All news articles for January 2007

New genome collaboration could boost Arla Foods' probiotic range

Arla Foods, Europe's second largest dairy company, has signed an agreement with US-based Integrated Genomics for access to the ERGO database and genomic discovery system to enhance the company's probiotic understanding.

Folic acid effects two-faced depending on B12 levels, says study

The effects of increased folic acid intake amongst the elderly may be a double-edged sword, with benefits and harm dependent on the person's vitamin B12 levels, says a new study.

Omega-3 and joint health - more support

Daily high-dose omega-3 supplements were found to decrease the severity of symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic disease that mainly affects joints of the spine and hips.

FSA seeking opinions on astaxanthin, phytosterol

The UK Food Standard Agency's expert advisory committee on novel foods is consulting on draft opinions on applications on the substantial equivalence of two novel ingredients.

Neptune sees increase in sales as NKO gains recognition

Neptune Technologies & Bioressources's efforts to spread the word about Neptune Krill Oil and an internal reorganisation are paying off, as the Canadian manufacturer has reported a significant increase in sales and a decrease in operating loss for the second quarter of 2007.

Whey protein gel particles - the future of probiotic encapsulation?

Encapsulation of probiotics in whey protein gel particles could offer protection during processing and storage, as well as extending the food applications of the bacteria to biscuits, vegetable and frozen cranberry juice, indicates research from Canada.

Healthy chocolate gaining credence, Barry Callebaut

The results of a consumer survey on healthy chocolate suggests that the substance once considered solely as a sweet confectionery item has made huge strides towards the realm of health foods.

DSM builds further muscle in China with new Shanghai campus

DSM is to construct a new HQ complex in Shanghai, signalling an even greater commitment to China as it reaches towards its Vision 2010 goals for revenue from emerging economies.

DSM publishes fungus genome to help R&D into enzymes

Netherlands-based DSM has announced the publication of the full genome for the fungus Aspergillus niger used to produce a range of enzymes and other compounds for the food industry.

Magnesium for teenagers may boost bone health

Magnesium supplements during adolescence, a key time for bone formation, boosted bone health in 120 girls in the US - research that suggests the mineral could have long-term benefits.

Flavones and flavonols linked to lower kidney cancer risk

Increased intake of flavonoids, particularly, flavones and flavonols could cut the risk of kidney cancer by 32 and 31 per cent, respectively, says a new study from Italy.

Weekly comment

Deja Moo: Are we ready for cloned cattle?

Here we go again. Yet another technology in its infancy is likely to be introduced into the food supply, while industry remains cautious and consumers divided.

Vitamin D optimises bone density with bisphosphonates

Vitamin D supplements to raise blood levels of the vitamin could optimise the effects of bisphosphonates to maintain and improve bone density in post-menopausal women, says a new study.

Polinat acquires US company

Polifenoles Naturales (Polinat) is further extending its reach into the US market with the acquisition of National BioScience Corp. and the inking of an exclusive distribution agreement for its products with PL Thomas.

Pure juices can reduce disease risk, says review

Pure fruit and vegetable juices are generally regarded as healthy, despite containing less fibre than the whole fruit. A review of studies into their potential to reduce risk of chronic disease may serve to validate the popular perception and give more leverage in the functional drinks category.

New Scientist questions personalised nutrition testing

Companies offering personalised nutrition testing are jumping the gun because the science behind nutrigenomics is not enough to support the claims, says an article in New Scientist.

Capsugel glams up pills with pearly two-piece

Capsugel is introducing a new range of pearled two-piece capsules that it says can spruce up visually bland formulations, and is particularly suitable for image-conscious products like nutricosmetics.

Folic acid linked to reduced cleft lip in infants

Folic acid supplements during early pregnancy could reduce the risk of cleft lip in infants by 33 per cent, says a new study from Norway.

Austevoll completes EPAX acquisition

Austevoll has completed its acquisition of EPAX from Ferd Private Equity for an undisclosed sum, securing the omega-3 company's fish oil supply and enabling full traceability.

Calcium, vit. D may help cholesterol levels during weight loss

A combination of calcium plus vitamin D during weight loss in overweight and obese women could improve blood cholesterol levels, says new research from Canada.

