Category Archives: Food Supplements

Magnesium isa mineral in the human bodythat helps it work properly. When our bodies don't get enough magnesium, we often feel the consequences. Magnesium deficiency can contribute to nervousness and fatigue. These symptoms can be a good indicator that we need to increase our magnesium intake. However, magnesium deficiencies are uncommon in generally healthy individuals since you're bound to get enough through your diet.

Besides avoiding magnesium deficiency, there can be benefits to taking some kinds of magnesium supplements, such as treating constipation. Here are a few things you should know about what magnesium does for the body, how to add it to your diet and what differentiates various types of magnesium.

Magnesium is a chemical element present in many foods and an essential building block in the body. But what does magnesium do for the body? Our bodies use magnesium to regulate blood pressure, bone development, muscle and nerve function and to synthesize DNA. While those are some of the most notable functions of magnesium in our bodies, the full importance of this mineral can be hard to overstate.

Understanding what foods have magnesium can go a long way towards helping you ensure that you have enough of this vital mineral. Dairy products tend to be rich in magnesium and are one of many people's primary sources of this mineral. While the exact amounts vary between them, legumes, nuts and seeds are another abundant source of magnesium. Spinach, kale and other leafy greens make up the third group of foods that contain high amounts of magnesium. Including more of these types of food in your diet may help you maintain better health and ward off magnesium deficiencies. Still, in some cases, these foods may not be enough or may not be practical. In those cases, magnesium supplements may be able to fill the gap.

If finding the right foods is challenging, inconvenient, or otherwise problematic, taking magnesium supplements may help you to meet your body's needs for this mineral. Even if you aren't noticing signs of magnesium deficiency, it's important to ensure you are consuming the recommended amounts of magnesium.

Once you decide to include magnesium supplements, you may notice the many options available. These supplements come in various types, mainly differentiated by what is bound to the magnesium or used as a carrier. For instance, magnesium citrate is one of the more common types. This type is made of magnesium bonded to citric acid.

As mentioned, there are many types of magnesium supplements. Some people may have an easier time absorbing some types over others. Depending on what the magnesium is bound to, these supplements may also have different health benefits and potential side effects. For example, most magnesium types have some degree of a laxative effect.

This type is created by binding magnesium and chlorine. Magnesium chloride is thought to be easily absorbed by the digestive tract. While this type can help with magnesium deficiency, it is also used to treatheartburn and other problems caused by excessive stomach acid.

One of the more common magnesium types, magnesium citrate, is believed by some to have superior bioavailability compared to other magnesium supplements. The laxative effect of this type is strong enough that high doses of it are sometimes used to treat constipation.

Magnesium lactate is used for similar purposes as other magnesium supplements. However, it has shown some promise at being gentler on the digestive system than many magnesium types. This type is created by binding magnesium with lactic acid.

Magnesium malate is formed by binding magnesium and malic acid. Some research has pursued the idea thatthis type of magnesium supplement may have high levels of bioavailability but has been inconclusive. Beyond potentially greater bioavailability, another potential perk of this magnesium supplement is that it may have less of a discernible impact on the digestive system. People who experience side effects from other types of magnesium may find this type less problematic.

A combination of magnesium and orotic acid, this type of magnesium has shown promise in several areas. Research has demonstrated the importance of themicrobiome-gut-brain axis, which has to do with a feedback system between aspects of the digestive system and psychological well-being. This research indicates that magnesium orotate may encourage better gut health, which could improve experiences of well-being. The high bioavailability of this magnesium type also makes it helpful in treating magnesium deficiency.

However, this type is thought to have a lower laxative effect than others. As a result, it may not be as helpful in treating constipation.

Formed by combining magnesium with oxygen, this type of magnesium supplement has beenresearched for its potential impacts on type 2 diabetes. Research outcomes have been conflicting, butmagnesium oxide supplements are also used for antacid and laxative properties. This form of magnesium may have lower bioavailability than others and may be less effective for managing a magnesium deficiency.

Also known as Epsom salt, this type combines magnesium with sulfur and oxygen. Somestudies have shown the benefits of using magnesium sulfate to treat symptoms of acute asthma, migraines, depression and anxiety. Some of these studies relied on the intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate. Further research is needed to understand the impacts of magnesium sulfate supplements on these conditions.

Magnesium taurate is made by combining magnesium with the amino acid taurine. Like other magnesium types, this one may sometimes be used to treat magnesium deficiency, excessive stomach acidity, and constipation. Someresearch has shown promising results regarding the potential for magnesium taurate to aid in some cardiovascular treatments. However, this research was not conducted on humans, and further study is needed to see how well the effects translate.

While getting enough magnesium in your diet is important, you want to avoid consuming too much. There are a few potential downsides to magnesium that you may want to consider before deciding whether magnesium supplements are right for you.

Depending on the type of magnesium supplement in question, these dietary aids can become expensive.

Taking too much magnesium can lead to an overdose with unpleasant side effects and, in extreme cases, potentially life-threatening risks. Consuming too much magnesium may lead to feelings of fatigue, muscle weakness, nausea and diarrhea. If you take magnesium supplements and experience these symptoms, speak with your doctor as soon as possible.

Magnesium supplements can sometimes interfere with other medications and prevent them from being absorbed or used correctly. If you take regular medications, speak with your prescribing doctor before adding a magnesium supplement to your diet.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

Excerpt from:

Why You Should Add Magnesium to Your Diet (and How to Do It Safely) - CNET

NEWARK, Del, Sept. 07, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global pet treat market is set to witness growth at a CAGR of 5.7% over the forecast period and top a valuation of US$ 122.1 Bn by 2032. Pet treats are a type of dietary supplements given to dogs and cats for snacking. As pets get bored quickly and very easily, to keep them engaged, active, and entertained, pet owners choose to treat them with pet treats.

Pet owners nowadays have become more cautious than before about what their pets are eating. Hence, they are becoming more aware of the ingredients used in pet treats. In response to this, manufacturers are launching organic pet treats in the market.

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Furthermore, using graphics on the packaging may be lucrative to show pet food ingredients present in the pet treat item as well as the ingredients that are not present in them. Thus, providing nutritional information for pet treat on the product may improve sales.

Increasing demand for organic ingredients in pet treats, along with high preference for chewable and vegetarian pet treats for puppies and kittens is expected to fuel sales in the market over the assessment period, says an FMI analyst.

