 to help industry better understand the nutrition and health claims process.Plausibility between dietary effect and development of disease; the importance of human data; careful wording of claims; the inclusion of the full totality of evidence in regard to a proposed claim were all highlighted by the risk assessor in the seven-page document. EFSA stated the importance of accurately demonstrating nutritional and physiological effects with appropriate outcome measures of that claimed effect." The claimed effect needs to be specific enough to be testable and measurable by generally accepted methods, EFSA said. For example, gut health is too general but transit time is specific. In the preparation of an application, a rationale/evidence should be provided that the claimed effect is beneficial in the context of the specific claim as described in the application. Risk factors in relation to the development of disease were singled out with EFSA emphasising that reduced risk factors for particular diseases must be biologically plausible. The risk factor must also be an independent predictor of disease risk, something that can be established via intervention and/or observational studies. For some risk factors, there is strong evidence that they meet both criteria, EFSA said. For example, elevated serum LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD) for which there is strong evidence for the biological basis through which it can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis (one pathway to CHD). EFSAs document reemphasised the importance of targeted studies carried out on the food/constituent in question; the importance of human data; conditions of use; relevant study groups; usable animal models. In addition, it is important that the human studies provided represent all available evidence pertinent to the claim, including evidence that supports the relationship as well as equivocal evidence and evidence of no effect or opposing effects. EFSA said it would propose wording on occasion so that claims matched the available science, but noted it was up to the European Commission to take into account how such wordings may be interpreted by consumers. It said wording must reflect the scientific evidence, complies with criteria established in the regulation and conditions of use are appropriate. The meeting in Brussels next month has been double over-subscribed as industry seeks answers from EFSA before January, 2010, when the process is due for completion. |
| published date: 05-28-2009 |
Herbal Supplement Sales Experience Slight IncreaseAccording to data supplied by IRI of Chicago, Illinois, sales of herbal dietary supplements in the food, drug, and mass market (FDM) channel increased by 7.16% in 2008 from 2007 sales, for a total figure of $289,248,200.Although IRI data does not represent the entire FDM channel, as it does not include sales reports from Wal-Mart, Sams Club, and other large warehouse buying clubs, or from convenience stores. Sales of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon, Ericaceae) supplements, which increased by more than 23% in 2007 from 2006,3 continued to rise in 2008, making cranberry the top-selling herbal supplement product within the FDM channel. |
| published date: 05-19-2009 |
NY Times Columnist Calls Vitamin A Supplements A Cost-Effective and "Simple Fix"In the May 13th edition of The New York Times, columnist Nicholas Kristof paints a very favorable portrait of vitamin A supplements. After visiting a town in northern Guinea, Kristof had this to say about supplementation:"Americans pretty much take vitamin A for granted, but many of the worlds poorest people lack it," he writes. "And as a result, it is estimated that more than half-a-million children die or go blind each year. Theres a simple fix: vitamin A capsules that cost about 2 cents each. "[It has been] have found that vitamin A supplements reduce not only blindness, but also death from diarrhea and other diseases. A review by Unicef and Helen Keller International reports that in areas such as West Africa where many children lack the vitamin, child mortality drops by approximately 23% after vitamin A capsules are distributed to children. "According to the United Nations, half of the children in many African countries are deficient in vitamin A (which comes from liver, mangos, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes and dark, green leafy vegetables), and a disease like measles will quickly deplete their supply further and trigger blindness. The upshot is that vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of child blindness in the world today. Addressing vitamin A deficiency may be the most cost-effective intervention you can implement, he quotes a member of Helen Keller International as saying. To read the full story, click here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/14/opinion/14kristof.html |
| published date: 05-19-2009 |
ZMC and Farbest Extend Beta-Carotene MarketZMC-USA (The Woodlands, TX)and ZMC China have announced a strategic partnership to market ZMCs line of beta carotene products in the United States. Leveraging its national sales and distribution network, Farbest (Montvale, NJ ) will exclusively market these products to the U.S. food and beverage industry. The companies will join forces to market ZMCs beta carotene to the dietary supplement industry, maximizing customer service and penetration. |
| published date: 05-19-2009 |
FDA Seizes $1.5 Million Worth of Food from "Filthy" Supplement Ingredients from WarehouseFDA says federal agents have seized more than $1.5 million worth of herbs, botanicals, and other ingredients used in dietary supplements that were being stored in filthy conditions.U.S. Marshals, acting at the direction of FDA, targeted the American Mercantile Corporation of Memphis, Tenn. An FDA inspection of the facility in March 2009 uncovered evidence of widespread insect and rodent infestation throughout the warehouse. When the company failed to clean up the mess on its own and comply with FDA orders regarding the cleanliness of the facility, the food stored there was seized under a warrant issued by the United States District Court. FDA will not tolerate a companys failure to adequately control and prevent filth in its facility, said Michael Chappell, the FDAs acting associate commissioner for regulatory affairs. The FDA is prepared to use whatever legal means are necessary and appropriate to keep potentially contaminated products out of the marketplace. American Mercantile Corp. stores and processes food ingredients used in dietary supplements and herbal teas made by other companies, FDA said. The products seized include sarsaparilla, spearmint leaves, cornstarch, sweet orange peels powder, licorice powder, sassafras, and salt. |
| published date: 05-14-2009 |
U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Offers New Funding & ContractsThe Organic Trade Association has announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering $50 million in new funding to encourage greater production of organic food in the United States.A portion of the funding has been allocated for every state and is available exclusively through a special signup under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, administered by USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service. To qualify, a producer must be certified through the National Organic Program or be in the process of transitioning to organic production. "The Organic Trade Association is pleased to see this support and recognition from USDA that organic farming practices represent positive environmental practices. OTA believes that this funding will further encourage farmers to use such practices and help increase the U.S. production of organic food to meet growing consumer demand," said Christine Bushway, OTA's executive director. Under the initiative, new contracts for organic production are being offered for six core practices, which include conservation crop rotation, cover crops, nutrient management, pest management, prescribed grazing, and forage harvest management. Funding is capped at $20,000 per year. The sign-up period for the special organic contracts begins May 11 and ends on May 29. |
| published date: 05-14-2009 |
American Companies May Experience Fierce R&D Competition From AsiaWestern-origin brands were found to be leading Asia-based products in terms of research and development, according to joint findings by Global Intelligence Alliance Group (GIA) and analyst Fusion Consulting.The groups tracked 20 multinational food and drink companies. Although the research found companies like Nestle or Danone to be more advanced in pushing innovative products that rivals such as Yakult, there was still strong potential for certain Asian products. There are very strong Asian companies in the food and beverage industry that can compete with Western European and US-based multinationals, stated a Fusion spokesperson. In fact, in some domains like probiotic drinks and instant noodles, Asian companies are way ahead than their European or US-based competitors. In looking at the findings, which were conducted between 2004 and 2007, the consultancy group said that Asia-based companies were in an increasingly strong position to follow the lead of their western counterparts and look to international markets to expand. In the same way that more Westernized companies had worked to distribute and establish their products in Asia, manufacturers in the region were well positioned to increasingly bring their goods to Europe and the US, according to the analyst. Fusion Consultancy said that in order to successfully meet seemingly growing Western demand in Asian food and drink products, customizing products and brand identity to meet local tastes was a key challenge. The challenge on doing this is always the same: customization, stated the analyst. Some companies are very good at it like Unilever, Nestle and Kraft. The GIA index, that focused on three dimensions innovation, regional presence and revenue performance claims that Anglo-Dutch firm Unilever performed best in class thanks to efforts to appoint chefs and food experts in 18 key markets to research and develop new products customized to the local needs and preferences. |
| published date: 05-14-2009 |
Phosphotech and Enzymotec Sign Marketing AgreementPhosphotech (Saint-Herblain Cedex, France) and Enzymotec (Springfield, NJ) have signed a marketing agreement to target the nutraceutical market in FrancePhosphotech specializes in natural ingredient for human and animal health. They will will distribute phosphatidylserine-based products under the Sharp trademark. We expect that the collaboration with Phosphotech will enable us to deepen our penetration into the French market which is one of leading nutraceutical markets in Europe. The collaboration will cover our proprietary phospholipids based line of cognitive solutions under the brand name Sharp. The French nutraceuticals brands have a very strong presence in other European countries and we expect that working closely with leading French companies will further expand our market share in the European market, said Michal Haim-Bravman, Enzymotec's director of sales and marketing. |
| published date: 05-11-2009 |
XSTO Solutions Announces U.S. Distribution of BRUDYS New DHAXSTO Solutions (Morristown, NJ) and Brudy Technology (Barcelona, Spain) have jointly announced a new sales and marketing distribution agreement between the two companies to market Algatrium, Brudys patented source of DHA. Brudys new Algatrium product is naturally produced and clinically tested.Using XSTOS experience and relationships in the nutrition industry, we look forward to expanding the presence of our specialty ingredient line stated Francesc Gass, managing director of Brudy. |
| published date: 05-06-2009 |
Sale of Organic Products Reached $24.6 Billion in 2008The sale of U.S organic products, both food and non-food, reached $24.6 billion by the end of 2008, growing 17.1% over 2007 sales, according to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), which yesterday made available final results from its 2009 Organic Industry Survey."Organic products represent value to consumers, who have shown continued resilience in seeking out these products," said Christine Bushway, OTA's executive director. Results show organic food sales grew in 2008 by 15.8% to reach $22.9 billion, while organic non-food sales grew 39.4% to reach $1.648 billion. As a result, organic food sales now account for approximately 3.5% of all food product sales in the United States, according to OTA. |
