Each month we prepare a roundup of interesting news, new clinical studies, and new product launches in the industry.
Industry News Roundup – May 2024
31st May 2024
Research
Short-term use of Brainberry improves cognitive performance, study finds
Solabia Nutrition has published novel clinical data on the effect of Brainberry in supporting cognitive function, showing a significant improvement in psychomotor speed and BDNF levels after 1 week of supplementation. Brainberry was the first Aronia melanocarpa extract clinically tested in an earlier double-blind placebo-controlled trial. In the first trial, Brainberry intake resulted in significant improvement in focus and psycho-motor control and an increase in cognitive flexibility.
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NXT USA’s Digexin blend improves digestive health and mood, new research finds
The results of a recent double-blind, randomized clinical study show that Digexin alleviates functional constipation, reduces gastrointestinal (GI) transit time, and improves bowel function, quality of life, and mental health.
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Grains of paradise can enhance mental wellbeing and sleep quality, new study shows
Nektium’s new Vanizem botanical extract can significantly improve mood, reduce stress levels, and enhance sleep quality within just three days, a pilot study has found. Created from the West African spice Aframomum melegueta, the ingredient can be used to create mood-boosting supplements and other products without any sedative effects.
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Cucumber extract can improve joint health and muscle function, study finds
The new cucumber extract (Cucumis sativus L.) CuberUp, by botanical extracts and natural active substances producer Euromed, has been shown to relieve joint pain and improve muscle function in a double-blind clinical study. The study will be presented at the 14th Congress of Phytotherapy of the Spanish Society of Phytotherapy.
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Phynova study reveals ‘real meal’ blood sugar benefits with low dose Reducose
Researchers from Oxford Brookes Centre for Nutrition and Health, UK, and ingredient supplier Phynova Group Limited conducted the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, repeat-measure, crossover design trial to test the efficacy of Reducose. A total of 37 healthy individuals (men and women aged 18-56) completed the study. Participants consumed capsules containing either 200 mg, 225 mg, 250 mg Reducose, or placebo before a test meal consisting of 150 g white bread and egg mayo filler. Capillary blood samples were collected at 15-minute intervals in the first hour and at 30-minute intervals over the second and third hours to determine glucose and plasma insulin levels. The consumption of all three doses of Reducose resulted in significantly lower blood glucose and plasma insulin levels compared to placebo. All three doses (200 mg, 225 mg, 250 mg) of Reducose significantly lowered glucose iAUC 120 by 30%, 33% and 32%, respectively, compared with placebo. All three doses significantly lowered the plasma insulin iAUC 120 by 31% (p = 0.024), 34% (p = 0.004), and 38% (p < 0.001), respectively.
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Cellf 2.0 boosts availability of cellular health support
Mikra Cellular Sciences, a subsidiary of Canada-based Lifeist Wellness, has partnered with Virun NutraBiosciences to evolve its nutraceutical gel for cellular health support. The new Cellf 2.0 version launched this month, packaging its CoQ10, Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ), and glutathione ingredients in a liposomal delivery system with an enhanced taste and price point. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that 20 mg per day for 12 weeks improved composite and verbal memory.
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SunActive studies impact of emulsified microsomal iron in pregnancy
In a new Indian study, researchers investigated the safety and effectiveness of 30 mg SunActive Fe emulsified microsomal ferric pyrophosphate (EMFP) tablets for treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in second-trimester pregnant women. After the intervention, the researchers found that subjects’ serum ferritin levels [which are directly related to the amount of iron in the body] increased 6.61-fold. Serum iron also increased by 46.9%. Adverse symptoms like irritability and heartburn were reduced while subjects reported less overall fatigue.
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Zoe hails personalized nutrition trial success, results come under scrutiny
Zoe has announced the results of its long-awaited trial comparing its personalized dietary program (PDP) to standard healthcare advice, but the publication has drawn criticism over methodology and results. The researchers from the UK-based personalized nutrition firm compared the impact of the program to general advice provided on cardiometabolic health in 347 participants over 18 weeks. Primary outcome results published in the journal Nature Medicine showed a significant reduction in triglycerides (TGs) in comparison to the control group, however, differences in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were insignificant. For the researchers, the results were positive thanks to secondary outcomes such as improvements in body weight, waist circumference, microbiome diversity, and quality of life scores, leading them to conclude that a personalized nutrition program that addresses metabolic heterogeneity is effective in improving cardiometabolic health in generally healthy individuals. Published in Nature.