Key Takeaways:

Competitive Landscape

Purina PetCare (Nestle), Pedigree (Mars, Incorporated), Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. (Colgate Palmolive Company), Diamond Naturals (Schell & Kampeter, Inc.), and The J.M. Smucker Company are some of the leading pet treat manufacturers.

Key pet treat brands are investing in strategic partnerships, while other brands are focusing on developing a wide range of organic and meat-free pet treats. For instance:

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Explore More Valuable Insights

Future Market Insights, in its new report, offers an impartial analysis of the global pet treat market, presenting historical data (2017-2021) and estimation statistics for the forecast period of 2022-2032.

The study offers compelling insights based on pet type (dog, cat, and others), pet life-stage (adult, kitten/ puppy, and others), product type (granules & flakes, chunks & nuggets, sticks & wafers, kibbles & pellets, shredded & sliced, and others), packaging type (raw, powdered, dry & dehydrated, liquid & gravy, canned, frozen & freeze-dried, and others), flavor (unflavoured and flavoured), and sales channel (hypermarkets /supermarkets, convenience stores, discount stores, online retail, and others retail formats), across seven major regions of the world.

Table of Content

1. Market Overview

1.1. Market Coverage / Taxonomy

1.2. Market Definition / Scope / Limitations

2. The Massive Impact of the Crisis

2.1. Global Pet Treat Market Forecast Scenario Comparison of Annual Growth Rates for Short Term (2022-2025) and Long Term (2026-2032)

2.2. Key Factors Impacting the Market

2.3. Note: Market Assessment shall be Provided for Likely Scenario

3. Market Background

3.1. Global Production Outlook of Pet Treat Market

3.2. Product Claims & Nutritional Information Scan of Pet Treat

3.3. Product Launches Track & Trends

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About Food & Beverage Division at Future Market Insights

The Food & Beverage team at Future Market Insights provides all the necessary insights and consulting analysis to fulfill the unique business intelligence needs of clients worldwide. With a catalog of more than 500 reports pertaining to the latest statistics and analysis from the food & beverage industry, the team is happy to help with every business intelligence research and consulting requirement.

Explore wide-ranging Coverage of FMI's Food and Beverage Market Insights Landscape

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Protein Hydrolysate Ingredients Market - Protein Hydrolysate Ingredients Market By Ingredient Type (Milk, Whey, Casein, Plant, Meat), By Product Form (Powder, Liquid), By End Use (Infant Formula, Clinical Nutrition, Sports Nutrition, Bakery & Confectionery, Sauces & Spreads & Others) & Regional Forecast till 2032

Corn Silage Market - Corn Silage Market by Type, Nutrients, End-User & Region - Forecast 2022 2032

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Future Market Insights, Inc. is an ESOMAR-certified business consulting & market research firm, a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and is headquartered in Delaware, USA. A recipient of Clutch Leaders Award 2022 on account of high client score (4.9/5), we have been collaborating with global enterprises in their business transformation journey and helping them deliver on their business ambitions. 80% of the largest Forbes 1000 enterprises are our clients. We serve global clients across all leading & niche market segments across all major industries.

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Pet Treat Market to Exceed US$ 122.1 Bn by 2032 as Sales of Organic Pet Treats Grow | Future Market Insights, Inc. - GlobeNewswire

WAGENINGEN, the Netherlands, Sept. 06, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NutriLeads BV and FMCG Gurus will host a webinar on the key findings of three global consumer surveys on immune health and their implications for developers and marketers of functional, immune-supporting foods, beverages and supplements. Registration is now open for the one-hour webinar, which will be held at 18:00 CET / 12:00 EST on September 29, 2022.

The webinar, The impact of immune health in the post-pandemic environment and understanding the shift in consumer behavior, will focus on the results of three global consumer surveys FMCG Gurus conducted at three distinct points (2019-2022) of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each survey asked 15,000 adults in 15 countries about their attitudes, perceptions and behaviors regarding immune health and general well-being.

The data reflects several emerging trends:

The data provide a snapshot of consumer attitudes and behaviors over the past three years, said Joana Carneiro, Ph.D., NutriLeads Chief Executive Officer. This webinar will highlight emerging consumer trends in immune health that may influence the natural products marketplace for years to come.

The data offer fresh insight into how consumers around the world think about their immune health, their plans to maintain or strengthen it, and what they expect from functional foods, beverages and supplements, said Mike Hughes, Head of Research and Insights, FMCG Gurus.

The webinar will feature three speakers:

About NutriLeads BVNutriLeads is a private company developing a proprietary technology platform based on naturally bioactive fibers known as RG-I (rhamnogalacturonan-I) found in select crops. The companys first commercial ingredient for functional foods, beverages and supplements is BeniCaros, a novel immune-support ingredient that has received several industry awards for research excellence since its market introduction last year. NutriLeads has other products in development to protect the gut barrier and improve metabolic health through gut microbiome modulation. The company is dedicated to developing natural, eco-friendly ingredients that meet the highest clinical and scientific standards for quality, safety and effectiveness. For more information, visit NutriLeads and BeniCaros.

About FMCG GurusFMCG Gurus provides market research and insight into consumer attitudes and behaviors across the food, beverage and supplement markets worldwide. The leading global FMCG companies trust us in helping them make more informed decisions by leveraging our services and solutions. Our global reach includes ingredient analysis, future trend mapping and actionable recommendations. http://www.fmcggurus.com

Contact:

David WalshCommunications Consultant 1-651-503-8248david.walsh@nutrileads.com

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NutriLeads and FMCG Gurus to Host Sept 29 Webinar on Changing Consumer Perceptions, Behaviors and Motivations Toward Immune Health - GlobeNewswire

At the 7th annual Dietary Supplements Regulatory Summit, held in Washington D.C. and virtually on July 21, 2022, speakers dissected trends in the supplement market and educated on pressing issues. Product labeling and claims were a hot topic. Rend Al-Mondhiry, Partner, Amin Talati Wasserman LLP, told attendees, Our firm is either helping clients in the food and supplement space try to avoid this risk, or were helping them respond to threatened or filed suits regarding allegedly misleading claims. Its become the cost of doing business for these industries, and one of the main reasons our firm opened up an office in Californiawhich is where most of these suits originate. Most of what we see in the class action realm, whether its a filed or threatened suit, are actions where consumers allege they were deceived by false or misleading claims.