| published date: 05-05-2009 |
Danisco Introduces LysoMax EnzymeDanisco (Copenhagen, Denmark) is introducing a new enzyme called LysoMax for vegetable oil refiners. The enzyme is claimed to increase yield during refining, and enable more sustainable use of water and energy.Vegetable oils commonly used in foods, such as soy and oilseed rape, tend to be subject to fluctuations in supply and price on the commodity market. This means that users on the manufacturing side are eager to glean maximum use from their oil. For refiners, however, the challenge is obtaining the maximum amount of oil during the refining process. The Danish firm is presenting a new tool that it says improves the release of vegetable oil from the gum, the viscous mass that is obtained when the crude oil is treated with hot water. Called LysoMax, the enzyme solution is added to the water during the first stage of refining the crudely pressed oil. As well as increasing the yield, the enzyme is said to reduce water use by 50%. The company says the enzyme has no impact on the quality of the oil, and does not require the refiner to invest in any special equipment. |
| published date: 05-05-2009 |
Astaxanthin Launched in Softgel CapsulesThe Israeli company Algatechnologies is launching 4 mg softgel astaxanthin capsules at the Vitafoods trade show in Geneva next week.Usually, we sell our astaxanthin in the form of oleoresin and beadlets to dietary supplement manufacturers, said Efrat Kat, marketing director at Israel-based Algatechnologies. But due to the increase in demand for our high-value AstaPure astaxanthin line from other manufacturers, who cannot produce the necessary initial quantities of softgels themselves, we decided to provide it in capsules as well. She said the company would not sell the capsules direct to consumers, only to business partners and would focus on Europe, the US and also in Asia Pacific. The global astaxanthin market is estimated at about 190m globally, most of which is used in fish coloration. |
| published date: 05-05-2009 |
Capsugel Announces Pre/ Probiotic ComboCapsugel (Peapack, NJ ) has announced the launch of Pre-Pro Combo, which is designed to contain a combination of prebiotic and probiotic ingredients.Utilizing its Moisture Defense System (MDS) design, which includes the use of capsule-in-a-capsule technology, the capsule offers natural products marketers the opportunity to enter the growing probiotic market "with an innovative edge," according to the company. As the awareness of digestive health continues to grow, consumers are looking for nutritional products that can improve their digestive health. Prebiotics and probiotics can work together to improve the ultimate nutritional effectiveness of probiotic ingredients. However, prebiotic regimens are less common because they are new to the market and more difficult to find on store shelves. The Pre-Pro Combo gives manufacturers a distinctive way to efficiently offer consumers additional benefits within one unique product, said Mark Vieceli, marketing manager for Capsugel. The inner capsule of the Pre-Pro Combo contains Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic, which is then suspended in a liquid-based prebiotic formula containing fructo oligosaccharide. Both capsules are composed of plant-based HPMC (hypromellose), and both are sealed with Capsugels proprietary LEMS sealing process. The low moisture content of HPMC capsules, as well as the use of excipients with low water activity, means that very little moisture is present. It acts like an internal desiccant--which means twice the protection from moisture from one innovative system, said Vieceli. |
| published date: 05-05-2009 |
CapsCanada Acquires Two New Gelatin Production FacilitiesCapsCanada announced today that it has formally acquired two additional bovine hide gelatin production facilities.The acquisition further consolidates the companys vertically integrated operations with a total of four bovine hide gelatin production facilities. According to the companys director of business development, Gabriel Eilemberg, We have experienced very strong demand. He added that CapsCanada is the only vertically-integrated capsule manufacturer. Vertical integration means a secure long-term supply, better traceability and superior quality," Eilemberg noted. |
| published date: 04-27-2009 |
Pure Genistein Reduces Menopausal Symptoms, According to DSM StudyAccording to a new study first presented at the Experimental Biology 2009 meeting in New Orleans today, a form of pure genistein reduces the number and duration of hot flashes in peri- and postmenopausal women. The study was conducted by KGK Synergize, Inc., London, Ontario and sponsored by DSM Nutritional Products, Inc (Basel, Switzerland).In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, half of the enrolled women were given placebo capsules, while the other half were given capsules of a safe, high purity, non-plant derived, non-allergenic, patent-protected, proprietary genistein branded as geniVida by DSM. Study measurements included daily hot flashes (frequency, duration and intensity), individual-specific safety factors and adverse events. |
| published date: 04-22-2009 |
CapsCanada Launches Platinum CapsCapsCanada (Pompano Beach, FL) has announced the launch of Platinum Caps, two-piece metallic capsules available in gelatin or vegetable HPMC.The metallic look is obtained with a light-reflecting pigment, Candurin, composed of titanium dioxide and natural mica. Platinum Caps are available in a wide range of metallic colors or color combinations, and can be printed for increased product differentiation. Platinum Caps are free of preservatives, allergens, gluten and starches. |
| published date: 04-17-2009 |
Packaged Facts Reports Increase in Kosher Food SalesPackaged Facts estimates that sales of certified kosher foods swelled from nearly $150 billion in 2003 to more than $200 billion in 2008, demonstrating a compound annual growth rate twice that of the overall food market. The increase is largely attributable to the rising number of certified products, as well as a growing number of consumers who deliberately seek out kosher foods. Packaged Facts does not see traditional or "ethnic" kosher foods contributing to market growth.Packaged Facts forecasts the total market for certified kosher food will approach $260 billion, while sales of products that are purchased because they are kosher will fall between $14 billion (low estimate) and $17 billion (high estimate). Because the concept of a market for certified halal foods is a fairly new phenomenon, Muslims compose a very small share of the U.S. population, and many of the countries that are home to large Muslim populations have just begun to monitor and quantify sales, hard data are virtually nonexistent. |
| published date: 04-15-2009 |
NSF International Launches New Web SiteANN ARBOR, MIIn response to demands from consumers, athletes and coaches, NSF International has launched a new online resource, www.nsfsport.com, that provides information to help consumers, athletes, and coaches choose safer, quality products. Additional information, such as recent news stories on doping in sports and educational resources, can also be found at nsfsport.com. |
| published date: 03-13-2009 |
FDA Continues Weight-Loss Supplement InvestigationIn a continuing investigation, FDA (Rockville, MD) has determined that dozens of weight-loss supplements, most of them imported from China, contain hidden and potentially harmful drugs. The agency plans to issue a longer list of brands to avoid that are spiked with drugs in the coming weeks, an FDA spokeswoman said.Late last year, FDA ruled that StarCaps, papaya-infused weight loss capsules promoted as natural dietary supplements, were potential health hazards. The capsules contained pharmaceutical drug, bumetanide. So far, the FDA has cited 69 tainted weight-loss supplements. An in-depth story can be found here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/10/business/10pills.html?_r=1&hp |
| published date: 02-09-2009 |
Astaxanthin May Lower Blood PressureBURLINGTON, NJ Astaxanthin has the ability to significantly lower systolic blood pressure in rats, according to a new study performed at Georgetown University Medical Center. This study joins three other past studies performed at the Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University in Japan which researched astaxanthins ability to reduce hypertension as well mechanism of actions for this benefit.In the Georgetown University study, tests suggested that the Renin-Angiotensin system was involved in the ability of astaxanthin to lower blood pressure. Also, at higher dosage levels it was shown that astaxanthin influenced circulating TNF-α and MCP-1 and lessened fat oxidation in the liver and kidneys. This is an indication that astaxanthin may help to reduce stress. The study was sponsored by Fuji Chemical Industry (Japan) and performed using AstaREAL astaxanthin. |
| published date: 02-03-2009 |
Pyridoxamine Decision Places More Responsibility on Industry, CRN SaysWASHINGTON, DCIn response to an FDA (Rockville, MD) decision declaring products containing pyridoxamine dihydrochloride are not dietary supplements under DSHE, the Council for Responsible Nutrition issued the following statement:CRN accepts as established law under DSHEA the requirement that an article that has been authorized for investigation as a new drug and subjected to substantial clinical investigation prior to its being marketed as a dietary supplement or a food may not be marketed as a dietary supplement. "However, we are disappointed with FDAs response to the recent citizen petition involving pyridoxamine (a form of vitamin B6) that apparently views as inadequate the evidence presented by the industry, including CRN, of the previous marketing of pyridoxamine, even prior to the passage of DSHEA. "FDAs decision suggests that companies need to produce even more extensive evidence supporting an ingredients marketing as a dietary supplement, including catalog and business records from more than 15 years ago. Demanding that industry maintain these records, but failing to work with industry to develop an agreed-upon list of grandfathered ingredients, places more burden on dietary supplement companies to be sure that they can substantiate that an ingredient has in fact previously been marketed as a dietary supplement. "The agencys decision on pyridoxamine could set a precedent for the status of other dietary ingredients to be challenged. As such, CRN strongly encourages supplement and food companies to keep careful records of ingredients and marketing materials to ensure that the ingredients that they are using and marketing can continue to be marketed as dietary supplement ingredients under the law. |
| published date: 01-28-2009 |
Cyvex Becomes Sole Distributor for Chr. HansenMILWAUKEE, WICyvex Nutrition will be the exclusive distributor for Chr. Hansen's (Irvine, CA) line of phytonutrients.Chr. Hansen is a perfect partner for developing unique phytonutrients for the dietary supplement industry, said Gilbert Gluck, Cyvex CEO. |
| published date: 01-27-2009 |
Deerland Invests in Capital ExpendituresKENNESAW, GADeerland Enzymes recently invested in several capital expenditures at its Kennesaw headquarters. These expenditures included improved bulk blending capabilities for both large and small batch sizes, high speed encapsulation capabilities along with a broader spectrum of capsule sizes, a new tableting line to broaden manufacturing capabilities, automated bottling and labeling capacity, and automated inspection equipment.Deerland must evolve as our industry evolves. In doing so, it is vital that we continually invest in our business to meet or exceed the expectations of the customers who entrust us with their business, said Scott Ravech, CEO. Deerland has recognized this and to support these needs we invested in additional manufacturing capabilities, which will help us be able to better partner with our customers from concept through to commercialization. This will be offered across the value chain to include product/formulation design, development and finished product. |
| published date: 01-26-2009 |
Next Pharmaceuticals Expands WebsiteSALINAS, CANext Pharmaceuticals has announced their expanded website, www.nextpharmaceuticals.com. Scientific articles that support their branded proprietary raw materials may now be accessed. The site also addresses product manufacturers.Next Pharmaceuticals has grown significantly since the companys inception into the dietary supplement industry and it was time that our website reflected that growth and loyalty to our customers, said Charles Kosmont, NP CEO. |
