Beyond The Headlines: AprèsFlex gets updated NNHPD license, CRN unveils “Science in Session” symposium

30 Aug 2024 --- This week in nutrition news, PLT Health Solutions received an updated license for AprèsFlex from Health Canada’s Natural and Non-Prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD), the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) unveiled topics and speakers for its upcoming “Science in Session” symposium and Natural Alternatives International (NAI) and CarnoSyn said they would showcase the health benefits of TriBsyn at the upcoming ESPEN nutrition congress.

Meanwhile, Abbott expanded its Pure Bliss by Similac line, while Abstrax introduced its latest gummy format. Also, Dyverg Brands launched a caffeine-free energy drink and PowerLife unveiled a supplement to aid in rehydration and nutrient delivery.

At the same time, EIT Foods and Mars Petcare opened an “innovation challenge” to create more sustainable pet food ingredients and Victor Super Premium Pet Food provided dog food ingredient recommendations for National Dog Day.

Lastly, a study found that reducing the threshold for access to semaglutide in Medicare could increase the US government program’s expenses by as much as US$145 billion annually.

Nutrition news

PLT Health Solutions revealed it has received an updated license from NNHPD to market its AprèsFlex 5-Day Joint Support Ingredient in the country. The low-dose Boswellia serrata gum resin extract was validated through four randomized, double-blind human clinical trials for its effectiveness in joint health. Health Canada approved a comprehensive list of claims for AprèsFlex, emphasizing its benefits in alleviating mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis symptoms, such as pain relief, improved joint function and cartilage maintenance. The company highlighted the rigorous scientific backing that supports AprèsFlex’s health benefits and its efficacy at 100 mg daily dosage.

Abbott expanded its Pure Bliss by Similac infant formula line.The CRN said it will hold its annual “Science in Session” symposium on October 9 as part of its Convergence event. The theme, “Living Well Longer: Bioactive Innovations for Healthy Aging,” will focus on the latest research in bioactives and longevity and include scientific presentations on topics such as healthy aging, cognitive function, bone health, inflammation, obesity and the impact of bioactives on health. Key speakers will explore innovative nutritional targets and the effects of bioactives. CRN will also introduce the first-ever Innovation Exchange and hold additional sessions on marketing and technological advancements in the dietary supplement industry.

The NAI and CarnoSyn will exhibit at the 46th ESPEN Congress on Clinical Nutrition & Metabolism in Milan, Italy, from September 7-10, 2024. The companies said they will showcase TriBsyn, a patent-pending formula designed to enhance the bioavailability of beta-alanine without the common side effect of paresthesia — a tingling or numbing of the skin. The event will provide a platform to highlight how TriBsyn meets the increasing demand for healthy aging and wellness solutions, as well as its applicability for a variety of consumer groups, including older adults, vegans and those looking to maintain muscle vitality and cognitive performance.

Business news

Abbott unveiled the expansion of its Pure Bliss by Similac line of infant formulas. The new offerings are organic, made in Europe and cater to parents seeking specific types of milk and ingredients for infant nutrition. The line includes products such as Pure Bliss by Similac Irish Farms — made from milk sourced from Irish cows — and Pure Bliss by Similac Organic, the only US Department of Agriculture-certified organic liquid formula available in US retail stores. Another addition, Pure Bliss by Similac Organic with A2 Milk, uses milk that naturally contains A2 beta-casein protein, similar to breast milk. According to Abbott, the expanded product line meets the modern consumer’s diverse dietary needs and preferences and ensures quality and convenience for parents and caregivers.PowerLife introduced Peak Replenish, a dietary supplement to aid in rehydration (Image Credit: PowerLife).

Product launches

Abstrax, a leader in cannabis flavor technology, introduced Gellies, a delivery format designed to enhance the flavor of CBD (Cannabidiol) and delta-9-THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)-infused gummies. The Gellies collection, which incorporates exotic flavor compounds from cannabis, aims to complement the plant’s natural flavors rather than mask them. The company utilized its Cloudburst Series flavor technology to ensure the flavors blend well with cannabis extracts. It also eliminates unwanted off-notes, addressing the common issue of unappealing flavors in cannabis edibles.

Dyverg Brands showcased its latest caffeine-free energy drink, Avvika. The beverage combines science-backed ingredients with trendy flavors to target health-conscious consumers seeking a natural boost without the adverse effects associated with caffeine. According to the company, Avvika is formulated to provide sustained energy and utilizes ingredients designed to support gut health, muscle recovery and mental clarity. These include ashwagandha, D-ribose, L-theanine, Rosa roxburghii fruit, Panax notoginseng, black pepper extract, Bacopa monnieri, soluble corn fiber and a B vitamin blend.

At the same time, Power Life introduced Peak Replenish, a dietary supplement for enhancing hydration and nutrient delivery for active individuals. Fitness expert Tony Horton emphasized the product’s blend of electrolytes, amino acids and essential minerals designed to support extended performance and recovery. The formula includes BetaPower and CocOganic Plus, which provide electrolytes like potassium, sodium and chloride, which are crucial for maintaining hydration, improving physical performance and accelerating recovery. Additionally, it contains magnesium and other compounds to support muscle relaxation, bone health and mood enhancement.

Pet Nutrition

EIT Food, in partnership with Mars Petcare, launched the “Open Innovation Challenge” to find new methods to convert fiber into protein and sugar for more sustainable pet food ingredients. This initiative taps into EIT Food’s network, including industry professionals, start-ups, research institutes and universities, to utilize agricultural byproducts, such as crop straw and vegetable waste. EIT Food highlighted the potential of transforming high-fiber agricultural byproducts into digestible pet food components and Mars Petcare expressed the need to advance sustainable food solutions. The challenge invites innovators to develop technologies that could be scaled significantly, with finalists participating in a virtual demo day and the possibility of creating a “proof of concept” with Mars Petcare.Victor Super Premium Pet Food published a list of recommended dog food ingredients for National Dog Day. 

In honor of National Dog Day, Victor Super Premium Pet Food provided insights into the complex world of dog food ingredients. It emphasized the impact of high-quality nutrition on a dog’s health and happiness. Key recommendations included choosing dog foods that list high-quality proteins like chicken, beef, lamb or salmon. It also recommended whole grains such as sorghum and brown rice for their fiber content and essential nutrients that support sustained energy without causing digestive issues like other grains might. Healthy fats and oils, such as chicken fat or salmon oil, were highlighted for their benefits to a dog’s skin, coat and vitamin absorption. Natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols and rosemary extract were recommended over artificial additives, which can cause health issues. Essential nutrients such as vitamins E and D, minerals like zinc and iron and probiotics were also noted for their role in promoting digestive health and supporting the immune system. Victor also emphasized the need to avoid ingredients that could impair a dog’s health, such as unnecessary sugars, which can lead to issues like weight gain.

Scientific studies

Recent research revealed that 61% of Medicare-eligible adults have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher, suggesting they might benefit from the weight loss medication semaglutide. However, new Medicare Part D guidelines limit semaglutide’s coverage to those with established cardiovascular disease (CVD), impacting eligibility. According to the study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the number of eligible patients varies based on the definition of CVD. With a narrow definition, only about one in seven Medicare beneficiaries with a high BMI would qualify, potentially increasing annual Medicare expenses by US$34 billion. If a broader definition, including any elevated cardiovascular risk, is used, costs could soar to US$145 billion annually.

By William Bradford Nichols