Al-Mondhiry discussed common themes in cases that are increasing across the supplement space. And though the courts have typically sided with the defendant or supplement company, she urged caution, and advised attendees to be increasingly aware of current trends and case precedents in the space.

There has been a rise in cases related FD&C Act compliance. Allegations are primarily tied to state law and regulation. Even where labeling or the product is compliant, Al-Mondhiry said, claims may be misleading. Due to this, noncompliance doesnt mean the case will succeed. It is fact- and context-specific.

Al-Mondhiry presented case examples, including Greenberg v. Target Corp., (9th Cir. 2021) targeting a biotin supplement with the claim helps support healthy hair and skin. Greenberg filed a putative class action under Californias Unfair Competition Law, alleging that most people do not benefit from biotin supplementation, making the labels deceptive. The panel affirmed summary judgment in favor of the manufacturer and distributors. There is substantiation that biotin helps support healthy hair and skin, so that statement was truthful, not misleading, and is a permissible structure/function claim.

Al-Mondhiry summed it up: Simply put, manufacturers may make structure/function claims about a nutrients general role on the human body without disclosing whether the product will provide a health benefit to each consumer.

Another trend to be aware of: Legal suits over natural claims. Use of the claim natural in marketing and advertising has been deemed false, deceptive, and misleading because products allegedly contained non-natural, synthetic ingredients. Example: Orrico v. Nordic Naturals (E.D. N.Y. 2022). Other undefined terms can be a target such as clean and pure.

There also has been an increase in environmental claims in recent years. Lawsuits have typically been filed by consumers and non-profits. According to FTC Green Guides, marketers should avoid unqualified general environmental benefit claims. Avoid broad claims with a range of meanings. This messaging may convey that the product has no negative environmental impact, and such claims should be avoided. The general thinking, Al-Mondhiry said, is that it is unlikely that marketers can substantiate all reasonable interpretations of these claims.

There have been attacks on the placement of DSHEA disclaimers. Example: Barnes v. Iovate Health Sciences U.S.A. Inc. (N.D. Cal. June 2021). This described an allegation that products were misbranded, unlawful supplements, and/or unapproved drugs. There has been an increase in citing noncompliance with 21 CFR 101:93 (d): the disclaimer shall appear on each panel or page where there such is a statement.

Excerpt from:

Claims & Labeling: 5 Takeaways from the Dietary Supplements Regulatory Summit - WholeFoods Magazine

Nutraceuticals is a comprehensive umbrella term which is used to label any product acquired from food origin with additional health advantages over and above the basic nutritious value available in foods.

Nutraceuticals can be regarded as non-precise biological remedies used to boost general health, regulate indications, and avert malignant developments. The explanation of nutraceuticals and allied output generally relies on the origin. Nutraceuticals can be segmented based on their natural basis, pharmacological circumstances, as well as the chemical structure of the products.

Nutraceuticals have advantage over medicine because they avoid side-effect and have natural dietary supplement. Most often, nutraceuticals are organised into the following classes: functional food, dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and medicinal foods.

Dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals, and protein are the most frequently used nutraceuticals worldwide. Their acceptance has augmented rapidly in the earlier few years. Many studies have suggested that dietary supplements can enhance health, reimburse for unhealthy eating ways, and also lessen risk of developing chronic ailments. Moreover, factors such as easy availability and low cost augment the demand for dietary supplements.

Global Nutraceuticals Market: An OverviewThe globalnutraceuticals marketis segmented based on type, form, sales channel, and region. Based on type, the global market is bifurcated into functional beverage, functional food, and dietary supplements. By form, the market is segmented into capsules and tablets, liquid, powder, others.

Based on sales channel, the global market is studied across hypermarkets/supermarkets, specialty stores, pharmacies, and online channels. The global nutraceuticals market is also studied across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

By type, the nutraceuticals market is divided into functional beverages, functional foods, and dietary supplements. Functional foods are the most commonly consumed types of nutraceuticals products and occupy the largest market share, while the functional beverages are expected to have the highest growth at the end of the forecast period. (Fig.1).

Fig.1 The functional food segment dominates the global nutraceuticals market and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period

Based on the form, the nutraceuticals market is divided into capsules and tablets, liquids, powders, and others. Capsules and tablets are the most easily available and the most widely consumed forms of nutraceuticals in the market and the other nutraceuticals products are expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

Nutraceutical Market Overview in South Asian RegionThe Southeast Asia dietary supplements market size was valued at $6.92 Billion in 2018 and is projected to reach $10.60 Billion by 2026, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.60% during the forecast period (2019-2026). Dietary supplements are substances which are developed and designed to add specific nutrients to the body. These nutrients are supplied externally, which helps support the body system by lowering the risk of heart diseases and creates immunity against various diseases.

There are specific vitamins and minerals that the body cannot process on its own, which have to be consumed as supplements. Sometimes these supplements are added to food and drinks. Dietary supplements come in various forms such as extracts (liquid and powder), capsules, tablets, and pills. It consists of different types of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, fibres, and plant and herb enzymes or extracts.

Southeast Asia, the dietary supplements market, is driven by the growing consumer consciousness towards preventive health maintenance and enhancement. Consumers are exhibiting greater willingness to opt for a concentrated source of nutrition and dietary supplements and have answered this call effectively and conveniently. Dietary supplements addressing general health and well-being, immune-support, digestive-support and so on are being increasingly demanded by consumers that are managing many of their health issues by relying on them.

The Southeast Asia nutraceutical excipients market size is expected to reach $1.03 billion by 2025 at an 8.22% CAGR, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing health consciousness and consequently increasing demand for nutraceuticals among consumers in South East Asia (SEA) are expected to drive market growth.

Europe reported the highest share, predominantly owing to a greater elderly population and the growing occurrence of chronic ailments. Asia Pacific is projected to advance at the highest compounded annual growth rate, majorly owing to the increasing popularity of e-commerce websites, growing awareness about the importance of well-being and health, and the rising middle-class populace.

The Middle East, Latin America, and African regions are expected to exhibit noteworthy growth in the projected time-frame.