| published date: 01-26-2009 |
Devansoy Facility Assumes Sole OwnershipROCK CITY, ILDevansoy has assumed complete ownership of their soy plant previously jointly operated with Berner Foods (Dakota, IL).This evolutionary step for Devansoy provides an increased ability to address new and exciting opportunities, stated Elmer Schettler, president of Devansoy. Most importantly, this commitment allows Devansoy to provide even greater service to our customers. The liquid soy base production facility is 94,000 sq ft. |
| published date: 01-23-2009 |
Himalaya Plants Trees for the Future in IndiaHOUSTON In a partnership with Trees for the Future (Silver Spring, MD), Himalaya Herbal Healthcare, makers of LiverCare, planted 49,750 trees in the two states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, the companys home country of India.These trees, planted in India, will sustainably benefit lands and communities devastated by deforestation and, increasingly, global climate change, said Trees for the Future director, Dave Deppner. These fast-growing, permanent, multi-purpose trees will protect fragile and eroded lands. They will improve the food and water security of surrounding households and communities, and ensure that families can continue to live in dignity and harmony with the natural resources of the land. |
| published date: 01-23-2009 |
Omega Fatty Acids Gaining Prominence in Global MarketNEW YORK In a new report, "Omega Fatty Acids: Trends in the Worldwide Food and Beverage Markets, 2nd Edition," market research publisher, Packaged Facts estimated that the omega fatty acid global market grew 36% between 2007 and 2008.The market for omega-3 fatty acids alone grew 34% from an estimated $3 billion in 2006 to almost $5 billion in 2007. Packaged Facts projects that the retail market for omega-3 enhanced foods will approach $8 billion by 2012. The projection reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 32% between 2003 and 2012. The upsurge of products enriched with omega fatty acids began in earnest in 2006 and the market is believed to be many years away from saturation. Marketers didnt really start touting the omega-3 content of enhanced foods until late 2004, and even once products entered the retail scene it wasnt until early 2006 that such products appeared in mainstream U.S. supermarkets, said Tatjana Meerman, publisher of Packaged Facts. |
| published date: 01-22-2009 |
BI Nutraceuticals Educates Industry on ETO and IrradiationLONG BEACH, CA BI Nutraceuticals has begun an education program designed to inform the dietary supplement industry about the FDA's (Rockville, MD) ban on the use of both irradiation and ethylene oxide (ETO) as a means of sterilization for raw materials.As part of this initiative, BI has compiled a four-page consultative guide to help industry members better understand U.S. regulations surrounding the banned use of ETO and irradiation as a means for dietary supplement ingredient sterilization, as well as familiarize them with legal alternatives including steam sterilization. "What a majority of manufacturers in the industry may not realize that the use of ETO and irradiation for the purpose of reducing or eliminating microbial loads is not permitted right now," stated George Pontaikos, president and CEO, BI Nutraceuticals. "These restrictions are not part of the new cGMPs that are being phased in over a three-year period, they are being enforced currently and companies using ETO or irradiated materials are subject to FDA penalties now." ETO is considered a pesticide, and according to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, any food that bears or contains a pesticide chemical residue that is unsafe is considered adulterated. |
| published date: 01-22-2009 |
Purdue Technology Detects Contaminant in Milk ProductsWEST LAFAYETTE, INA research team at Purdue University created an analysis method to detect levels of melamine in the low parts-per-billion in milk and milk powder in about 25 seconds.FDA (Rockville, MD) issued new guidelines in November limiting melamine in dairy products to 1 part-per-million or less. "This situation created an immediate need for an analytical method that is highly sensitive, fast, accurate and easy to use," said R. Graham Cooks, professor of chemistry, who led the team that developed the analysis method. "We took it as a challenge to use simpler instrumentation and to develop a faster method that allows the testing to be done on site and does not require pretreatment of samples." The new method pairs mass spectrometry with a low-temperature plasma ionization probe technique. Mass spectrometry is a commonly used analysis method known for its sensitivity and accuracy; however, most available mass spectrometers require that a sample be pretreated and remain in the controlled environment of a vacuum for analysis, Cooks said. "There is a growing need in our society for detailed chemical information that calls for the special capabilities of mass spectrometers," he said. "Researchers are working to make these devices faster, easier to use and more portable. Perhaps one day everyone will have a mass spectrometer to analyze whatever comes their way." |
| published date: 01-22-2009 |
Sabinsa Stages Functional Food Demo at Expo WestPISCATAWAY, NJ Sabinsa will provide dishes including several of Sabinsas GRAS ingredients at Expo West in Anaheim, California on March 6. The products include:LactoSpore shelf-stable probiotic: Produces only L (+) Lactic Acid, which metabolizes to glycogen Cococin coconut water solids: Hold a repository of vitamins, minerals and amino acids Citrin K Garcinia cambogia fruit extract in potassium salt form: Supports satiety Selenium: Bio-available, a form of selenium supplementation This demo will take place at 1 PM in the Global Supply Marketplace booth #130 in the Anaheim Convention Center. |
| published date: 01-21-2009 |
Vitiva Opens New UK OfficeSLOVENIAVitiva has opened a subsidiary office in the UK for its natural rosemary extract formulations used for food and beverage preservation.I'm very enthusiastic to see the UK market follow the success that natural preservatives based on rosemary extract meet in Europe and the USA, said Steve Sutton-Wild, regional sales manager of Vitiva. The new office will provide local service, superior technical support and after sales support to an extensive customer base. |
| published date: 01-21-2009 |
Pycnogenol Wins Frost and Sullivan AwardGENEVAHorphag Research, suppliers of Pycnogenol, has earned the 2008 Frost & Sullivan Health Ingredients Excellence in Research of the Year Award. The antioxidant Pycnogenol is an extract from French maritime pine bark. It is available in more than 600 dietary supplements, cosmeceuticals and functional food and beverage products.Our pledge is to further strengthen the brand value of Pycnogenol though innovative research, new product development and state of the art communication in order to continue growing consumer demand, said Victor Ferrari, CEO of Horphag Research. |
| published date: 01-21-2009 |
AHPA Releases White Paper on Heavy MetalsSILVER SPRING, MDAHPA announced its paper, Heavy metal analysis and interim recommended limits for botanical dietary supplements, on January 20. The paper provides industry with information on successful compliance with current good manufacturing practices (cGMP).AHPAs white paper presents the associations proposed interim limits for lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic, which were announced in October 2008, with accompanying explanations as to how these limits were determined. Additionally, the document addresses: 1) Regulations concerning lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic in products sold in the U.S. 2) Daily limits set for these chemicals by U.S. and international regulatory agencies 3) Available analytical methods for measuring heavy metals guidance on how to determine which analytical methods are most suitable for dietary supplements 4) Selecting a contract lab that can properly conduct heavy metal testing Heavy metal analysis and interim recommended limits for botanical dietary supplements is available for purchase by non-members at AHPAs online bookstore. If you are an AHPA member, you may login and then download your free copy here: http://www.ahpa.org/Default.aspx?tabid=211> The paper will also be provided free to registrants of AHPAs upcoming webinar, Setting and Meeting Specifications for Contaminants in Finished Products Under cGMP. Scheduled for Jan. 22 at 1 p.m. EST, the webinar will expand upon the information in the white paper and also address Californias Proposition 65, certificates of analysis, liability concerns and additional contaminants including mycotoxins and pesticides. AHPAs goal is to help excellent companies of all sizes come into compliance with cGMP and continue producing superior, health-promoting products for consumers, said Michael McGuffin, AHPA president. |
| published date: 01-20-2009 |
CortiSlim Re-Launches with Advantra ZWEST CALDWELL, NJNutratechs bitter orange extract, Advantra Z, will continue as the thermogenic component of the weight loss supplement, CortiSlim (Laguna Niguel, CA)."By incorporating Advantra Z, CortiSlim offers the thermogenic benefits of all five adrenergic amines that occur naturally in the bitter orange fruit - including the stable p isomer of synephrine - so consumers can enjoy optimal body fat loss as well as an increase in energy expenditure without any negative cardiovascular and central nervous system side effects," said Bob Green, Nutratech president. "It was important to us to continue the CortiSlim formula that was effective for so many consumers, and that includes Advantra Z," said John Neubauer, chief financial officer of CortiSlim International. |
| published date: 01-16-2009 |
EBF Releases Report Detailing Botanical SupplementsBRUSSELSIn light of the popularity of botanical supplements in Europe, the European Botanical Forum (EBF) has released its first fact file detailing the nutritional role of these ingredients.The file aims to correct some commonly-held misapprehensions, and offers an overview of aspects related to the use of these ingredients in food supplements. It includes regulatory and practical information on their current use. It also details legislation that covers these products to ensure consumers have safe and useful products to supplement their diet. Advances in research and technology have meant that the health-promoting benefits of botanicals can be captured, preserved and presented in a convenient form that can be made widely available, said Manfred Ruthsatz, EBF chairman. The development of botanical food supplements enables an ever-growing number of consumers in our increasingly urbanised society to safely and easily use botanicals to both maintain and optimise their health. Botanical food supplements and herbal medicinal products follow two distinct and separate legal frameworks, hence fully justifying their co-existence side by side, Ruthsatz said. This fact file clarifies and shows that the extensive regulatory framework for botanical food supplements is fully adequate to ensure their safety and quality, he added. The EBF was founded in 2004 by the European food supplements sector. Its main goal is to encourage debate among industry, government and the scientific community on issues affecting botanical foods supplements. To obtain a copy of the fact file, e-mail info@botanical-forum.be or call the EBF at (+32) 2 209 11 50. |
| published date: 01-15-2009 |
CRN Questions PEN ReportWASHINGTON, DCIn response to a recent report released by the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies (PEN; Washington, DC) detailing the regulatory challenges posed by nanomaterials, Andrew Shao of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), released this statement:Nanotechnology has been used in various products for decades, including drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, conventional foods and dietary supplements. As the prevalence of nanomaterials continues to rise, FDA (Rockville, MD) is examining how to best address this emerging technology in all regulated industries. "We question the true motives behind this report from ...PEN which provides a very limited amount of useful information on nanotechnology and paints a misleading picture by implying that only one industry faces questions about nanotechnology. This report masquerades as a legitimate review of the use of nanomaterials in dietary supplements but in reality it seems to be an attempt to explain the authors views on dietary supplement regulations and their suggestions for change. "As far as we are aware, there are no specific safety issues associated with the use of nanotechnology. There is one area of agreement with the report: that FDA could use more resources to better do its job; however, adequate agency funding and nanotechnology are not specific to dietary supplementsthese issues affect all industries regulated by FDA. We encourage FDA to evolve with emerging technologies, such as nanotechnology, and welcome further dialogue with the agency on how to proceed with reasonable regulation of these new technologiesregulation that is able to be implemented by the industry, enforced by the agency and would benefit consumers. |