Fibre could halve young women's breast cancer risk, says study

Pre-menopausal women who eat 30 or more grams of fibre a day could cut their risk of breast cancer by 52 per cent, says a UK-based epidemiological study.

EU to vote on widespread obesity action plan

The European Parliament is next month set to vote on a report that calls obesity a "European epidemic" and proposes that all countries implement certain measures to combat the growing condition.

NeutraHealth buys Brunel, consolidates industry presence

NeutraHealth has taken the next step in its bid to establish a solid and unified presence in the nutraceuticals industry with the acquisition of distributor Brunel Healthcare for £4m.

NutritionDay to gather data on hospital food

NutritionDay 2007 is today turning the spotlight on nutrition care of patients in hospitals across Europe and the impact of disease-related mortality on hospital stay lengths and mortality rates.

Russian market ready for take-off, says Orafti

Orafti is expecting considerable growth in sales of its Beneo prebiotic ingredients in Russia, after six years of ground work and building up recognition in the local marketplace.

Vitamins C and E linked to lower kidney cancer risk

Increased intake of the antioxidant vitamins C and E could cut the risk of kidney cancer by 28 and 44 per cent, respectively, says a new study from Italy.

Scientists explore targeted future for pro-, prebiotics

University of Leeds scientists are giving an insight into a possible future of pro and prebiotics with GM probiotic bacteria that can stimulate the immune system when 'switched on' by specific prebiotic sugar.

Commission adopts fruit & veg reforms

The European Commission has adopted the EU agriculture minister's proposals to shake up the bloc's fruit and vegetable sector.

Naturex buys Hammer Pharma for €10m

Naturex is strengthening its presence on the European plant extract scene with the acquisition of Italy's Hammer Pharma for €10m - a move that also marks in earnest its entry to the world of pharmaceutical ingredients.

BASF builds bioavailability data behind Solu Q10

Germany-based BASF has reported that its solubilizate co-enzyme Q10, Solu Q10, has excellent bioavailability, compared to a small number of other delivery forms for the nutrient.

Peptides with oligosaccharides a new area for prebiotics?

A new collaborative industry research project proposed by Leatherhead and The University of Reading could open up more opportunities for peptides and oligosaccharides used in combination to promote growth of probiotic bacteria in the gut.

Vitiva offers PUFA protection with rosemary extract

Vitiva is introducing a natural rosemary-based ingredient called SyneROX 4 that is intended to protect sensitive PUFA oils from degradation during processing and storage.

UK survey targets food allergy awareness

Allergy UK has come out fighting against claims that food allergy and intolerance are "all in the mind".

Selenium pills may slow HIV progression, says study

Daily selenium supplements, in combination with traditional anti-retroviral therapy, may control the viral load associated with HIV and boost the numbers of immune cells, says research.

Weekly Comment

Death to the industry conspiracy theories!

Here we go again. Industry-sponsored studies into the nutritional benefits of food and drink products are biased. Don't believe anything that has an industry sponsor.

Leatherhead proposes microencapsulated probiotics research

Leatherhead is proposing a collaborative industry study to assess microencapsulation systems for preserving probiotic bacteria and boosting their effectiveness in the gut, a keen area of interest for companies looking to lead the curve towards next generation products.

Reviews highlight infants' need for zinc, iron

Young children may be at risk of iron and zinc deficiencies as they are weaned off milk or formula, according to two reports that may highlight opportunities in products formulated to meet the nutritional needs of older infants.

Weekly Comment

Death to the industry conspiracy theories!

Here we go again. Industry-sponsored studies into the nutritional benefits of food and drink products are biased. Don't believe anything that has an industry sponsor.

Caffeine may halve pain after exercise - study

Having a caffeine supplement, equivalent to about two cups of coffee, an hour before exercise may reduce muscle pain afterwards by 48 per cent, says researchers.

Vitaene C brand awareness - is it all hot air?

As marketing strategies for health drinks go, they don't get much bigger than NTDE's plan to enter the Guinness book of records with an 8-storey balloon in the shape of a Vitaene C drink bottle.

Folic acid may slow cognitive decline in old age

Older people taking folic acid supplementation had improved memory and ability to process information, as well as a slower rate of age-related cognitive decline, says a study from the Netherlands.