Southeast Asian countries are recognised as hubs for innovation as far as new ingredients and functional foods are concerned. Major changes in urban lifestyle, high dependence on domestic consumption, and rising disposable income of consumers are key factors boosting the nutraceutical industry in these countries. Many international nutraceutical manufacturers seek entry into the SEA market owing to the high potential for revenue generation through consumer behaviour patterns in this region. For instance, in January 2018, ChromaDex introduced its Tru Niagen supplement in Singapore through retail partnerships with Watsons.

The comprehensive research account covers inclinations of nutraceuticals throughout chief regions encompassing Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, North America and the Middle East. By region, nutraceuticals market is led by North America due to presence of major manufacturers, high disposable income, and increasing focus on physical appearance.

(The author is professor, Amity University Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior. He can be reached at nmishra1@gwa.amity.edu)

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Focus on functional food, beverages and dietary supplements | FNB News - fnbnews.com

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Probiotics are live bacteria that are added, grown, or mixed into foods and drinks. Some studies suggest a link between probiotic consumption and weight loss when part of a balanced diet. However, further clinical trials will help determine how doctors can utilize this for patient treatment.

Probiotics are living microorganisms that may provide health benefits when people consume them. Typically, they come in yogurt form or specifically formulated drinks and supplements. They are also available in fermented foods such as kefir, tempeh, kombucha, miso, kimchi, and sauerkraut.

Learn more about probiotic foods here.

Probiotics can manipulate the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome refers to the collection and activity of microorganisms, including bacteria, that reside in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Dietary choices can influence the gut microbiome in helpful or harmful ways to overall health. People can add beneficial bacteria, such as lactobacilli or bifidobacterium, to their gut microbiome by using probiotic supplements or formulated foods.

Learn more about the microbiome and its role in health via MNTs dedicated hub.

The Food and Beverage Administration (FDA) does not regulate probiotics and treats them like other health supplements. However, it does generally consider them safe.

Additionally, the FDA includes many microorganisms in the Generally Recognised As Safe (GRAS) list, such as the lactic acid producing strains of probiotics commonly used in yogurt, Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus.

The relationship between probiotics and weight loss is complex and the subject of ongoing research.

A 2021 scientific review of data suggests that the intake of probiotics could lead to weight loss over 12 weeks in combination with other healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular physical activity.

Another review looked at the relationship between obesity and the gut microbiome. Those with a higher body mass index (BMI) may have reduced diversity in their gut microbiome. The review suggests the consumption of probiotics may alter the gut microbiome in ways that promote weight loss in people with high BMI by regulating appetite, metabolism, and energy expenditure.

Learn more about the potential benefits of probiotics here.

Similar to other supplements, probiotics are not subject to the same regulations as medications or food. This lack of regulation applies to supplements.

Therefore, it is not always possible to ensure that the probiotic contains the bacteria strains and quantities a product may claim.

Additionally, many bacteria populations in a probiotic supplement may change over time due to storage conditions or temperature fluctuations.

A 2015 study reports very rare cases of unwanted bacteria-host interactions or other side effects of probiotics, usually in immunosuppressed people or those otherwise severely ill. The researchers note that taking supplements always poses some risk and that the safety of probiotics requires further study.

Foods that contain probiotics, such as yogurts, are regulated by the FDA. They may not contain probiotics in as high quantities as supplements but may generally be a safer option for people concerned about risks.

Probiotics are not a replacement for conventional medicine. Probiotics should not be taken by people who are immunocompromised or otherwise severely ill. If pregnant or nursing, seek medical advice prior to use. Probiotics cannot treat or cure any disease or condition.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

A person can add this unflavored powder supplement to a drink daily. The manufacturer recommends adding it to a cold drink as heat may destroy the bacteria.

It contains multiple bacteria strains, including L. gasseri, L. rhamnosus, A. Senegal, and L. Acidophilus.

The product is suitable for vegans, is gluten-free, and is USDA certified as organic.

These capsules are vegan and gluten free, and contain a single targeted strain of Bifidobacterium. It also contains whole-food herbs that the company claims benefit wellness.

The manufacturer recommends taking one capsule per day, with or without food.

These 8-probiotic-strain capsules are vegan and gluten-free, and the manufacturer recommends taking one capsule daily.

Solaray claims that its product contains no genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and its product is lab-verified.

This product uses two strains of bacteria and does not contain any stimulants, including caffeine.

The manufacturer claims these capsules help a persons body metabolize fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

These capsules are vegetarian, but unlike many others, are not vegan friendly. They have a unique purple color that the company claims come from purple carrot concentrate.

These capsules provide a 250 milligram (mg) serving of Lactobacillus gasseri.

The company recommends taking one capsule per day.

These vegetarian capsules contain 10 bacteria strains, a prebiotic component, and green coffee bean extract. The product claims to support immune and digestive health, alongside a healthy BMI.

The manufacturer advises taking two capsules per day.

This product requires refrigeration.

Probulin advertises that they transport their products in cold boxes during shipping, which helps maintain probiotic levels.

This product features 10 strains of probiotics and herbal ingredients such as the adaptogen ashwaganda.

A person can take this vegan, gluten-free product twice a day.

The table below compares the probiotic supplements in this article on key features:

When looking for a probiotic, a person may make some considerations.

Probiotic measurements are Colony Forming Units (CFUs) which estimate the number of viable cells in a given sample under controlled conditions.

Current regulation only requires a manufacturer to declare the total weight of the microbes, alive or dead, which does not correlate to the actual dose a person may consume.

When choosing a supplement, the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) recommends looking for a supplement declaring total CFUs at the end of the products shelf life.

Many probiotic supplements have 110 billion CFUs, and some have over 50 billion. There is no defined upper consumption limit, but there is currently also no evidence to suggest that higher CFU counts have better health effects.

People should also consider the types and amounts of different strains. These do not necessarily indicate safer or higher quality products, however.

While capsules and powders are the most common probiotic supplements, probiotics are also available in yogurts, fermented milk drinks, and even infused into flavored drinks. An individuals gut microbiome will also adapt gradually to diet changes, with different diets rendering different changes.

Probiotics alone will not likely support weight loss and should be taken in combination with proven weight loss methods, such as reducing energy intake and increasing physical activity.

Below, we look at some common questions about probiotics for weight loss.

The evidence shows a link between probiotics and weight loss when a person uses them alongside a balanced diet and exercise regimen.