| published date: 01-15-2009 |
Judge Orders Weight Loss Author to Pay More Than $37 MillionA federal judge has ordered infomercial marketer Kevin Trudeau to pay more than $37 million for violating a 2004 stipulated order by misrepresenting the content of his book, The Weight Loss Cure They Dont Want You to Know About.In August 2008, Judge Robert W. Gettleman of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois had ordered Trudeau to pay more than $5 million and banned him, for three years, from producing or publishing infomercials for products in which he has an interest. The ruling confirmed an earlier contempt finding, the second such finding against Trudeau in the past four years. Urged by both the FTC (Washington, DC) and Trudeau to reconsider aspects of its August order, on November 4 Judge Gettleman amended the judgment to $37,616,161, the amount consumers paid in response to the deceptive infomercials. The judge also revised the three-year ban to prohibit Trudeau from disseminating or assisting others in disseminating any infomercial for any informational publication in which he has an interest. On December 11, the court denied Trudeaus request to reconsider or stay this ruling. The FTC filed its first lawsuit against Trudeau in 1998, charging him with making false and misleading claims in infomercials for products he claimed could cause significant weight loss and cure addictions to heroin, alcohol, and cigarettes, as well as enable users to achieve a photographic memory. A stipulated court order resolving that case barred Trudeau from making false claims for products in the future, ordered him to pay $500,000 in consumer redress, and established a $500,000 performance bond to ensure compliance. In 2003, the Commission charged Trudeau with violating the 1998 order by falsely claiming in infomercials that a product, Coral Calcium Supreme, could cure cancer. The court subsequently entered a preliminary injunction that ordered him not to make such claims. When Trudeau continued to make cancer-cure claims about Coral Calcium, he was found in contempt. In 2004, Trudeau agreed to an order that resolved the Coral Calcium matter. He was directed to pay $2 million in consumer redress and banned from infomercials, except for informational publications such as books, provided that he must not misrepresent the content of those publications. The 2004 injunction remains in effect. |
| published date: 01-15-2009 |
Marketers of Thermalean, Lipodrene, and Spontane-ES Must Pay More Than $15 MillionNORCROSS, GAA federal district court has ordered the marketers of three dietary supplements to pay more than $15 million for deceiving consumers about the products safety and effectiveness. The court imposed the final monetary judgment and permanent prohibitions against the marketers in December 2008, after granting the FTC's (Washington, DC) motion for summary judgment last June.The court found National Urological Group, Inc. and several other corporate and individual defendants liable for more than $15.8 million in deceptive sales of Thermalean, Lipodrene, and Spontane-ES. Thermalean and Lipodrene are purported weight loss treatments. According to the defendants advertisements, they were clinically proven to cause substantial weight loss, including a 19 percent loss in total body weight. Spontane-ES is a purported treatment for erectile dysfunction. According to the defendants advertisements, it was clinically proven to safely and effectively treat 90 percent of men with erectile dysfunction. The court permanently barred the defendants (except now-dissolved National Institute for Clinical Weight Loss) from engaging in deceptive conduct in the future and also ordered Terrill Mark Wright, MD, to pay $15,454 for his deceptive endorsement of Thermalean. These defendants are old-fashioned snake oil salesmen who retooled their pitches to cash in on 21st century concerns, said Lydia B. Parnes, director of the FTCs Bureau of Consumer Protection. They led people to believe that the supplements they sold to treat weight loss and erectile dysfunction were safe and effective treatments, when nothing could be further from the truth. Of note, the court held the three corporate defendants liable based on their operation as a common enterprise, given that the same group of individuals controlled all the companies, shared expenses and advertising for the same products, and worked together to achieve profitability. The court rejected the defendants arguments that the advertising was protected commercial speech under the First Amendment or that it was mere puffery. The court held that the FTCs requirement calling for competent and reliable scientific evidence is not unconstitutionally vague, pointing to the FTCs dietary supplement guides as evidence that an ordinary person could understand the definition of the term as outlined in the guides. The court also rejected the defendants argument that the FTCs challenge to the advertising was precluded by a consent decree that the defendants had entered into with the FDA (Rockville, MD). The final order imposes a $15.8 million judgment. The final order against medical endorser Terrill Wright imposes a $15,454 judgment. The orders also place restrictions on the defendants future conduct. These orders were issued last month by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. They prohibit the defendants from claiming that their products treat obesity or erectile dysfunction, are clinically tested or scientifically proven to be safe or effective, or have other health or safety benefits, unless the claims, including endorsements, are true, not misleading, and based on reliable scientific evidence. In addition, the defendants are banned from misrepresenting the existence, validity, results, or conclusions of any test or study. The orders also contain standard record-keeping provisions to allow the FTC to monitor compliance. Copies of the June 2008 decision and December 2008 court orders are available on the FTCs Web site at http://www.ftc.gov |
| published date: 01-15-2009 |
Nanomaterials a Regulatory Challenge for FDA, Report ConcludesWASHINGTON, DCFDAs ability to regulate the safety of dietary supplements using nanomaterials is inadequate due to a lack of information, resources and statutory authority in certain areas, according to a new report released by the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies (PEN).The report, titled A Hard Pill To Swallow: Barriers to Effective FDA Regulation of Nanotechnology-Based Dietary Supplements, details the FDAs chief problems in regulating nano-enabled dietary supplements. The report also offers a host of recommendations for improving oversight of such products. "Historically, the regulation of dietary supplements has been a significant challenge for FDA, and the fact that some of those products are now being manufactured using nanotechnology creates an additional layer of complexity," said William B. Schultz, report co-author, and a former FDA official. Supplement manufacturers are required to disclose limited information about their products under current law, and what information is available is a result of nanotechnology marketing by manufacturers, says the report. "While it is not possible to precisely determine the prevalence of dietary supplements using engineered nanoparticles, it is likely that the public's exposure to these products will grow significantly in the next several years," said Lisa Barclay, also a co-author of the report. According to an inventory of federal environmental, health and safety research on nanotechnology maintained by PEN, the U.S. government spends less than $1 million annually to study the direct impact of nanoscale materials on the gastrointestinal tract. "It is not clear that the supplement industry is conducting the rigorous testing needed either to understand the effects of nanoscale ingredients in its products or to back up the product claims. This means that consumers are potentially exposed to unknown risks that should be balanced with the possible benefits of taking these supplements," said David Rejeski, PEN's director. |
| published date: 01-14-2009 |
Bright Outlook for European Functional Foods Sector and Heart Health MarketLONDONThe European functional foods market earned $545 million in 2008 and is estimated to earn up to $2 billion in 2014, according to analysis from Frost & Sullivan (Palo Alto, CA), the company reported on January 13."A variety of ingredients positioned for heart-health, with their functional benefits, is increasingly used for the fortification of various food and beverage applications," said Frost & Sullivan research analyst Chandrasekhar S. "The preventive cost of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by virtue of these ingredients is much cheaper for the consumers than the cost of its treatment." Nevertheless, the heart health ingredients market is restrained by a 2000 EU food-labeling directive preventing health claims from being made on products. Nonetheless, European manufacturers have submitted their dossiers to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA; Parma, Italy) to place health claims on their ingredients. "Manufacturers, with the help of industry associations such as GOED (Salt Lake City) are lobbying for the usage of health claims," noted Chandrasekhar. "They are also involved in extensive branding and promotional activities to increase consumer awareness on CVD and the positive impact of the various ingredients, thereby enhancing the credibility of such awareness campaigns." |
| published date: 01-13-2009 |
Vitamin D May Delay or Prevent DiabetesMAYWOOD, ILA sufficient intake of vitamin D may prevent or delay the onset of diabetes, concluded research from Loyola University Chicago, Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing. The study, appearing in the latest issue of Diabetes Educator, said adequate intake may also reduce complications for those who have already been diagnosed with diabetes."Vitamin D has widespread benefits for our health and certain chronic diseases in particular," said study co-author, Sue Penckofer, PhD, RN. "This article further substantiates the role of this nutrient in the prevention and management of glucose intolerance and diabetes." One study examined for the review article evaluated 3,000 people with type 1 diabetes and found a decreased risk in disease for people who took vitamin D supplements. Observational studies of people with type 2 diabetes also revealed that supplementation may be important in the prevention of this disease. "Management of vitamin D deficiency may be a simple and cost-effective method to improve blood sugar control and prevent the serious complications associated with diabetes," said study co-author, Joanne Kouba, PhD, RD, LDN. Diet alone may not be sufficient to manage vitamin D levels. A combination of adequate dietary intake of vitamin D, exposure to sunlight, and treatment with vitamin D2 or D3 supplements can decrease the risk of diabetes and related health concerns. The preferred range in the body is 30 - 60 ng/mL of 25(OH) vitamin D. An estimated 23 million Americans with diabetes have low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency may also be associated with hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hypertension and heart disease. |
| published date: 01-12-2009 |