EFSA panel says PEGs are safe for supplements

EFSA's scientific panel has an opinion that the use of polyethylene glycol as film coating for food supplements at six grades would not present a risk at proposed levels, which will be used to inform the EC's decision on whether to modify the relevant directive.

Barry Callebaut investigates Acticoa for ageing, longevity

Barry Callebaut is venturing down avenues of research that would allow it to market its Acticoa chocolate on an ant-ageing and longevity platform.

Correct version of health and nutrition claims legislation published

The final and agreed text of the new health and nutrition claims legislation was published in the official journal of the European Commission yesterday, correcting the erroneous publication of the Council's common position at the end of December.

Nutrition to halt Alzheimer's gets boost - in fruit flies

Oxidative stress associated with dementia may be a cause and not an effect of Alzheimer's, suggests a study with fruit flies from the US.

Cauliflower gene could lead to more nutritious crops, says ARS

A gene from an orange cauliflower could be the key to making food crops more nutritious, according to US scientists.

Could simple apple pieces be probiotic carriers?

Simple apple pieces may be a simple and inexpensive method of supporting probiotics, as well as expanding the range of applications, suggests new research from Greece.

Nestlé, Phosphagenics plan human trials

Phosphagenics has release further details on its collaboration with Nestle Nutrition for the use of Phospha-E in foods metabolic syndrome, following the food giant's decision to exercise its option this week.

Report highlights differing approaches to dietary cholesterol

Most national dietary guidelines put the emphasis on reducing saturated and total fat to combat high blood cholesterol, shows a new study, while the US alone sets a limit on cholesterol consumption from food.

Omega-3-rich walnuts linked to improved bone health

Consuming food rich in the plant omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) like walnuts and flaxseed oil improved bone health, according to a small trial from the US.

NeutraHealth enters nutricosmetics field with Champneys

The latest deal of UK's NeutraHealth with Champneys Spa underscores that consumers are not just looking for external solutions to looking good - they are considering the effects of their nutrient intake too.

UHT treatment may reduce cholesterol-lowering effects of soy

Ultra high temperature (UHT) processing of soy beverages may result in products that actually raise LDL-cholesterol levels, according to new research from NutriPharma.

Fenchem gets novel foods go-ahead for Cholevel

Chinese ingredients supplier Fenchem has received novel foods notification for its Cholevel plant sterols in the EU, opening up the way for the ingredient's direct use in foods.

Natural is key to UK weight loss market, says Mintel

Consumers in the UK are seeking a more natural approach to weight management, according to Mintel, a trend that signals some of the latest ingredients in the sector could be right on the money.

Calcium offers prolonged protection from colorectal cancer, says study

The potential protective effects of calcium supplements against colorectal cancer may carry on for five years after people stop taking the supplements, research has revealed.

Tomato plus broccoli - added benefits for prostates?

Tomatoes and broccoli, independently known for their anti-cancer benefits, may have an extra effect against prostate cancer when both are part of the daily diet than when they're eaten alone, if results from an animal study can be replicated in humans.

Nestlé reports good safety data for symbiotics in infant formula

Formula containing both pro- and prebiotics is well tolerated and may have added benefits on weight gain in infants, says a new study sponsored by Nestlé.

Tate & Lyle offers nutrient-enriched, tasty prototypes

Tate & Lyle is introducing a new formulation service that facilitates the addition of nutrients to food products, but without compromising on taste - an all-important factor in persuading consumers to switch to healthier alternatives.

Sugar solution targets organic apple growth

The application of vinasse, a fermented waste product obtained from sugar processing, could help the organic apple industry eradicate a major source of disease.

Nestlé exercises Phospha-E option

Nestle has exercised its option to finalise its commercial agreement with Phosphagenics over the use of Phospha-E in specialised nutrition products for metabolic syndrome.

NutraCea takes rice bran into Australasia

NutraCea is moving in on opportunities for its stabilised rice bran in the Australia and New Zealand functional food market, signing a distribution agreement for its ingredients with Med-Chem.

Meta-analysis supports isoflavones for hot flushes

Supplementation of soy isoflavones to ease the symptoms of the menopause like hot flushes does have an effect, according to a meta-analysis from Australian researchers.