A person may need to try different products to find a probiotic supplement that suits their needs.

No. There is currently no research to suggest an ideal number of CFUs or preferred methods of consuming probiotics.

Probiotics for weight loss are generally safe and can complement a persons diet and exercise regimen. Individuals should try different options to find what works best for them.

Anyone with concerns about the safety of taking probiotics should speak to a doctor for guidance.

Experts are continually studying probiotics to find the most effective bacteria strains and the optimal CFU dosage. They may then be able to confirm the link between the gut microbiome and weight loss.

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What are the best probiotics for weight loss in 2022? - Medical News Today

The food world is just mad about saffron.

Created from the dried stamens of a high-maintenance crocus flower, saffron is treasured for the vibrant yellow color and delicate flavor and aroma it brings to food. Saffron crocus threads are meticulously hand-harvested, dried and packaged, and then sold for prices up to around $50 per ounce.

But, Frank Jaksch points out, there are significant health and wellness benefits to consuming saffron as well. However, extracting them and making them available on a commercial scale is difficult.

How are you supposed to take a incredibly high-value botanical like that and translate it into something that is a health and wellness solution to be used as an ingredient of those types of products? he asked.The answer is it's impossible.

Jaksch, who co-founded botanical-based supplement company ChromaDex in 1999, is ready to make it possible. Hes just been named the first CEO of Ayana Bio, a company spun off of Ginkgo Bioworks last year. Ayana Bio, which has been operating under the radar since its September 2021 creation,will use plant cell culturing techniques to produce biological components from ingredients like saffron, ginger, blueberries and cacao for use as food ingredients and supplements, and in nutritional beverages.

Jaksch said he co-founded ChromaDex to apply chemistry to the natural products space and become a provider of ingredients for food and supplements. ChromaDex perfected the creation of a form of vitamin B3 that has anti-aging properties, known by the brand name Niagen, and focused on producing it as a supplement.

Frank Jaksch

Permission granted by Ayana Bio

But, Jaksch said, with Ayana Bio he wants to get back to his roots: using science and technology to develop novel ingredients from the plant kingdom in a way that they are most impactful to human health,and make them readily available for use in consumer products. By taking the helm of Ayana Bio, Jaksch said, he has the unique opportunity to do that.

The plant cell technology platform that Ayana Bio has is, to me, a game changer in being able to bring novel ingredients and basically sustainable ingredients to the market, he said.

Ginkgo Bioworks, the publicly traded cell-programming biotech giant, announced the spinoff and funding of Ayana Bio last September. Ayana was started with the intention of using Ginkgos well-known cell programing technology and infrastructure to bring to market high purity, clean and reliable medicinal bioactives in convenient forms. Its creation was funded by a $30 million Series A round from Viking Global Investors and Cascade Investment.

The best way to take advantage of these bioactives, creating them at large scale in a consistent way, is through plant cell culture, Jaksch said. This is a method that grows individual plant cells in a bioreactor. Although these cells are grown using technology, they are identical to ones found in nature, according to the company.Ayana Bio plans to utilize the cells on their own, not combine them or use them to engineer plants or plant-based products outside of their natural habitats.

While plant cell culture has been researched for years, few companies have advanced R&D to take advantage of it. Many are using precision fermentation to produce single compounds that work well in food products, but Jaksch said that approach doesnt do enough to create the types of nutritional compounds in plants.

Plant cells don't have to be engineered to produce these compounds because the plant cells were designed by nature to produce not only one compound, but multiple compounds, he said.

The plant cell technology platform that Ayana Bio has is, to me, a game changer in being able to bring novel ingredients and basically sustainable ingredients to the market.

Frank Jaksch

CEO, Ayana Bio

Using cell cuture, Ayana Bio can harness that power of plant cells and focus on perfecting production of those compounds. Some of these compounds are difficult to obtain today. Price can be an issue.Sometimes, taking a wild plant and transitioning it to mass cultivation makes its nutrient levels shift, Jaksch said.

By using cell culturing technology, Ayana Bio can grow identical cells consistently.And with climate change threatening many food crops, a non-agricultural solution to produce them could ensure their survival for future generations.

Extraction from agriculture is the past; ingredient cultivation is the future, Effendi Leonard, Ayana Bios co-founder and chief technology officer, said in a statement. We rely on plant-derived molecules for many things in our daily lives, and Ayana Bios mission to democratize plant bioactives without agriculture limitation is not an easy feat.Leonard said Ayana Bio is uniquely positioned to leverage life science technology, computation and cellular cultivation.

Ayana Bios product pipeline includes bioactive compounds from ginseng, berries, cocoa, ginger and other high-value botanicals, according to a company statement.The company can use Ginkgo Bioworks cell library and analytical capabilities to seek out the best cell lines to produce.

Using this technology, Jaksch said Ayana Bio can create ingredients that take the beneficial health and wellness-related aspects of plants so they could be added to supplements, beverages, protein bars or drinks or CPG products. The goal is to optimize the ingredients healthfulness and make them accessible enough to be used widely in products.For example, while blueberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, Jaksch said the average person cannot eat enough of them to take full advantage of their benefits.

Jaksch would not say how close Ayana Bio is to actually developing any potential ingredients, but he said there is a wide target group that could do business with the company.Beverage mix companies could use its ingredients to amp up nutritional benefits in their products, but CPG companies, desiring to serve consumers something more nutritious, may want to use them as well.

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Jaksch said the COVID-19 pandemic threw fuel on the trend toward better-for-you options, and he believes Ayana Bio can meet CPG companiesneed for ingredient solutions.

I was actively involved in those conversations with some very large CPG food and beverage companies that were having tons of internal meetings, all the way up to the CEO and the board levels, where they were looking at, How do we bring health and wellness to the table, right?, Jaksch said.I don't want to sell just chips and snacks anymore. We need to find a way to sell chips and snacks and things like this that are healthier versions.

Jaksch said hes always been excited about the possibility of optimizing whats available in nature and making it available to companies to improve health and wellness.Ayana Bio, he said, gives him the opportunity to offer manufacturers and consumers something that is both new and familiar and that they already recognize as healthy.

Now we're just trying to say, Hey, we found a better way of making this stuff and delivering upon the promise and all the clinical studies and all the data that's already out there, he said.

