PharmaNutrients takes two steps to boost position
the CLA market by filing the first structure-function claims for
the body composition benefits of its branded CLA (conjugated
linoleic acid) product CLA One.
It is also just weeks away from launching its new CLA DG (diglyceride) technology.
Combining fatty acid with a glycerol molecule, CLA DG was originally developed for food applications but since it was found to promote further weight loss the company plans to make it available to supplements manufacturers too.
Of the claims relating to CLA One, Dr Susie Rockway, director of research and development at PharmaNutrients, said: "CLA research has moved from its initial discovery as a potent anti-carcinogen, to now where we are seeing results that CLA reduces body fat stores while preserving and increasing muscle mass."
The claims for CLA One, worded so as to be easy for consumers to understand, are that it reduces body fat; maintains lean body mass; and CLA increases lean body mass. The company lists on its website a number of studies published in peer review journals, which it says support these claims.
"The characteristic of CLA to 'save' muscle tissue while burning fat calories provides a healthy, complementary approach to dieting and exercise. Increasing muscle mass, a highly metabolic tissue, increases tone and promotes a better ability to utilize calories," added Rockway.
Company president Mark Nottoli told NutraIngredients-USA.com that the company is presently awaiting the results of tests which it hopes will allow it to file more structure-function claims in mid 2005.
Earlier this month PharmaNutrients was granted a new patent for its combination of CLA with glucosamine and ascorbic acid, used to address inflammation-related disorders.
In May 2004 it unveiled Fembiance, a blend of CLA One and Neptune Krill oil aimed at relieving many of the physiological and emotional symptoms of PMS, such as irritability, depression and menstrual pain.
CLA One is the only CLA product produced in the United States, according to the company. It is derived from natural safflower oil and has an action similar to that of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil.
Suggested health benefits of CLA include helping to maintain a healthy heart and veins, healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels and anti-oxidant and anti-atherogenic properties.