Robinson Pharma Completes Successful CGMP AuditSANTA ANA, CARobinson Pharma Inc., (RPI) announced its completion of a surveillance audit for cGMP compliant manufacture of dietary supplements on January 9.The audit was performed by STR (Enfield, CT), a third party testing and auditing firm with a focus on quality systems and analysis. According to RPI, the company has undergone significant investments in manufacturing systems that feature a hands free constant monitoring approach to all aspects of manufacturing process. These include investing resources in designing systems that support effective ingredient receipt and testing, pharmacy and pre-production processing, manufacturing, post production testing, and packaging. Last year we committed to the RQP. This year we have demonstrated that we can maintain a high level of quality simultaneous to expanding our production capacity and speeding our pace of delivery to our customers, said RPI president and founder, Tuong Nguyen. Partnering with STR, along with other key strategic initiatives, has facilitated the transformation of RPI from a contract manufacturer to aprivate label supplier of some of the leading marketers of dietary supplements in the United States and other international markets said Kenn Israel, vice president of marketing. |
| published date: 01-09-2009 |
Ecuadorian Rainforest Launches Online Video With Top 2008 IngredientsBELLEVILLE, NJ Ecuadorian Rainforest has launched an online video titled, Nutraceuticals 2009, the company announced on January 9. The video presents the top ingredients of 2008 based on ER sales figures and showcases new ingredients for 2009. The video can be viewed for free at: http://www.intotherainforest.com/blog/ |
| published date: 01-09-2009 |
CRN Supports FDA Weight Loss RecallWASHINGTON, DC In response to the FDAs expansion of a nationwide recall of 69 tainted weight loss products that contain undisclosed ingredients, Steve Mister, president of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), issued the following statement on January 9:We applaud FDAs efforts to protect consumers from tainted weight loss products that contain active, undeclared ingredients. It is unfortunate that some of these products have been marketed as dietary supplements. Under the law, what is in the dietary supplement bottle should be listed on the label and products that break the law have no business being on store shelves. CRN supports the Agencys decision to demand removal of these adulterated products from the market. It is particularly concerning that some of these weight loss products illegally contain pharmaceutical drugs, which can be especially dangerous and put consumers at risk. Regardless of how it is marketed, if a weight loss product contains a drug ingredient, it is a drug under federal law. The new good manufacturing practices (GMPs) specific to dietary supplements, published in 2007, provide even more quality assurance throughout the entire manufacturing process to reduce the risk of accidental adulteration and cross-contamination, so that incidences like this are rare. The majority of companies in the dietary supplement industry abide by the law and work hard to provide the more than 150 million Americans who take vitamins and other dietary supplements with safe, high quality, and beneficial products. We encourage consumers to be savvy when it comes to their supplementsalways buy from reputable companies that you know and trust. |
| published date: 01-09-2009 |
AHPA Supports FDAs Recall of Tainted Dietary SupplementsSILVER SPRING, MD The American Herbal Products Association supported the FDAs efforts to recall products marketed as dietary supplements that contained undeclared, active pharmaceutical ingredients, AHPA said on January 9.We applaud this good work by FDA, said AHPA president, Michael McGuffin. AHPAs mission to promote the responsible commerce of herbal products can only be accomplished when FDA and other government agencies actively enforce the law against outliers. Under the Food, Drug & Cosmetics Act (FDCA), products marketed as dietary supplements that contain pharmaceutical ingredients not specified on the label are illegal, and must be removed from the marketplace. |
| published date: 01-09-2009 |
NPA Advocates Strength of DSHEAWASHINGTON DC Responding to recent statements regarding dietary supplement regulation, the Natural Products Associations CEO, David Seckman, released this statement on January 8:Increased scrutiny by professional sports leagues on steroid usage, which the NPA commends, has unfortunately also led to increased and unsubstantiated allegations that a "tainted" or mislabeled dietary supplement is to blame when an athlete tests positive for a banned substance. As (DSHEA) mandates, all ingredients must be listed on product labels and product claims must be substantiated. If this is not the case, the FDA (Silver Spring, MD)-- along with the FTC (Washington DC)-- have the authority under DSHEA to act promptly. These federal enforcement powers include, but are not limited to, removing any dietary supplements deemed adulterated from the marketplace and imposing substantial penalties on those who violate the law. Additional regulations authorized by DSHEA require that makers of dietary supplements have manufacturing practices in place that ensure their products meet high standards for quality and purity. Finally, it is important to remember that substances that are banned by various sports leagues as performance enhancers are not necessarily dangerous or illegal and include caffeine, commonly used over-the-counter cold remedies and prescription medications. Athletes have the right and responsibility to avoid their use. However, the consuming public who benefits from legitimate medications or dietary supplements -- as well as a trip to the local coffee house -- should not be denied their use if an athlete is unwilling or unable to follow the rules established by their sport. |
| published date: 01-08-2009 |
Astaxanthin Detected in the Iris/Ciliary Body of the Eye, Fuji SaysBURLINGTON, NJIn a new study, Fuji Healths brand of natural astaxanthin extract (AstaREAL) derived from Haematococcus microalgae was detected in the iris/ciliary body of New Zealand albino rabbit eyes 24 hours after ingestion, the company announced on January 6.Astaxanthin has been reported to have benefits in the eye such as the alleviation of eye fatigue in visual display terminal (VDT) workers after oral supplementation. However, up to now there has been no intraocular kinetic information available. Researchers at Kanazawa Medical University (Ishikawa, Japan) and Fuji investigated the ocular and blood serum levels of astaxanthin in 24 NZW albino rabbits. After administering a 100 mg/kg single oral dose, astaxanthin was determined by extraction followed by HPLC analysis over a period of 168 hours. Further human study is necessary. |
| published date: 01-06-2009 |
Aloha Medicinals Announces Construction of Second Nanoparticle DeviceCARSON CITY, NVAloha Medicinals announced the construction of a second proprietary nanoparticle manufacturing device, the company said on January 6. Aloha first introduced nano-sized medicinal mushroom products in early 2008.Nanoparticles, sometimes called sub-micronized particles, those of 1 microns or less in size, demonstrate remarkable ability to increase the bodys ability to absorb nutrients and medicines, said John Holliday, president and chief scientific officer of Aloha Medicinals. The smaller the particle size, the more efficient the nutrient or drug becomes. That means that ultimately less of the drug is required to obtain a therapeutic affect, which in turn means that medicines not only cost less, but absorption is quicker and the potential for side-effects is minimized. The technology uses jets of high pressure gas to grind the particles down to sizes small enough to pass through the skin. In order to prevent heat from building up, the gas jets are fed through a specially designed nozzle that creates cold rather than heat. The gas jets stream into the manufacturing chamber at temperatures of 30 degrees below zero. Roger Scott, the Alohas CEO said that the new technology opens opportunities in the areas of dietary supplements, OTC and prescription drugs, cosmetics and liquids. The micronized particles of insoluble material are so fine they appear to become soluble, allowing them to be inserted in liquids and not fall to the bottom of the bottle, said Scott. This technology gives us the ability to produce novel new dosage forms that will make it more convenient and less expensive for people to stay well. |
| published date: 01-06-2009 |
New Standard for Stevia to Assue Products QualityROCKVILLE, MD Responding to the growing popularity of a plant-based sweetener, the U.S. Pharmacopeial (USP) Convention today announced it is developing a new standard to be included in the Food Chemicals Codex (FCC) that will help food and beverage manufacturers assure the products quality for consumers. USP is seeking comments from the food and beverage industry as well as all other interested parties on the proposed new standard for Rebaudioside A.As U.S. manufacturers begin to incorporate this new ingredient into their products, it is important for these companies and, ultimately, consumers to have some sort of assurance that the Rebaudioside A being used is of high quality, is free of harmful contaminants and is consistent in its contents from one batch to the next, said Darrell Abernethy, MD, PhD, chief science officer for USP. By proposing a standard that all manufacturersin the United States and around the worldcan participate in the development of and subsequently choose to adhere to, USP and food and beverage manufacturers can partner to assure the quality of this ingredient. Consumers also are able to participate in this process. We believe such a quality standard is critical given that Rebaudioside As use as a sweetener is relatively new in the United States. The proposed monograph standard became available in the FCC Forum section of USPs website on December 31, 2008, for 90 days. After this comment period, USPs Food Ingredients Expert Committee, which comprises a group of independent, scientific experts, will approve the final monograph to be included in the 2009 FCC supplement. |
| published date: 01-05-2009 |
DSM Blood Pressure Management Product Wins at HIEPARSIPPANY, NJ TensGuard, an odorless, water soluble blood pressure management ingredient from DSM Nutritional Products, was recently awarded first prize at this years Health Ingredients Europe exhibition by a judging panel of retailers, manufacturers, scientists, and industry leaders.TensGuard demonstrates an innovative heart health solution that creates exciting opportunities for food and beverage manufacturers to open up a completely new market, said Luc van der Heyden, the business manager for DSMs functional food marketing division. Were delighted to have won. |
| published date: 01-05-2009 |
Sabinsa Receives GRAS status for LactoSporePISCATAWAY, NJ Sabinsas probiotic ingredient, LactoSpore, received GRAS status after a review of safety and toxicology data by an independent panel of scientists.LactoSpore is particularly valued by our customers for its convenient storage and handling attributes. The fact that this clinically validated probiotic culture does not need refrigeration to help retain its healthful properties is attractive to formulators and consumers alike, said Lakshmi Prakash, PhD, vice president of innovation and business development. LacotSpore, formerly known as Lactobacillus sporogenes is a shelf stable (at room temperature) probiotic, originally isolated from a food source (green malt) in Japan. It can be used in baked goods to milk products, soups, snacks, candy, and non-alcoholic beverages, among other products. |
| published date: 01-05-2009 |
Scientia Forecasts Sunny Future for Functional FoodsPALO ALTO, CAIn a study released on December 18, Scientia predicts an annual compound growth rate of 7% through 2012, averaged across all segments of the industry. The rapid rise will bring global sales of functional foods to $195 billiona 52% gain over 2006 sales of $128 billion.Functional foods, also called medicinal foods or nutraceuticals, are those fortified with naturally occurring ingredients that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Functional foods may include probiotics, omega-3 extracts, phytonutrients, or other natural substances. Some of these ingredients can reduce the risk of certain diseases or help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Others can enhance physical and athletic performance, memory, or cognitive performance. The expected growth in the functional foods marketplace will come as a result of a constellation of factors, according to Bob Jones, a principal consultant at Scientia, who led the study. Factors include: increasing scientific evidence of functional foods effectiveness; increased media publicity encouraging consumer adoption; an aging population with growing chronic health needs, and food companies ability to work in a regulatory environment that increasingly requires scientific substantiation of claims being made. Both large and small companies are developing efficacious new ingredients, Jones said. Currently, there are clinical trials underway to test the role of omega-3 fatty acids in slowing the progression of Alzheimers disease. There is also work supporting the role of probiotics in enhancing immune systems. Equally important, companies are making commercially successfully products that taste good, are affordable, and can be found in the supermarket. Not all functional food products enjoy equal success, the study found. For example, yogurts fortified with probiotics have enjoyed great success, where margarines fortified with a cholesterol-lowering sterol have largely failed in the United States. The study identifies several factors responsible for the commercial success of some functional food products and the disappointing sales of others. |