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How Ayana Bio will use science and technology to make more nutritious ingredients - Food Dive

This article was published in the June 2022 issue ofPet Food Processing. Read it and other articles from this issue in ourJune 2022 digital edition.

The humanization of pets has it perks, dangers and many unknowns. When out on the trails together, the pet parent can nibble on the human-grade peanut butter treats along with their furry companion. But, when sitting back and chilling at the end of the day, the pet parent better make sure no sips are snuck of that cold hard seltzer. In fact, there are numerous substances approved for human use and not considered safe for pets. Chocolate and caffeine, for instance, are toxic to both cats and dogs. Macadamia nuts are one of the most poisonous foods for dogs, while tomato plants can be fatal to cats. Then theres hemp-derived cannabis ingredients showing up in all types of products.

COVID accelerated the humanization of pets, said Bill Bookout, president of the National Animal Supplement Council, Sun City West, Ariz. At the end of the day, pet parents want to accomplish the same thing for their pets as for themselves, and that is to live a long, happy, healthy life.

Thats where cannabidiols (CBD) enter the picture. In December 2018, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognized hemp-derived cannabis ingredients with less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on a dry weight basis and CBD as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for human products such as tinctures and extracts. The THC are psychoactive compounds, while the CBD compounds are associated withrelaxation, pain relief, improved sleep, positive mood,bettermemory andstressresponse.

This GRAS list does not transfer to pets. Further, the Dietary Supplement Health and EducationAct (DSHEA) of 1994 also does not apply to animals. And while hemp-derived CBD is not legally (at the federal level) allowed in human foods and beverages, it is being used in states that have approved marijuana, and its also being incorporated into pet treats and supplements without any regulatory approval. And pet parents are buying them.

AmericanMarijuana.org, an online medical marijuana resource, surveyed 1,061 US CBD consumers in 2021 about their experience using CBD on their pets. Thirty-five percent of respondents said their vets advised them to do so. Before administering CBD, 61% were worried about its safety; however, after using it, 40% were no longer concerned. Further, nine out of 10 indicated they would recommend CBD for pets to others.

More than three out of five (63%) respondents said they tried other medications before using CBD on their pets, with 83% agreeing that CBD was more effective. An impressive 81% agreed that CBD was safer, but there remains some confusion. Of the 92% of pet parents who often read the labels on CBD products before purchasing it for their pets, nearly one out of five (19%) indicated they were not sure they understood the information on the label.

"A quick internet search will pull up hundreds of animal treats and snacks containing hemp and hemp derivatives, such as CBD and various oils, said Louise Calderwood, director of regulatory affairs, American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), Arlington, Va. There is only one problem: there is no legal way to offer hemp in animal food or treats.

Dana Brooks, president and chief executive officer, Pet Food Institute, Washington, DC, said, Cannabis-containing and cannabis-derived products, like CBD oil, have become the topic of conversation for both humans and pets. However, the FDA has not approved these products for inclusion in either human food or pet food and prohibits the addition of CBD to prepared foods. While the FDA determines a new ruling on ingredients, such as CBD, research is underway among regulatory bodies, academia and pet food makers to confirm the benefits and safety of CBD for pets.

Why CBD?

CBD is being included in pet treats and supplements for the same reason they are being produced for human consumers, for their purported health benefits, said Hilary Brown, director of research and development, SRSE Technology, Seattle. Consumers are typically interested in using CBD for their animals general wellness.

They are also looking to give CBD to their pets for the following conditions: cancer; epilepsy and seizures; stress and anxiety; digestion and nausea; pain and inflammation due to joint problems; aging and degenerative diseases; and skin inflammation and allergies.

Until more research is done on the impact CBD and other cannabinoids have on animals or humans, it is best practice for companies producing products for consumption not to make medical claims that cannot be proven without the data to back up the claims, Brown said.

While medical claims should not be made, scientists do understand how CBD functions in the body. Through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), CBD can help the body maintain balance.

The ECS has three components: endocannabinoids, receptors and enzymes, Brown said. Endocannabinoids are molecules produced by the body that help keep internal functions running smoothly. The body produces them as needed, making it difficult to know what typical levels are for each. They are similar to the phytocannabinoids like CBD produced by cannabis plants.

Endocannabinoid receptorsare found throughout your body, Brown added. Endocannabinoids bind to them in order to signal that the ECS needs to take action. Enzymes are responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once theyve carried out their function.Phytocannabinoidsare the active chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with a human or animals bodys endocannabinoid receptors.

"Unscrupulous, opportunistic suppliers are the greatest concern, said Bill Bookout, president of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC).

CBD is only one of more than a hundred different phytocannabinoids that reside in the flowers of the cannabis plant. Knowing how CBD functions is a good thing; however, understanding possible interactions with other medications and overall health and safety remain a concern. In terms of safety, theres also the concern of toddlers or other uninformed humans getting their hands on the product and experiencing a deleterious effect.

Regulatory hurdles

There is quite a bit of research on the non-nutritional benefits of CBD on pets, Bookout said. Safety, however, still needs to be studied, as well as if the CBD ingredient is efficacious and provides a benefit.

His concern is that some players in this space have a sort of gold-rush mentality. They are producing or using poor quality CBD ingredients just to make money.

Unscrupulous, opportunistic suppliers are the greatest concern, Bookout said.

To move forward, more safety studies are necessary, he said. It will also be paramount to have an audit process with a verification of trust seal.

We believe that robust safety research into possible novel pet food ingredients will help to ensure a better understanding of any possible impacts on pet health and nutrition, Brooks said. Regulatory bodies can then make sound decisions regarding ingredient definition and approval when presented with the available science. At the same time, this can also help support a regulatory environment that is predictable for pet food manufacturers so they will not depend upon a patchwork ingredient approval system that varies state-by-state within the US.

In February 2022, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), Champaign, Ill., initiated an effort to address the growing use of illegal hemp products in animal snacks and treats. In collaboration with 16industry organizations, AAFCO sent an open letter to lawmakers and other agricultural leaders regarding the trend of state legislatures introducing bills that allow the use of hemp and hemp byproducts in commercial livestock feed and pet food.

