Balchem renews LPI partnership to advance iron nutrition and epigenetic health

Balchem has renewed its sponsorship for US Oregon State University’s Linus Pauling Institute (LPI), a nutrition science center aiming to promote optimal health through research and public outreach. The organizations will combine their expertise to address growing interest in biological aging, DNA methylation, and longevity. 

The company says the collaboration will strengthen LPI’s Micronutrient Information Center (MIC), a nutrition education resource, through the development and dissemination of independent, science-based content that focuses on two key health categories: iron nutrition and epigenetic health. 

Eric Ciappio, Ph.D., R.D., senior manager of Nutrition Science at Balchem Corporation Human Nutrition & Health, comments: “Renewing our partnership with LPI reflects Balchem’s commitment to advancing nutrition science and public knowledge.” 

“By combining our research on branded ingredients — such as Albion Minerals’ iron bisglycinate and Optifolin+, a choline-enriched folate supporting cellular health — with MIC’s expertise, we aim to clarify the critical role of iron bioavailability in physiological function and raise awareness of the epigenetic processes that influence gene expression and nutrient utilization.” 

Ciappio notes that providing clear, evidence-based information is essential to supporting better health outcomes as scientific interest in these areas accelerates.

Nutrition and health

Balchem observes a growing demand for solutions targeting epigenetics. In addition, iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders globally. For example, the company notes that the mineral was classified as a “dietary component of public health concern” by the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. 

The LPI partnership aims to meet these needs through a range of initiatives. These aim to inform the public and health care professionals about the relationship between nutrition and health, strengthening understanding of how iron status and epigenetic mechanisms influence long-term health. 

Balchem highlights activities that include the development of science-based educational materials such as videos, fact sheets, infographics, and other assets tailored to diverse learning preferences and translated for Spanish-speaking audiences via the Spanish MIC. 

Ultimately, the partners aim to foster greater engagement in nutrition science among emerging scientists and the wider public, expanding the reach and impact of credible nutrition education to support informed health decisions.

“We are pleased to continue our collaboration with Balchem, whose support enables us to advance our mission of promoting optimal health through rigorous research and accessible public education,” says Emily Ho, LPI endowed chair and director. “Together, we will build on our achievements to help people everywhere to add years of health and vitality to their lives.” 

Healthy aging innovations

An aging population that aims to extend its healthspan is driving nutrition innovations to support longevity, from mobility and muscle maintenance to cognition and metabolic health. 

Nutrition Insight previously spoke with Lauren Eisen, senior marketing and business development manager at Balchem, about the next wave of innovation in folate supplements for healthy aging. She told us that folate plays an important role in methylation, the biological process that regulates gene expression.

Additionally, Balchem recently gained Thailand FDA’s approval for its OptiMSM (methylsulfonylmethane) ingredient for beauty-from-within, muscle recovery, joint health, and active aging supplements. 

Meanwhile, ADM highlighted the potential of postbiotics in healthy aging innovations in functional foods across mood, sleep, and metabolism. The company’s 2026 Healthy Aging Report recommended brands use science-backed ingredients in habit-friendly everyday formats.