Cloudy apple juice four times healthier than clear

The polyphenol content of cloudy apple juice is four times greater than clear juice, says new research that could see a shift in consumer preference from clear to cloudy.

Weekly Comment

There aren't plenty more fish in the sea

As a youngster I was brought up on a healthy diet of tuna fish sandwiches and Disney - making my new year's resolution for 2007 the toughest yet. That's right, I'm giving up tuna and who knows, even cod.

Experts call for vitamin D level hike

The tolerable upper intake level for oral vitamin D3 should be increased five-fold, experts from the US-based Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has said after a review of the science.

Nestlé confirms interest in Novartis' Gerber

Nestle has confirmed its interest in buying Novartis' Gerber baby foods business, according to reports, and is aiming to increase sales from its nutrition division by 10 per cent.

Water 4 to introduce algae DHA/EPA as food ingredient

Water 4 Investment is conducting trials for food industry partners to use its microalgae-derived DHA and EPA oil in a broad range of products, as EU regulatory approval for the fish-oil alternative is expected this year.

Plum polyphenols to offer osteoporosis benefits?

Researchers in Florida are undertaking a clinical trial to test the role of dried plums in the bone health of postmenopausal women, research that has the potential to offer opportunities for functional food and supplement makers.

FSA publishes 'metals in food' findings

A UK survey of the concentrations of metals elements in a variety of ingredients suggests that estimated intakes do not pose a health threat.

Scientists report novel delivery system for SOD

Scientists in Georgia have reported successful lab tests of new polymer microparticles that show promise as a novel delivery system for the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD).

Glyceollins from soybeans may stop breast cancer cell growth

A compound produced by specially grown soybeans may prove to be successful in the prevention the growth and/or spread of breast cancer, says a new study.

Nutrition intervention trial looks promising for SEN kids

Preliminary results from an intervention trial that aimed to change eating habits in a UK school and provide an omega-3 supplement are positive with regards to behavioural benefits, says Foods for the Brain, and may spur further research.

Alltracel will soon announce bioactive functional foods deal

Alltracel says it expects to announce shortly a global alliance with a North American cardiovascular health specialist that take its cellulose fibre derived bioactive into the functional foods market for the first time.

Fish oil softgels get fruity with Bioriginal

Bioriginal is introducing a range of fruit-flavoured fish oils softgels, intended to make consumption of the healthy ingredients more appealing than standard supplements.

Fish stock concern could affect in consumption advice

The UK's Food Standards Agency may review its advice that people should eat at least two portions of fish a week for its health benefits, in the light of environmental concerns.

Could natural products reduce DVT risk in travellers?

Several natural products have yielded promising results in studies on their potential to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, particularly during air travel. Could they form a key step towards countering the life-threatening condition?

Chromium picolinate plus biotin may help diabetes control

A daily supplement of chromium picolinate and biotin improved glucose tolerance by 15 per cent, compared to placebo, says a new study from Yale University.

Probiotics improved colic in babies, says study

A daily probiotic dose of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri improved symptoms associated with infantile colic, says a new study from Italy.

Euro bodies build trade and regulatory ties with Japan

The bonds between the Japanese and European functional foods industries are strengthening, as industry and regulators recognise the mutual benefits of working together.

Milk in tea may hamper heart health benefits

The British way of drinking tea with milk may block the cardiovascular benefits of the catechins, according to a small study that highlights the need for nutrition studies to consider confounding factors from the surrounding food matrix.

Red faces in Brussels over health claims publication mix-up

Hammering out the health and nutrition claims regulation has been a long and emotion process, but the comedy of errors post-adoption reached new heights in December - with the publication of the wrong version.

Higher folate levels linked to lower Alzheimer's risk

An increased intake of folate by diet and supplements may halve the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, suggests new research from the US.

Integrity of industry-sponsored nutrition research questioned

Nutrition studies of beverages funded solely by industry are four to eight times more likely to report favourable conclusions for the sponsors than studies with no industry funding, say researchers from the US.

Nutra-pharma to converge for functional foods, says analyst

As the food industry is embracing technologies that have until now been the preserve of pharmaceuticals, such as nutrigenomics, metabolomics and nanotechnology, global regulations are being more closely aligned between the two categories of health products, according to Business Insights.

