Ask the Expert

The sexual wellness ingredient category has historically been developed for men first, with women's formulations added later and supported by thinner clinical data. Viraj Patel, Joint Managing Director at K. Patel Phyto Extractions, sat with Nutritional Outlook to describe a single-ingredient Ayurvedic botanical extract evaluated in men and women. This study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 100 healthy adults over 9 weeks. Women assessed with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) improved 70% from baseline versus 20% on placebo, with gains in desire, arousal, and overall sexual function. Men assessed with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) also improved, with outcomes reaching statistical significance against the placebo. Patel demonstrates how one ingredient and one data package can support both a women's and men's sexual health formulation.

Shaheen Majeed, Global CEO and Managing Director of Sabinsa, shares how the longevity category is positioned to close the gap between consumer expectations and product performance. Drawing on decades of ingredient science, Majeed outlines the biological targets, formulation strategies, and communication approaches that separate credible longevity products from hype-driven ones. With these insights, formulators and brand managers can create a roadmap for building trust and products that last.

In a crowded collagen marketplace, clinical validation and multifunctional formulations have become the clearest path to meaningful product differentiation. Adam Ishaq, vice president of BioCell Technology, LLC, explores the evolving collagen ingredient market and explains what's driving demand for clinically validated, multifunctional formulations. Ishaq highlights how BioCell Collagen®, a naturally occurring matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type II, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid, is meeting growing consumer expectations for science-backed beauty and joint health solutions. He also introduces BioCell Collagen® ERP, a newly developed version optimized for gummies, chewables, and other sensory-forward delivery formats.

Martin Walter explores the evolving science of musculoskeletal wellness, from collagen’s foundational role in bone and cartilage health to the innovative formulation strategies shaping the next generation of supplements. As demographic shifts and a growing focus on proactive, preventive health expand the bone and joint category beyond traditional calcium and vitamin D, clinically supported collagen peptides are opening new possibilities in this fast-growing market.

New research highlights the effects of aged garlic extract on testosterone and vascular function.

Next-generation sequencing and metabolomics are redefining how researchers view the microbiome’s influence on whole-body wellness, extending beyond gut health to include the skin, scalp, and even mood. Aleksander Richards, Director of Clinical R&D at Vidya Herbs, discusses novel clinical work exploring the scalp microbiome, as well as how combining probiotics with botanicals can drive synergistic benefits. This emerging research demonstrates the industry’s shift toward multiomics-driven insights that connect microbial balance with functional outcomes in beauty and wellness.

Learn expert insights on navigating ingredient quality tiers, preventing adulteration, and turning premium ingredients into a competitive advantage.

Powered by plant-based polyphenols, VitAlign is redefining antioxidant innovation—supporting energy, immunity, and longevity through multi-pathway cellular optimization.

How Gnosis by Lesaffre is growing its Quatrefolic® family with an innovation answering formulators’ needs.

Through research-driven product development, ethical sourcing, and strategic partnerships, Sabinsa is delivering science-backed solutions to meet rising global demand for multifunctional and sustainable nutraceuticals

Bret Barhoover leads Cargill’s specialized nutrition marketing efforts in North America. He previously held leadership roles at General Mills and holds an MBA from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.