| published date: 12-18-2008 |
BASF to Close North Carolina Manufacturing SiteWILMINGTON, NCBASF Corp. announced on December 18 that it will close its Wilmington, NC, vitamins manufacturing site by March 31, 2009.The facility, a part of BASFs Care Chemicals Division, manufactures formulated vitamin C products for the dietary supplement industry. Employees were notified that the approximately 33 positions at the site will be eliminated over the next three months. We wanted employees to be aware of this decision as soon it was made. We regret the impact this decision may have on these employees and their families, especially at this time of year, said Simon Medley, vice president of BASFs Care Chemicals and Formulators Regional Business Unit. The decision is in no way a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and professionalism of the colleagues at this facility. |
| published date: 12-18-2008 |
Omniactive Launches Capsimax, New Hot Pepper Weight Loss IngredientSHORT HILLS, NJOmniActive Health Technologies announced the launch of a proprietary blend of Capsimax Plus, its capsicum, or hot red pepper, ingredient, on December 18."In the weight-loss and athletic performance categories, products containing ingredients with no science to support their calorie-burning claims are all-too-common," stated Jayant Deshpande, PhD, vice president of research and development for OmniActive Health Technologies. "OmniActive is pleased to offer manufacturers a high-quality, clinically researched ingredient like Capsimax Plus Blend to help their customers achieve their diet or weight-management goals." |
| published date: 12-18-2008 |
FDA Issues No Objection Letter to GRAS Status of Reb A; Companies Unveil New ProductsPURCHASE, NYFDA issued a no objection letter to the GRAS status of rebaudioside A (Reb A), the stevia extract used in PureVia, PepsiCos all-natural, zero-calorie sweetener, PepsiCo announced on December 17.This response indicates FDA has no objection to the conclusion that Reb A is generally recognized as safe. "We are delighted to bring PureVia to consumers," said Paul Block, CEO of Merisant and Whole Earth Sweetener Co. PepsiCo will launch two new products featuring PureVia. Zero-calorie SoBe Lifewater, a line of naturally sweetened waters, will hit store shelves soon in three flavors: black and blue berry, Fuji apple pear, and yumberry pomegranate. Tropicana will introduce Trop50, a light orange juice product with 50%less sugar and calories using PureVia, in March. For consumers who are demanding more natural foods and beverages and counting calories but don't want to compromise on taste, PureVia hits the sweet spot," said Massimo d'Amore, CEO of PepsiCo Americas Beverages. "The new flavors of SoBe Lifewater and Trop50 will continue the transformation of our product portfolio into a wider variety of healthy products, and we also believe they can help revitalize interest in our North American beverage business. Cargill (Minneapolis), which partnered with Coca-Cola to help pioneer Truvia, said of the news, "Given the extensive research conducted to assure the safety of Truvia, Cargill has tremendous confidence in the product. The FDA letter further validates what the science has concludedthat Truvia rebiana is safe for use for all consumers," said Marcelo Montero, president of Cargill Health & Nutrition. "FDA brought the appropriate rigor to the process and we are extremely pleased with the news." As a result of this news: *Coca-Cola announced the launch of its new product, Sprite Green, naturally sweetened with Truvia sweetener. The beverage has 50 calories per 8.5-ounce serving and 5% lemon juice. The Sprite brand has a rich history of setting trends and breaking new ground in sparkling beverages, and we think consumers will be excited to try Sprite Green, said Santiago Blanco, vice president of Sprite and Flavors at Coca-Cola North America. Sprite Green with Truvia natural sweetener is a significant step in our ongoing efforts to apply the latest breakthrough innovations to our expanding array of beverages. *Odwalla Inc. is also adding reduced-calorie juice drinks sweetened with Truvia to its product portfolio. The drinks, Mojito Mambo natural juice drink with vitamins C and E, and pomegranate strawberry natural juice drink from concentrate with vitamins C and E, will be on retailer shelves this month. Each has 50 calories per 8-oz. serving. |
| published date: 12-17-2008 |
BIO-tract Awarded Third PatentREDMOND, WANutraceutix received a patent for BIO-tract from the Australian Patent Office. BIO-tract tablets form a protective layer in the body, shielding probiotic organisms from the acidic conditions of the stomach. After passing from the stomach to the intestinal tract, the tablets release the organisms at rates determined by formulation.Many years ago, we recognized the need for an effective probiotic and nutraceutical delivery technologyone that draws from proven pharmaceutical principals, but does so in a fashion that is economically feasible in the nutritional supplement marketplace. With BIO-tract, we have addressed this need," said Steve Moger, president of Nutraceutix. In the case of probiotics, three barriers must be fulfilled: 1) Survival of these beneficial, but fragile organisms through the manufacturing process. 2) Survival on the store shelf. 3) Safe passage through the harsh stomach acids that may denature the organisms. This is BIO-tracts third international patent. |
| published date: 12-16-2008 |
Airborne Reaches Largest Ever Dietary Supplement SettlementTALLAHASSEE, FLA $7 million settlement has been reached between Airborne Health Inc., Florida, and 31 other states, said Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum on December 16. Under the settlement, the Florida-based company and owners Victoria Knight-McDowell and Thomas John McDowell will modify marketing practices in order to alleviate allegations against unsubstantiated claims concerning Airborne products.The lawsuit alleged that the company marketed a cold prevention remedy, a sore throat remedy, a germ fighter, and an allergy remedy without adequate proof the products could perform as advertised at the time the claims were made. The lawsuit also alleged the defendants failed to adequately warn consumers about potential health risks to select populations, including pregnant women, caused by old formulations of Airborne that contained potentially elevated levels of vitamin A. The company has since significantly reduced the vitamin A levels. The $7 million payment is the largest payment to date in a multistate settlement with a dietary supplement producer. Floridas share of the $7 million is $460,000, which will go toward future monitoring and enforcement in this area. Under the settlement, the company and the McDowells have agreed not to make any express or implied claims concerning the health benefit, performance, efficacy, or safety of their products, unless the claim can be substantiated by competent and reliable scientific evidence. The settlement is the last of three settlements involving similar claims regarding the older advertising and labeling of Airborne dietary supplements. |
| published date: 12-16-2008 |
AHPA Urges USP to Adopt Guidelines on Heavy MetalsSILVER SPRING, MDThe American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) has petitioned U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP; Rockville, MD) to adopt AHPAs guidance limits for heavy metals in orally consumed botanical-containing finished products, AHPA announced on December 16.The setting of specification limits for heavy metals should be risk-based, which does not confer a testing requirement unless the risk is likely to be present. USP has provided no justification that additional testing is required, or that initial testing is needed to provide safety assurance that would not otherwise already be handled under CGMP, said AHPA chief science officer and USP metal impurities ad hoc advisory panel member, Steven Dentali, PhD. AHPA also requested that USP communicate that the listing of limits for metal impurities does not present an implied need to employ analytical testing. USP is an official public standardssetting authority for all prescription and overthecounter medicines and other health care products manufactured or sold in the United States. |
| published date: 12-16-2008 |
NCCAM Study Reveals 38% of Americans Have Tried CAMAbout 38 percent of American adults 18 years and over and about 12 percent of U.S. children 17 years and under use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), according to the 2007 National Health Interview Survey. The study was developed by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM; Bethesda, MD), a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH; Washington DC.) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS; Hyattsville, MD), a part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC; Atlanta, GA)."The 2007 NHIS provides the most current, comprehensive, and reliable source of information on Americans' use of CAM," said Josephine P. Briggs, MD, director of NCCAM. "These statistics confirm that CAM practices are a frequently used component of Americans' health care regimens, and reinforce the need for rigorous research to study the safety and effectiveness of these therapies. The data also point out the need for patients and health care providers to openly discuss CAM use to ensure safe and coordinated care." The results are based on data from more than 23,300 interviews with American adults. Comparison of the data from the 2002 and 2007 surveys suggests that overall use of CAM among adults has remained relatively steady36 percent in 2002 and 38 percent in 2007. The most commonly used CAM therapies among U.S. adults were: * Nonvitamin, nonmineral, natural products (17.7 %) Most common: fish oil/omega 3/DHA, glucosamine, echinacea, flaxseed oil or pills, and ginseng3 * Deep breathing exercises (12.7 %) * Meditation (9.4 %) * Chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation (8.6 %) * Massage (8.3 %) * Yoga (6.1 %) The most commonly used CAM therapies among children were: * Nonvitamin, nonmineral, natural products (3.9 %) Most common: echinacea, fish oil/omega 3/DHA, combination herb pill, flaxseed oil or pills, and prebiotics or probiotics * Chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation (2.8 %) * Deep breathing exercises (2.2 %) * Yoga (2.1 %) "Future analyses of these data may help explain some of the observed variation in the use of individual CAM therapies and provide greater insights into CAM use patterns among Americans," said Richard L. Nahin PhD. |
| published date: 12-11-2008 |
Lifesupplemented Study Reveals Doctor's Supplement ChoicesThe results of the 2008 Lifesupplemented Healthcare Professionals Impact Study show that orthopedic specialists, cardiologists and dermatologists both consume and give dietary supplements to their patients for nuanced diseases as well as overall wellness.We learned from the 2007 HCP Impact Study that physicians and nurses are taking supplements as part of a proactive wellness regimen that also includes healthy diet and regular exercise, said Judy Blatman, senior vice president of communications at the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington DC.), that heads the study. With the second year of this study, we were able to dive into specific specialties and find similar trends, further demonstrating the important role for doctors in incorporating dietary supplements as an integral part of wellness. The highest dietary supplement use was among dermatologist with 75 percent of dermatologists using dietary supplements and 60 percent believing the use of dietary supplements among consumers is mainstream. About 73 percent of orthopaedic specialists use dietary supplements and 63 percent believe the use of dietary supplements among consumers is mainstream. The number among cardiologists is 57 percent to 53 percent. The study surveyed 1,177 healthcare professionals (300 primary care physicians, 301 OB/GYNs, 299 other physician specialists and 277 registered nurses and nurse practitioners). |