This CBD oil can be added to pet food, treats or fed directly to dogs, cats or horses. (Source: NuLeaf Naturals)

It is confusing for consumers to see hemp-based products offered for sale for their pets or livestock, and the hodgepodge of state legislation allowing it creates an unlevel playing field for other ingredients that follow the proper regulatory pathways, Calderwood said. The letter highlights concerns that hemp and hemp by-products (e.g., CBD) are being used in animal food before federal approval affirms they are safe and legal to use. Some in the hemp industry are actively lobbying legislators and state departments of agriculture to support legislative pathways for the sale of hemp and hemp derivatives for use in animal food, rather than following recognized regulatory structures.

The letter states, Currently, no hemp ingredients have been approved through the established animal feed ingredient review pathways. It would be imprudent to bypass these established procedures needed to protect both human and animal health and unilaterally legislate approval of animal feed ingredients at the state level.

CBD given in an edible delivery system offers an easy way for pet parents to administer to their pets. That is why the trend is becoming so popular, said RaChelle Baca-Lobre, founder and global director of sales at Rovers Wellness.

The letter encourages proponents of hemp-based animal foods to support research through universities or private labs so that the safety and utility of hemp can be fully understood before it is allowed for commercial purposes.

This is what companies do when they want to have new ingredients approved, Calderwood said. They dont circumnavigate regulations and move straight to store shelves. They spend the money and time, and have their new products undergo the appropriate testing and review before they are put in animals mouths.

Delivery methods

There are a number of CBD suppliers, as well as pet treat and supplement companies, doing their due diligence. Take note, dosing is an important consideration. That makes treats and oils the more common delivery vehicles, as these formats make it easier to control and regulate the quantity of CBD the pet ingests.

There remains, however, a lack of quality, peer-reviewed research regarding pets consuming CBD. Published studies are focused more on perceived effects versus quantifiable data.

Data that looks at more empirical evidence and can point to specific interactions within an animals endocannabinoid system would be very helpful, Brown said. Looking at cannabiss interactions with other ingredients in the animals diet and the safety of consumption are areas where we will hopefully begin to see further research.

SRSE Technology markets water-soluble hemp-derived CBD emulsions in liquid and powder forms. Heirloom Pet Products, Richmond, Va., uses it in an array of pet products, including food toppers, bone broth and stick snacks. Free from THC and its psychoactive effects, the broad-spectrum, water-soluble ingredient is optimized for rapid bioavailability, according to the company.

CBD extracts are oils, and oils can be tricky to work with [in treats] depending on the product being created, Brown said. The extracts are viscous and do not always disburse evenly, which can make accurate dosing difficult. The oil also takes more effort and time to digest.

Oil supplements are a precise way of dosing for pets and humans; however, people typically consume oil by dipping it under their tongue. This is an effective way for the active compounds to enter the endocannabinoid system, but is not so effective with a dog or cat.

CBD given in an edible delivery system offers an easy way for pet parents to administer to their pets, said RaChelle Baca-Lobre, founder and global director of sales, Rovers Wellness, Franklin, Tenn., a manufacturer of broad-spectrum oil.That is why the trend is becoming so popular.Finding a clean delivery system is key. However, they do have to dose a bit higher, as the CBD/hemp oil/cannabinoids do not travel to the endocannabinoid system the same way that administering oil directly under the tongue or in the mouth would. Also, it is not possible to dose a medication in the pets food because you will be left wondering whether the pet got the proper dose if they do not eat the entire portion which happens a lot.

Broad-spectrum CBD contains CBD and other cannabinoids but no THC, while full-spectrum CBD contains CBD and all other cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC (0.3% or less). Isolate CBD contains just CBD.

NuLeaf Naturals, Denver, markets full-spectrum CBD pet oils. This whole-plant extract contains all of the naturally occurring synergistic cannabinoids and terpenes. The company uses US-grown organic hemp plants harvested at peak perfection. The company controls the entire farming and production process from seed to shelf to guarantee quality. Further, NuLeaf Naturals uses independent labs to confirm purity and potency, ensuring pets are ingesting safe and effective ingredients.

Regulations and education are critical in this space. Pet parents need to know that products they may be using can be dangerous to their pets. In addition, with relaxed laws around cannabis in many states, humans may be less concerned with leaving it out. Unfortunately, this means pets may be getting into their owners stashes and the results can be harmful.

Trupanion, a Seattle-based medical insurance provider for pets, is experiencing more than five-times the number of claims that involve cannabis ingestion than that of alcohol.THC can cause balance problems, irregular heartbeat, incontinence or worse. Even inhalation through second-hand smoke can be very dangerous to pets. Trupanion has also found that nearly 10% of marijuana toxicity claims for pets are paired with chocolate toxicity.

While there remain many questions regarding CBD and pets, most players in this space support regulations and certifications to ensure safety. For now, pet parents must decide if the purported health benefits outweigh the unknowns.

Keep up with the latestpet food trendson our Trends page.

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Formulating with hemp-based ingredients - Pet Food Processing

Sedgwick is a global provider of technology-enabled risk, benefits, and integrated business solutions with more than 30,000 employees across 80 countries. It reports quarterly on everything recalled around the world.

The Sedgwick recall indexes are lengthy, colorful, and very comprehensive. Automotive, consumer products, medical devices, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage recalls are all included in the quarterly Sedgwick indexes.

The Sedgwick index includes food and beverage recalls by the U.S. Food and Drug and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Mandatory recalls are rare, but both the USDAs Food Safety and Inspection Service and the FDA recalls for the businesses under their regulation are logged.

According to Sedgwick, the number of FDA recalls increased 9.1 percent during the second quarter, which ended on June 30. The recall increase to 120 reflects a rise from 110 events during the first quarter.

For USDA-regulated establishments, total recalls were up 62.5 percent in 2022s second quarter, up from eight in the previous period to 13. Sedgwick also tracks the number of units recalled and reports that USDA-regulated businesses recalled 973,374 pounds of meat during the period, a 1,391.3 percent increase.

USDA recalls were for no inspections, bacterial contamination, foreign materials, under-cooking, and undeclared allergens.

Two recalls totaling 615,315 pounds were caused by undercooking and involved chicken breasts from the same manufacturer. That undercooking was responsible for the greatest number of pounds recalled during the period.

No pork was recalled during the first quarter, but there were five recalls involving pork during the second quarter.

All USDA recalls were Class 1 events, meaning human health was at risk. The quarter also saw three poultry recalls, one for seafood and multiple types of meat.