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New launches
DSM-Firmenich introduces first “biotic” vitamin, Humiome B2
DSM-Firmenich will launch Humiome B2, claimed to be the world’s first “biotic” vitamin, at Vitafoods Europe (14-16 May). The ingredient is designed to ensure targeted vitamin B2 delivery to the colon, delivering prebiotic-like benefits that modulate and nourish the gut microbiome to support gut barrier integrity, immunity, mental well-being, and metabolic health. According to DSM-Firmenich, Humiome B2 releases around 90% of vitamin B2 in the lower intestine and colon – home to 90% of the body’s microbiota – while the remaining 10% is utilized through absorption in the small intestine. This is possible through the company’s IP-protected Microbiome Targeted Technology, a dual-action colon-targeted delivery system featuring an innovative 2-layer natural coating to protect against digestive enzymes and low pH, and the stomach and small intestine’s acidic environment.
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Nexira launches metabolic health ingredient innovation
At Vitafoods Europe (14-16 May), Nexira unveiled Inavea Cinnamon & Acacia, an organic and carbon-neutral prebiotic for glycemia modulation or blood glucose management. The new ingredient is a combination of Acacia fibre and cinnamon extract standardized to 25% polyphenols. Nexira says research supports Inavea Cinnamon & Acacia’s prebiotic activity, showing the combination modulates the gut microbiota, significantly increases short-chain fatty acids such as propionate, and promotes the growth of healthy bacteria such as Parabacteroides distasonis. Propionate (defined as a salt or ester of propionic acid) and P. distasonis are said to be recognized healthy markers of metabolic health. In addition, an in vivo study showed a synergistic effect of the ingredient with a positive and significant modulation of glycemia and insulinemia. Inavea Cinnamon & Acacia is said to be suitable for a wide range of dietary supplement applications and functional food & beverages.
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Mibelle addresses aging with new ingredients
Mibelle Biochemistry has introduced two new ingredients with healthy aging and anti-ageing potential:
MonaJuventa Nu – a so-called healthy aging ingredient derived from Monarda didyma (scarlet beebalm), said to be rich in the antioxidant flavonoid didymium. In cellular tests, MonaJuventa Nu prevented epigenetic aging, telomere shortening, and senescent cell accumulation; protected against oxidative stress; and was linked with an improvement in mitochondrial dysfunction. It can be used in healthy aging supplements, as well as rejuvenation and longevity products.
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PhytoCellTec Md Nu – an anti-aging apple fruit cell culture extract said to boost skin stem cell vitality and improve skin density, elasticity, and firmness. The vegan and water-soluble ingredient is available in a powder form and is suitable for use in dietary supplements in tablets, capsules, gummies, and powder mixes. The European Food Safety Authority approved PhytoCellTec Md Nu as a Novel Food in 2023.
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Seed Health targets women’s health with new vaginal symbiotic
Microbial sciences company Seed Health has expanded into the women’s health space with a new synbiotic built on the research of renowned vaginal microbiome scientist Dr. Jacques Ravel. The VS-01 vaginal synbiotic is formulated with an ecology of three proprietary strains of Lactobacillus crispatus, which were identified from over 600 candidate probiotic strains for their superior efficacy in maintaining regulated pH and promoting stability in vaginal health.
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Partnerships, M&A
Beiersdorf partners Rubedo to address cellular ageing
Beiersdorf has agreed on a multi-year strategic partnership with Rubedo Life Sciences, a biotech company specializing in cellular senescence and anti-aging research, to develop innovative skincare products that address the effects of cellular aging. The companies will explore novel compounds derived from Rubedo’s research programmes, specifically targeting cellular senescence. Senescent cells accumulate with age and may contribute to age-related skin changes and pathologies. The compounds, which have senolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, will be sourced from Rubedo’s topical dermatology programme. Beiersdorf will conduct in vitro and in sillico studies and rigorous assessments of identified compounds, leading to in vivo human studies. Beiersdorf also joins Rubedo as a strategic investor, having participated in its recent Series A financing round via its Oscar & Paul Corporate Venture Capital Fund.
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Technology
Brightseed debuts newly improved microbiome discovery programme
Brightseed has expanded its innovation programmes, which are available to partners. The company has expanded its microbiome discovery programme to identify microbially-derived bioactives, as well as its AI capabilities to identify active compounds in nature. Through the introduction of Rapid Profiling and the company’s newly expanded microbiome capabilities, Brightseed is unlocking novel health insights for product development, whilst accelerating commercialization timelines for food, nutrition, and bioscience companies.
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US FDA approves Apple’s AFib history feature as medical device development tool
The Apple Watch’s Atrial Fibrillation History Feature is the first digital health technology qualified under the FDA’s Medical Device Development Tool programme, providing a non-invasive way to check estimates of AFib burden within clinical studies. The Apple Watch AFib History Feature, an FDA-cleared OTC software-only mobile medical app for people aged 22+ years with an AFib diagnosis, can be used as a biomarker test to help evaluate estimates of AFib burden as a secondary effectiveness endpoint within clinical studies intended to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of cardiac ablation devices. It is also designed to be used throughout the clinical study, both before and after cardiac ablation treatment, to monitor participants’ weekly estimate of AFib burden.