| published date: 12-11-2008 |
Naturex Receives Organic CertificationTALLAHASSEE, FLA $7 million settlement has been reached between Airborne Health Inc., Florida, and 31 other states, said Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum on December 16. Under the settlement, the Florida-based company and owners Victoria Knight-McDowell and Thomas John McDowell will modify marketing practices in order to alleviate allegations against unsubstantiated claims concerning Airborne products.The lawsuit alleged that the company marketed a cold prevention remedy, a sore throat remedy, a germ fighter, and an allergy remedy without adequate proof the products could perform as advertised at the time the claims were made. The lawsuit also alleged the defendants failed to adequately warn consumers about potential health risks to select populations, including pregnant women, caused by old formulations of Airborne that contained potentially elevated levels of vitamin A. The company has since significantly reduced the vitamin A levels. The $7 million payment is the largest payment to date in a multistate settlement with a dietary supplement producer. Floridas share of the $7 million is $460,000, which will go toward future monitoring and enforcement in this area. Under the settlement, the company and the McDowells have agreed not to make any express or implied claims concerning the health benefit, performance, efficacy, or safety of their products, unless the claim can be substantiated by competent and reliable scientific evidence. The settlement is the last of three settlements involving similar claims regarding the older advertising and labeling of Airborne dietary supplements. |
| published date: 12-09-2008 |
Nordic Naturals Defends Cod Liver Oil In Light of Vitamin A StudyWATSONVILLE, CANordic Naturals defended its cod liver oil products as posing no threat to consumers, the company said on December 1, in light of a report suggesting cod liver oil may be detrimental to humans due to its high vitamin A content.The initial report, titled: Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A Toxicity, Frequent Respiratory Infections, and the Vitamin D Deficiency Epidemic was published on November 11 in the Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Larynology by 16 members of the supplement fraternity. The issue that is cited by this group is based on the fact that almost all cod liver oil in the market is being supplemented with synthetic or natural vitamin A, standardized to certain levels, which is why it is assumed that all cod liver oil has high levels of vitamin A," said Karin Yien, MD, Nordic Naturals chief medical adviser. "This is not true for the Nordic Naturals brand. We have always had low, healthy levels of natural vitamin A in our cod liver oil; consequently, we do not add Vitamin A to any of our cod liver oil products. |
| published date: 12-04-2008 |
Vitamin D Intake to Come from Diet & Supplements, Advises AADSCHAUMBURG, IL The American Academy of Dermatology issued a statement on December 4 advising the public to obtain vitamin D from their diet and dietary supplements, rather than exposing themselves to UV radiation from the sun."Vitamin D is essential for optimal health, and the medical literature supports safe ways to get it -- a healthy diet which incorporates foods naturally rich in vitamin D, vitamin D-fortified foods and beverages, and vitamin D supplements," stated dermatologist C. William Hanke, MD, president of the American Academy of Dermatology. "And, according to the medical literature, unprotected exposure to UV radiation from sunlight (natural) or indoor tanning devices (artificial) is not safe. Individuals who intentionally expose themselves to UV radiation for vitamin D are putting their health at risk for developing skin cancer." |
| published date: 12-04-2008 |
FDA Definition of Whole Grains Limits Support for Heart Disease ClaimsBETHESDA, MD (November, 2008) Since 2005, FDA has allowed manufacturers to make health claims tying heart disease reduction to a diet rich in whole grains. Yet it was not until 2006 that FDA defined whole grains as the the intact, ground, cracked or flaked fruit of the grains whose principal componentsthe starchy endosperm, germ and branpresent in the same relative proportions as they exist in the intact grain.A new study by the Life Science Research Office announced on November 24, found that: The FDA definition for whole grains as a selection criterion to evaluate the scientific literature is limiting because most of the studies use a broader concept of whole grains. The few studies that meet the FDA whole grains definition provide insufficient scientific evidence to support a CVD health claim. A whole grains and CVD health claim is supported when a larger number of studies that use a broader concept of whole grain that includes isolated bran, germ or fiber in their analysis of whole grains are also considered. The scientific evidence on risk reduction of diabetes and whole grain consumption is suggestive, but not conclusive, whether or not the study meets the FDA definition of whole grains. This type of analysis is complicated by the diversity in nutrients and bioactive components of different types of whole grains. The results of the study are part of an LSRO report titled, Whole Grain Intake and Cardiovascular Disease and Whole Grain Intake and Diabetes: A Review. |
| published date: 11-25-2008 |
Silliker Receives NIH/NCCAM GrantHOMEWOOD, ILSilliker, Inc. has received a grant to study the allicin bioavailability of garlic products, the company announced on November 24.Allicin is the main, active compound of garlic that is known to provide the most health benefits. The $599,500 award was been granted by the National Institute of Health and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NIH/NCCAM; Bethesda, MD), and will cover a minimum two-year period. Most garlic supplements have allicin levels of about 3-15 percent, compared to 100 percent in raw garlic. Without clinical research, however, it is difficult to make advancements in the field. The conclusions of the study, Silliker stated, will address three main goals: 1) An understanding of what type of supplements should be used in a clinical trial and in what form it should be consumed. 2) How results can be extrapolated to crushed raw garlic. 3) Provide supplement manufacturers with a correct standard for the design and evaluation of garlic supplements." This is the third grant Silliker has received from NIH and NCCAM. |
| published date: 11-25-2008 |
Gencor Receives Frost & Sullivan Award for SlimalumaHONG KONGGencor Pacific received a Frost & Sullivan (Palo Alto, CA) award for its weight management supplement, Slimaluma, the company announced on November 21.Gencor received the Global Appetite Suppressant and Satiety Ingredients Product Innovation of the Year award. Gencor Pacific Groups Slimaluma is a unique ingredient that has been scientifically validated for its efficacy and safety in human consumption, said Frost & Sullivan analyst Natalie Watt. A weight management ingredient like Slimaluma is critical for the success of the weight management industry, which seeks to control the ever-increasing global obesity epidemic. |
| published date: 11-21-2008 |
Omega-3 Content Confuses Consumers, Says GOEDSALT LAKE CITYConsumers knows omega-3s are good for them, but thats about all they know on the topic, said the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3 (GOED; Salt Lake City)."Omega-3" is too broad to a term, GOED said, because it refers to three separate fatty acids -- EPA, DHA and ALA -- which do not perform in the same way. "Consumers don't understand what it is," said Vivian Tysse, sales manager of Denomega (Norway). ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), derived from plant sources such as flaxseed, can be labeled "omega-3", although it does not have the same nutritional content as EPA and DHA. "Consumers don't really get the difference...it's EPA and DHA that your body really needs," said Ian Lucas, vice president of innovation and strategy at Ocean Nutrition Canada (Nova Scotia). "Consumers need to be informed and make their own choice," said Philip Fass, executive director of industry and commercial relations at Martek Biosciences (Columbia, MD). |
| published date: 11-20-2008 |
Martek Reach 100 DHA ProductsColumbia, MDMartek Biosciences Corporation announced the launch of two new products containing "life'sDHA," a polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid found in the body. The company subsequently reached 100 products containg DHA, Martek announced on November 18.A growing number of experts around the world are recognizing the importance of DHA for healthy brains, eyes and hearts. They are also recognizing that most people's diets do not include adequate amounts of DHA," said Steve Dubin, Martek's CEO. Fish are often incorrectly thought to be the only source of DHA omega-3. However, life'sDHA offers a vegetarian form of DHA containing no known toxins. "By looking for the life'sDHA logo on food and beverage packages, consumers can be sure they are buying products with a trusted, sustainable, vegetarian source of DHA," Dubin said. |
| published date: 11-19-2008 |
PRI Expands Warehouse SpaceCITY OF INDUSTRY, CA Pacific Rainbow International (PRI) will double its warehouse and office space, the company announced on November 18.This expansion will enable us to dramatically increase on-site inventory of our most popular ingredients, said Herman Zhang, PRI president. In addition, it will give us the capability to inventory new ingredients we dont normally stock. |
| published date: 11-18-2008 |
Ecuadorian Rainforest to Host WebinarBELLEVILLE, NJ Ecuadorian Rainforests vice president of marketing, Steve Siegel, will conduct a Nutraceuticals 2009 webinar on December 11th, 2008 at 2:00pm. The seminar will look at a new year full of new ingredients, new trends and an ever changing economy, the company said.The event is free; register by clicking the link below: http://www.intotherainforest.com/webinar |
| published date: 11-18-2008 |
Soy Link to Lower Cholesterol Confirmed, Says SolaeNEW ORLEANS Solae, a soy ingredient supplier, presented a study confirming soy consumptions link to lower cholesterol at the American Heart Association 2008 Scientific Sessions on November 10.These findings build on the body of evidence that continues to strongly justify maintaining the currently approved health claim for the role of soy protein in lowering heart disease risk, said Priscilla Samuel, PhD, director of Nutrition at Solae, and lead researcher of the study. According to the American Heart Association, at a population level for every 1 percent reduction in blood cholesterol there is a 2-3 percent reduction in the rate of coronary heart disease which is still the leading cause of death in the United States. Our research confirms that consuming soy protein is one way to reduce total cholesterol. Solaes research team reviewed over 150 studies using the FDAs 2007 evidence-based guidance for scientific evaluation of health claims, the company said. The meta-analysis found reductions in total blood cholesterol of 9.54 mg/dL and reductions in LDL cholesterol of 7.12 mg/dL. Results showed consuming 25 grams of soy protein per day results in significant reduction in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. |
| published date: 11-18-2008 |