Although the overall number of recalls went up in the food industry from the first quarter of 2022, there was a significant drop in the number of impacted units, the new data from the recently releasedSedgwick Brand Protection Q2 2022 recall indexreveals.

Sedgwick predicts that combining operational difficulties and abrasive safety regulators will undoubtedly result in more recalls and enforcement actions across industries as 2022 finishes up.

Overall, recalls surpassed1 billion productsthis year for only the third year on record, and it expects that 2022 will be a record-setting year for recalled products.

Regulators and lawmakers alike have increased their scrutiny of every industry, introduced new guidelines and rules, and started to call out companies they believe to be non-compliant publicly,said Chris Harvey, senior vice president at Sedgwick. Add to the mix the current geopolitical issues and ongoing public health crises, and businesses face new risks that are increasingly difficult to address.

Sedgwick also commented on the controversial recall and shortage of infant formula. It reports that during the week of July 3, the out-of-stock rate for powdered infant formula was more than 30 percent, while the regular rate is 10 percent.

According to some reports, the dire infant formula shortage was underway by February and maybe earlier. No one has made a solid prediction about when the need will end.

Other trends mentioned by Sedgwick in their current index are litigation involving bioengineered food, new food supplier verification regulations, and changes in dietary supplements.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News,click here.)

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Sedgwick index reports on recent food and beverage recall trends - Food Safety News

In this series of articles, NutraIngredients discusses some of the key issues and challenges facing the nutraceutical and food ingredient industry today. In this article, we hear fromMartin Ham, business development manager at NIZO.

NutraIngredients (NI): Why is the gut health market hot right now?

Martin Ham (MH): There are a number of factors combining to drive growth in the gut and digestive health market. One is that consumers are increasingly aware of the importance of gut health and comfort, and that they can, to some extent, manage that themselves through food choices and supplements. This is linked to the fact that global populations are ageing, and more and more people are living with chronic gastric disorders. At the same time, scientists are gaining better understanding of both the importance of the gut (microbiome) on human health and how we can influence it.

NI: How does the gut (microbiome) affect health?

MH: Most obviously, a healthy gut can promote digestive health such as reducing constipation and bloating. But it also has more systemic effects. For example, gut health plays a vital role in our immune system whether by inhibiting pathogens from binding to cells in our digestive tract or through direct modulation of immune cells. Moreover, the concept of the gut-brain-axis, or microbiota-gut-brain-communication, has become largely accepted over the last decade. This two-way molecular communication between the gut and the brain is suspected of impacting our mood, ability to deal with stress, sleep patterns and even behaviour.

NI: What kind of functional ingredients are important in the market?

MH: Currently, the largest area is probiotics microbes that have a positive effect, for example, by metabolising otherwise undigestible food components or producing beneficial compounds such as neurotransmitters or short-chain fatty acids. Then there are prebiotics, substances such as certain fibres or oligosaccharides that promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. These two areas can be combined into one food product or supplement, delivering both the beneficial bacteria and the foodstuff to help it grow in the gut. An emerging area is so-called postbiotics, which contain inactivated microbial cells or cell components, with or without metabolites, that contribute to observed health benefits. Then there are various food enzymes, bioactive proteins and peptides.

There are also a wide variety of phytochemicals including various polyphenols and polysaccharides. Many of these could be extracted from side streams from other industries, which also brings a wide range of environmental benefits including reducing waste and carbon footprints.

NI: Which bioactive molecules can be sourced from side streams?

MH: In a previous column, my colleague Guus Kortman and Jos Maria Pinilla of Natac Biotech talked about the OLEAF4VALUE. This is looking to identify potentially health-boosting polyphenols and triterpenoids, amongst other molecules, in olive leaf biomass from the olive oil industry. Such compounds may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, prebiotic or antimicrobial effects.

Earlier this year, Dutch health ingredients company NutriLeads launched an immune health ingredient based on carrot polysaccharides. This ingredient is derived from carrot pomace, which is a side stream of carrot juice production. Indeed, such potentially prebiotic polysaccharides can be found in many fruits, grains, fungi and even yeasts, and there are many efforts ongoing to find and extract polysaccharide-containing fractions from side streams of appropriate industries. For example, brewing giant AB InBev is looking at the possibility of extracting the hemicellulose arabinoxylan from brewers spent grain, a by-product of beer production. Arabinoxylan may boost levels of bifidobacteria in the human gut.

NI: How do we identify the actual health benefits of such compounds and probiotics?

MH: To be seen as a serious player in this market, it is absolutely essential to provide evidence that substantiates the health benefits of a new product or ingredient. The gold standard for health benefit substantiation is obviously a properly designed clinical trial. But these are costly and can take a long time to perform.

So, the first step is usually one or more in vitro studies, where the compound, microbe or product is introduced to relevant human cells (aka a model). In vitro models are an essential part of the discovery phase, helping identify new functional components and the impact of various types of processing on those components. They can also be used to provide credibility for claims that a food component is biologically active, uncover the mode of action and evaluate potential interactions between components that could either enhance or suppress the desired health benefit. Whats more, the insight gained can guide the design of later human intervention studies to increase the chances of a significant result, which saves time and money.

NI: How do you usein vitro models?

MH: In vitro models aim to mimic the conditions of a certain environment within the human body. To apply them effectively, you have to think about the type of functional component you are investigating and where it will act then pick your in vitro model accordingly. Until recently, these models would use just one cell type, such as epithelial cells, immune cells or samples of the gut microbiota. But increasingly, people are combining different types of cells into a single model to give a more complete picture of how a food component interacts with the human body. For example, combining digestion, gut fermentation and intestinal models may give a more realistic picture of how certain peptides, oligosaccharides or other food components are metabolised and absorbed. Taking this idea further, so-called organoid models combine relevant cell types into a kind of miniaturized organ.

Choosing the right model depends on the specifics of the question you want to explore. More complex models can mimic the environment inside our bodies more realistically but take longer to deliver results. So simpler, high-throughput models are best used in early explorations when you are screening multiple or very novel components to narrow down promising candidates for further investigation. The more complex models are useful later for precise validation of previously identified components and their specific effects.

Together, these models provide the basis for identifying and validating novel compounds, microbes and products or new benefits of existing components to improve gut health and general wellbeing.

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Gut health: A market on the rise - NutraIngredients.com