Cranberry extract with higher anti-bacterial power
cranberry extract that it claims offers an increased level of
anti-microbial and antioxidant properties than the leading product
in the category.
Initial tests conducted by an independent laboratory found in a comparative analysis that NutriCran Bio-100 had a higher level of proanthocyanidins (PAC) than commercially available whole cranberry extracts, including the market leader, said Decas.
PACs, or condensed tannins, have been identified as the active component responsible for inhibiting the adhesion of certain bacteria to cell walls. This is the likely mechanism behind cranberry's ability to fight urinary tract infections. These are caused by bacteria in the stool and foods that alter the properties of the fecal bacterial flora may be able to reduce the risk of the disease.
Antioxidants in fruit are also thought to play a role in fighting disease.
Recent research in the US tested the effectiveness of cranberry juice cocktail in disabling a number of E. coli bacteria, some of which are resistant to certain drugs. Preventing UTIs could potentially reduce the use of antibiotics, and subsequently reduce further development of antibiotic resistance.
Market applications for NutriCran Bio-100 include nutritional supplements, functional foods and beverages and natural cosmetics.
"With the introduction of NutriCran Bio-100, DBS raises the bar among commercially available cranberry extracts for providing new levels of anti-microbial and antioxidant property strength," said Reza Ghaedian, vice president of science and technology at Decas Botanical Synergies.
Vitafoods takes place at the Palexpo centre in Geneva, Switzerland from 11-13 May 2004.
