New product round up: From stress-relieving herbs to protein snacks

Lubrizol Life Science Health (LLS Health) has launched a new sustainable, organic-certified, astaxanthin (a carotenoid found in freshwater microalgae), microencapsulated with spirulina (a type of algae) named Astagile microcapsules, with an aim to promote mental agility and support healthy ageing. 

To create the synergistic algae blend which aims to "maximise antioxidant capacity", LLS Health teamed with Neoalgae Micro Seaweeds Products, a research and development company in Spain dedicated to microalgae biotechnology.

“This new nootropic is an all-natural formula with superior stability,” ​explains Isabel Gomez, Global Marketing Manager of LLS Health’s Nutraceutical Business. “We’ve applied cutting-edge technology to ensure stability of the naturally occurring carotenoids, that coupled with our microencapsulation technology allows us to draw out the maximum antioxidant capacity and achieve full functional benefits, all while using less of the astaxanthin dose - enabling a more cost-efficient solution for those interested in preserving and enhancing their cognitive function.”​

The firm says the cognitive enhancement effects of Astagile - awarded organic certification from the EU COPAE governing body - include a boost in memory performance, cognition and learning capabilities, and provided antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection to the brain.

“Astaxanthin’s antioxidant activity is due to its highly conjugated structure,” ​describes David Padró, Manager of the Nutraceuticals Business of LLS Health. “However, it also makes it prone to instability and subsequent degradation during the manufacturing and storage process. This can lead to loss of biological activity, significantly limiting its use in nutraceutical applications.​

“Microencapsulation, in contrast, provides a stable, comprehensive solution to astaxanthin’s chemical instability and sensitivity to oxidation.”​ Gomez adds that the encapsulation of spirulina further enhances the antioxidant properties of astaxanthin, amplifying the benefits of both compounds. Recent in vitro​ studies attest to its high stability and superior antioxidant traits.

LLS Health cultivates its H. Pluvialis in a closed greenhouse under rigidly controlled environmental conditions via a two-stage culturing process to ensures the algae is free of contaminants or pollutants 

and results in a rich concentration of "pure, high value astaxanthin".

Synergistic herbs​

Supplements brand Terry Naturally has launched a new synergistic herbal supplement of Andrographis and Ashwagandha.

Also known as 'Indian echinacea', andrographis is a herb rich in compounds known as andrographolides, thought to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. This product uses the proprietary 'Andrographis EP80' ingredient which is said to delivers a high level of andrographolides.

Ashwagandha has been linked with reduced anxiety and stress, reducing depression, boosting fertility and testosterone in men, and even boosting brain function. This supplement contains the proprietary ingredient 'Ashwagandha EP35' created with a new and unique dairy-free process that concentrates the key compounds, called withanolides, up to seven times the level of standard ashwagandha, says the firm.

This formula has been created with a wide range of health applications including: Immune defense, stress reduction, energy endurance, stamina, recovery and focus.

Health conscious snacking​

Sports nutrition brand, Myprotein​ has launched new high protein snack products: Crispy Wafers, Nut Bars, and Chips.

The wafer bars are made from a blend of milk and whey protein isolate for those with a sweet tooth. They provide 15g of 

protein and 5g of sugar and are available in Chocolate and Vanilla flavour. While the Nut Bar is available in Vanilla Almond flavour and offers 12g of protein.

The MyProtein Chips come in at oless than 120 calories per bag, with natural flavouring and 14g of protein, available in salt&vinegar or Barbeque.

Pink plant powder​

Exberry Coloring Foods supplier GNT Group has added a new beetroot-based pink shade to its range of 'micronized powders' created to maximise the visual intensity of colour shades in certain applications.

According to the firm, the reduced particle size allows these colourings to create a homogeneous colour effect in solid mixes.

The range of colourings is made from fruit, vegetables and edible plants using gentle, physical processing methods and no chemical solvents. Joining the range - which already includes yellow, red, purple, blue, green and pink shades - the new Fiesta Pink addition is a pink shade with a hint of blue.

Made from beetroot and carrots, the new product is pH independent, offers good light stability and has a 24-month shelf life below 25⁰C.