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Boots launches skin condition diagnosis service
Boots Online Doctor (Walgreens Boots Alliance) has launched a Skin Condition Diagnosis service. This offers patients access to expert advice and diagnosis of common skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, acne, and rosacea, without the need for a GP appointment. According to the British Skin Foundation, more than 70% of UK citizens have visible skin conditions or scars that affect their confidence. Boots Online Doctor skin services have seen a 68% increase in patients year-on-year, as demand for expert advice continues to soar. Costing £25 (US$31.82) per assessment, patients can log on to Boots Online Doctor and complete a questionnaire to provide a summary of their skin problems and health history. They can then upload three photographs using the new Boots Photo Diagnosis scanner and a Boots Online Doctor clinician will be in touch within 24 hours with a diagnosis, clinical advice, and recommended next steps.
Genomma launches influencer review platform
Genomma has launched Gamax, a digital platform that incentivizes social media influencers to review its products. Content creators are invited to apply to become one of Gamax’s 400 “digital entrepreneurs”, who will review Genomma’s products and be paid per interaction generated on social media. The company envisions that the platform will grow to incorporate more influencers as well as other marketers/brands in the future.
Marketing campaigns
Brain power challenge
Supplement brand BrainPromise by EyePromise has launched the Brain Power Challenge to promote brain health awareness and nutrition, with a daily chance to win an Amazon gift card until 30th June 2024. Containing 17+ vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, BrainPromise by EyePromise is designed for optimal brain health.
Haleon sponsorship
Haleon has leveraged its sponsorship deal with Botafogo football club to promote the launch; during the club’s match with Fortaleza on Mother’s Day in Brazil (12th May 2024), team members wore shirts emblazoned with Centrum Maternity’s logo alongside the name of their mother.
P&G to prominently feature brands at Paris 2024
P&G, a Worldwide Olympic & Paralympic Partner, plans to prominently feature its household and personal care brands during the Olympic & Paralympic Games Paris 2024. This includes Olympic-inspired brand marketing and in-store campaigns, brand-sponsored athlete partnerships, and complimentary products & services in the Athletes’ Village. Before and during Paris 2024, 30+ P&G brands will reach billions of consumers worldwide through relevant ways. These include:
- ZzzQuil’s Sleep Like an Everyday Champion campaign, promotes better sleep as the key to performing at your best
- Head & Shoulders Gold Medal Against Dandruff features the “I Don’t” campaign, demonstrating how the brand prevents dandruff with an Olympic Games-themed twist
- Oral-B’s Brush Like a Champion leverages the brand’s role as the Official Oral Care Products of Paris 2024 to promote the use of Oral-B for cleaner, stronger teeth
The Games are particularly relevant in the host region and for Paris 2024 P&G brands are activating in retail stores across Europe behind the Everyday Champions campaign, providing products that give their best every day to meet the household and personal care needs of athletes, families, and fans – just like Olympians and Paralympians give their best to their sport. Reuters quotes P&G Chief Brand Officer, Marc Pritchard: “In the past, we’ve had both a P&G and a brand focus, and this time we just really decided we’re going to focus, not 100%, but much more prominently, on brands. That’s what consumers we serve are familiar with.”
One a day confession to wellness
Over the years, people have turned to weird habits in their wellness journeys — think cabbage soup diet or dog yoga — but whether it’s detox teas, extreme diets, or trendy workouts, many lack scientific evidence and could even be harmful. To address this “wellness noise”, One A Day (Bayer) has launched a social campaign to address misinformation and remind consumers to trust science. The VMS brand has partnered with Julian Edelman for the launch of #WellnessConfessionals. The former National Football League player admitted he has tried all the “weird nutrition advice” suggested to him but has learned to ignore it in favor of building habits based on science. Consumers can divulge their own wellness mistakes on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, and by doing so enter a sweepstake to win a 5-night stay at a wellness resort to help them ignore the noise. The competition is open to confessors aged 18+ until 30th June 2024.
Regulatory
DSM-Firmenich’s ampli-D approved as a novel food in EU
The European Commission has approved DSM-Firmenich’s fast-acting vitamin D ingredient, Ampli-D, as a Novel Food in the EU. Ampli-D, a calcidiol monohydrate ingredient, is said to be clinically proven to raise the body’s vitamin D levels 3x faster and more effectively than conventional vitamin D. The authorization permits the use of Ampli-D at a maximum daily dose of 10mcg in children aged 11+ years and adults (including pregnant and lactating women) and a maximum daily dose of 5mcg for children aged 3-10 years. The European Commission granted DSM-Firmenich a 5-year exclusivity period from 1 May 2024.
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trends webinar.
PharmaLinea has once again partnered with IQVIA to deliver a webinar on nutraceutical product market trends for 2024.
>your< iron syrup
PharmaLinea has once again partnered with IQVIA to
deliver a webinar on nutraceutical product market trends
for 2024.
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