Ginkgo Biloba Does Not Prevent Dementia, Study ConcludesGinkgo biloba does not eliminate or prevent the progression of dementia or Alzheimer's, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Chicago).The study enrolled 3,069 people between the ages of 75 and 96; half took a placebo while the other half took 240 milligrams a day of the ginkgo extract EGb 761, the extract used in products sold by Nature's Way (Springville, Utah). At the end of the study, 277 people who took ginkgo were diagnosed with dementia, compared with 246 in the placebo group. The study also says the ginkgo group had 257 cases of Alzheimer's, compared to 220 in the placebo group. "No one is more disappointed that we didn't have any traction in slowing down the disease than the group that did the study," said Steven T. DeKosky MD, the neurologist who led the trial. "We did show it was fairly safe -- that is of some reassurance," said DeKosky, also dean of the University of Virginia Medical School. He said the only harm from gingko could be "spending money on something that may not be useful." French researchers are currently using a much larger study pool-- 2,854 people over the age of 70 already suffering from memory problems. The results of that clinical trial will be available in 2010. "That may show an effect that was missed in this study," said Maria C. Carrillo, director of medical and scientific relations for the Alzheimer Association (Chicago). But Lon S. Schneider MD, a geriatric psychiatrist at USC (Los Angeles) said theres no doubt that antioxidants protect neurons, however we can make it work in animals, but we can't seem to make this work in humans." |
| published date: 11-18-2008 |
Long-Term Use of Vitamins C, E Do Not Prevent Cancer, Study ConcludesPHILADELPHIA Long-term use of Vitamins C and E do not prevent cancer, concluded the Physicians' Health Study II, the American Association for Cancer Research (Philadelphia) announced on November 16.The study included 14,641 physicians, who were given either a placebo or 400 IU of vitamin E every other day; or 500 mg of vitamin C daily or its placebo. Researchers followed these patients for up to 10 years. "After nearly 10 years of supplementation with either vitamin E or vitamin C, we found no evidence supporting the use of either supplement in the prevention of cancer," said Howard D. Sesso, MPH., an assistant professor of medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital. "While vitamin E and C supplement use did not produce any protective benefits, they also did not cause any harm," he added. Study co-author J. Michael Gaziano, MD, associate professor of medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital and VA Boston, said, "Individual vitamin supplements such as vitamin E and C do not appear to provide the same potential advantages as vitamins included as part of a healthy, balanced diet." "Our results represent one of only a few clinical trials that have tested this idea, Sesso said. The final component of the Physicians' Health Study II, testing daily multivitamin supplementation, remains ongoing." |
| published date: 11-17-2008 |
InterHealth Receives ISO CertificationBENICIA,CA - InterHealth Nutraceuticals has received its ISO 9001:2000 certification, the company announced on November 14.An ISO certification provides assurance on good management practice by an independent body. "Our customers see a real benefit in the quality of our products and services and ability to respond efficiently to their need," said Paul Dijkstra, InterHealth CEO. InterHealth's ingredients are used in over 600 nutritional supplements, functional foods and beverages distributed in more than 30 countries worldwide. |
| published date: 11-14-2008 |
Jarrow Formulas Donates to AIDS ProjectLOS ANGELES Jarrow Formulas has given about 1,650 bottles of vitamins to the Necessities of Life Program, a part of AIDS Project Los Angeles, the company announced on November 13.The bottles included the company's ToxGuard Colon PF and Hemp Seeds prouduct. Jarrow Formulas and its associates have really opened their hearts to the people that have suffered so much, said Mark Becker, communications director for Jarrow. "We want to do everything in our power to help. The company has previously donated to the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan and Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma. |
| published date: 11-13-2008 |
Vitamins C and E Not Beneficial in Heart Disease Prevention, Study ConcludesBOSTONVitamins C and E were not effective in preventing cardiovascular disease in males, concluded the Physicians Health Study II that will be published in the November 12 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association."(The vitamins) showed no trends that reached significance, except for an increase in hemorrhagic stroke among vitamin E users that was only marginally significant at p=.02, said J. Michael Gaziano, MD, associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School (Boston). The study included 14,641 physicians, with a mean age of 64. This was a very healthy population, Gaziano noted. Participants received a placebo or 400 IU vitamin E every other day. While the studys participants only included Caucasian men, smaller vitamin E trials did not show a gender difference. Effects of the study will continue for an additional 3 years, Gaziano reported. This was a high-quality, long-term nutritional trial, and we dont have many of these, said Barbara V. Howard, PhD, Medstar Research Institute (Hyattsville, MD). We do need data in other racial groups, but it is very unlikely there will be differences. The other issue that will be raised is the type of formulation, Howard said. I think most nutritionists would feel that it is highly unlikely that you could suddenly find a specific vitamin formulation that would be beneficial. In response to the study, Andrew Shao of the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington DC.) released this statement: Although the results did not demonstrate an overall benefit, the results also do not discount the earlier epidemiological data showing that people with high intakes of vitamins E and C may have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Nutrition research is extremely complex, and doesnt always provide clear cut answers. This study raises an interesting set of scientific challenges as to why the benefits found in observational studies have not been confirmed in this kind of trial. Annette Dickinson, PhD past president of CRN, said, These results do not of course negate other evidence of benefits for vitamin E and vitamin C for other conditions, including immune function, mental acuity, and eye health. Consumers would be well advised to ensure adequate intakes of all essential nutrients through a good diet plus use of a multivitamin, and selected other nutrients including vitamins E and C, vitamin D, calcium, and EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids. Dickinson added that the possible effect of vitamin E on increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke may have been a matter of chance. |
| published date: 11-10-2008 |
Chromadex, Cargill Partner for Stevia Quality-ControlIRVINE, CAChromaDex and Cargill (Wayzata, MN) have partnered to standardize the quality of stevia-related products, ChromaDex announced on November 10.Since there was previously no standard to evaluate stevia-based products, new analytical reference methods will provide industry standards set for rebiana, the company said. Not all stevia sweeteners are created equal, and it will be important for companies using stevia ingredients to select the right standards and analytical methods in differentiating products that meet requirements for food use, said Frank Jaksch, co-founder of ChromaDex. For rebiana, we not only developed the specifications for this new sweetener, but we also created the methods and systems to insure that our product is consistent said Zanna McFerson, business director of Truvia, Cargills new rebiana sweetener. |
| published date: 11-10-2008 |
SourceOne Partners with Nutri Pharmaceuticals in Powder TechnologyLAS VEGAS SourceOne (Chicago) has partnered with Nutri Pharmaceuticals Research to develop powder forms of Sources products with the hopes to broaden the companys appeal in the nutritional market.Both companies share the same vision for delivering greater value and broader functionality of exceptional health and wellness ingredients and formulas through innovative application technology. We like to say that we transform good ingredients into great ingredients, said NPRI CEO, Godfrey Yew. This new partnership will allow SourceOne to alter the form of products like CoQsource Coenzyme Q10 and OmegaChoice Concentrated Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) in free-flowing powders, using NPRIs oil-to-powder technology, according to Jesse Lopez, SourceOne CEO. The synergies created by these partnerships are directly and immediately applicable to SourceOne ingredients and formulas in various forms and concentrations, said Lopez. |
| published date: 11-06-2008 |
MGP Ingredients Decrease Protein and Starch ProductionATCHISON, KNMGP Ingredients will reduce wheat and starch production at its facility in Atchison, effective Nov. 12. As a result, MGP will discontinue manufacturing operations in Pekin, Illinois, the company said.We have been very straightforward about our strategy to strengthen MGP Ingredients by becoming a more customer-centric, and therefore less production-driven supplier of value-added products , said Tim Newkirk, MGP CEO. Our decision to exit our protein and starch operations in Pekin and concentrate our efforts on the production of value-added ingredient solutions at our Atchison, Kansas plant represents another critical step toward achieving this goal. The closure of operations will result in lay-offs and early retirement offers, the company said. ConAgra Mills will supply the companys protein and starch ingredients, MGP previously announced on October 20. Although recent economic conditions have caused us to accelerate some of these decisions, they all stem from an exhaustive business analysis spanning our entire enterprise...even though we anticipate an operating loss for the year, every facet of our organization will aim to return the company to profitable operations in the fourth quarter while ensuring proper alignment with our strategic focus going forward, Newkirk added. |
| published date: 11-06-2008 |
WCFN Winners AnnouncedVANCOUVER, BCWinners of the Western Canadian Functional Food & Natural Health Product Networkk (WCFN) were announced on November 3.Recipients are Kelley Fitzpatrick, President of NutriTech Consulting and Director of Nutrition at Flax Canada 2015, Solo GI Nutrition (Edmonton, AB), Manitoba Food Processors Association (Winnipeg, Ontario), and Advanced Foods and Materials Network (AFMNet; Guelph, Ontario). Awards will be presented during the WCFN Conference in Winnipeg on November 24. |
| published date: 11-05-2008 |
Kemin Health Wins AwardBARCELONA Slendesta won the award for MostInnovative Slimming Ingredient" at the Ingredientes Adelgazantes Espaa 2008 conference held from October 2-3 in Spain. Isabel Farinha, marketing manager of the company, said, "Receiving this award is recognition of the innovative properties of Kemin Healths new ingredient. It opens a wealth of opportunities for Slendesta, not only in Spain, but all over the world. For many, this will be the first glimpse of Slendesta's amazing potential as a health ingredient." |
| published date: 11-05-2008 |
Dow to Introduce Weight Care Technology at HiEMIDLAND, MICHDow will introduce new weight care technology at the Health Ingredients Europe (HiE) show in Paris, the company said on November 4.SATISFITTM Weight Care Technology promoted healthy fat metabolism and reduced weight gain in pre-clinical studies, the company said. SATISFIT is targeted to aid in the development of foods that can satisfy in taste and texture, while also being compatible with consumers goals for fitness and healthy eating, said Stephanie Lynch, global marketing manager for Food & Nutrition. The new technology is fully soluble, process-tolerant, and does not add calories. |
| published date: 11-05-2008 |
Fortitech Launches New Initiative to Battle MalnutritionSCHENECTADY, NY Helping support the battle against global malnutrition, Fortitech announced the launch of the World Initiative for Nutrition (WIN) on November 4. WIN will work with governmental and non-governmental organizations, ingredient suppliers, local food mills and manufacturers to develop and deliver tailored nutritional solutions."The message we want to convey through WIN is that nutrition is not the problem, it is the solution, said Franoise Chom, director of WIN. "Food fortification not only impacts the health of the individual, but the health and economic wellbeing of the nations and communities to which they belong. "I think one of WIN's greatest strengths is its ability to deliver innovative, cutting-edge solutions that may not be apparent upon first glance of a project, said Walt Borisenok, president and |