'Serious compromise' needed over EU nutrition labelling, report

Food industry and consumer groups are poles apart over the question of mandatory nutrition labelling, according to the results of a public consultation conducted last year, with government opinion somewhere between the two.

Weekly comment

FSA rules ok? The labelling rebellion

The battle of wills between the UK food watchdog and industry heavyweights over nutrition labelling threatens to destabilise the balance of power between industry and government.

Lycopene microcapsules for milk's vitamin protection

Lycopene, microencapsulated in gum arabic-sucrose capsules, slowed the degradation of vitamins A and D3 in skimmed milk by 45 per cent, says new research.

Olive oil linked to lower blood pressure

Moderate intake of olive oil, a mainstay of the Mediterranean diet, was successful in reducing the blood pressure of healthy men who don't usually eat a Med-type diet, suggests a new study.

Hungary makes OTC vitamins more available

The Hungarian Ministry of Health has today released a list of over-the-counter drugs including high-dose vitamins that can now be sold in the country's supermarkets and petrol stations, where previously they were available only in pharmacies.

Weight management trends for 2007

A diet is not just for January. Sure, the wagon-ride to a healthy weight is a bumpy one and some won't manage to cling on. But global government efforts to reduce the impact of the obesity crisis on public health are ongoing, and greater awareness is the cue for the food and supplements to innovate with products that can help people stay on the wagon.

Combination supplement may support weight management

A combination of catechins, caffeine, capsaicin and tyrosine were found to boost heat generation and energy expenditure without any adverse effects on blood pressure or heart rate, says a new study from Denmark.

Beta-carotene status dependent on total antioxidants

The blood levels of beta-carotene are tied to the total level of antioxidants, not solely to the carotenoid itself, says a new study that may help explain discrepancies in the science about the nutrient.

Salt reduction may have asthma benefits too, says review

Reducing salt intake may affect asthma severity and breathing in adults with the condition, says a joint Anglo-American review of the science.

Ocean Nutrition researches marine carotenoids, CoQ10

Ocean Nutrition Canada (ONC) is looking beyond its current focus of omega-3 ingredients, investigating marine microbial species to produce carotenoids and co-enzyme Q10.

Maximum levels for bioactives - the next regulatory step?

The possibility of setting maximum levels for bioactive substances in foods and supplements looks set to be a global regulatory theme for 2007, with the EC, several governments and the Codex committee considering the need for risk assessment - and the recent publication of a new report by IADSA.

Whole fat milk linked to lower weight gain

Women who regularly consumed at least one serving of full-fat diary every day gained about 30 per cent less weight than women who didn't, says a study from Sweden.

SCN seeks credibility for nutraceuticals with research deal

Scandinavian Clinical Nutrition (SCN) has signed a 10-year research grant agreement with the renowned Karolinska Institutet, which aims to emulate similar academic-industry partnerships for pharmaceuticals and boost credibility of nutraceuticals.

Trends 2007

Smoothie operators lead UK health binge

Smoothies are set to be the high street success story for the UK soft drinks industry over the next few years, figures suggest, harnessing a growing trend for healthy fast food.

Provexis seeks funding stop-gap for further Fruitflow development

Provexis is seeking to raise new funds to bolster its working capital, after depleting its coffers with the extended timeline for developing an advanced form of its Fruitflow technology.

Folic acid may prevent age-related hearing loss

Supplements of folic acid may prevent age-related hearing loss in older men and women, says a new double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial from the Netherlands.

Low-phytate dough promises better nutrition

US scientists have been examining newly-developed varieties of low-phytate, high-phosphorus wheat in order to assess its impact on baking quality, nutritional content and suitability for industrial bread production.

More support for beta-glucan's anti-diabetes benefits

Increasing the intake of the soluble fibre beta-glucan decreased the glucose and insulin response in overweight men, and could help reduce the risk of diabetes, says a new study.

Phytopharm, Unilever expect Hoodia product progress

Phytopharm and Unilever are expecting progress in their efforts to develop products using the active extract of Hoodia gordonii in 2007, and report they are satisfied with efforts to address the problem of ineffective weight-loss products purporting to be Hoodia.

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