Beyond The Headlines: Vivici achieves GRAS status, FDA supplement directory revisited

23 Feb 2024 --- This week in nutrition news, Vivici’s fermentation-derived whey protein became commercially available to US customers after reaching self-affirmed generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Also, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated its directory of ingredients used in supplements, and Balchem appointed Stauber Performance Ingredients as its preferred supplier in the US and Canada.

Nutrition news 
Vivici achieved self-affirmed GRAS status in the US for its fermentation-derived whey protein — beta-lactoglobulin — now commercially available for its customers. The ingredient is a pure, nature-equivalent dairy whey protein containing all the essential amino acids the human body requires. It is also abundant in leucine and branched-chain amino acids and is rapidly absorbed in the blood plasma. Vivici highlights that its beta-lactoglobulin offers a more sustainable protein source that outperforms plant and whey protein isolates by having a higher concentration of amino acids beneficial for muscle growth and recovery. Its neutral flavor and clean color can be used across a wide range of products, including ready-to-mix protein powders, ready-to-drink beverages and protein bars. 

The US FDA has updated the agency’s Dietary Supplement Ingredient Directory, which now includes categories to classify the type of FDA action or communication for each listed ingredient. The directory aims to provide information on ingredients and other substances used in supplements and the agency’s actions, such as the FDA’s evaluation of health claims, safety communications and compliance and enforcement actions. After the update, the directory records the date the FDA added each listed ingredient and streamlines the introductory text on the page. The changes, including renaming the directory page to “Information on Select Dietary Supplement Ingredients and Other Substances,” resulted from constructive stakeholder feedback since the directory was initially published. The FDA cautions that the directory is not intended as a comprehensive list of all ingredients used in supplements and may not include all actions it has taken on a specific ingredient. Moreover, it reminds users that the agency does not approve supplements for safety and effectiveness. 

Pediatric nutrition company Bobbie announced its first products beyond infant formula, launching two organic infant supplements — Bobbie Organic Vitamin D Drops and Bobbie Organic Probiotic Drops. Both products contain organic ingredients that are non-GMO, GRAS and vegan. The vitamin D drops include a three-drop dose to help babies meet the daily recommended intake of 400 IU of vitamin D, supporting bone and teeth health, the immune system, healthy development and allowing the body to absorb calcium. Bobbie’s probiotic drops use two strains clinically studied to support colicky babies — Pediococcus pentosaceus and Bifidobacterium longum. The supplement is Clean Label certified, promotes healthy gut microflora in babies and helps ease colic, which affects 20-40% of all infants. 

Bobbie added two organic infant supplements to its infant nutrition offering, vitamin D and probiotic drops (Image credit: Bobbie).Industry news 
Balchem has appointed US supplement ingredient distributor Stauber Performance Ingredients as a preferred supplier in the US and Canada for its Albion Minerals, OptiMSM, VitaCholine and VitaShure brands. The distribution partnership will enable both companies to meet additional support and the demand for customized solutions. Stauber’s portfolio will assist customer segments in consolidating their buying processes and addressing potential R&D and production challenges. The company’s infrastructure and technological capability will synergize with Balchem’s global presence to improve reach and operational efficiency in the US and Canada. 

Supplement brand Gat Sport announced a collaboration with bodybuilder Jeremy Buendia, International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation Pro and four-time Men’s Physique Olympia Champion. The company comments that Buendia’s bodybuilding success “aligns perfectly with our core values.” According to Gat Sport, the collaboration sets the stage for various dynamic marketing campaigns, spotlighting the synergy between Buendia and its flagship brands — Nitraflex (pre-workout formulation) and Jetfuel Energy supplements. 

The health and wellness brand Applied Nutrition added two new members to its board to grow and support the company further. The company appointed Andy Bell as chairman and Tony Buffin, former CEO of Holland & Barrett, as a non-executive director. Bell founded AJ Bell, one of the largest investment platforms in the UK, managing around £75 billion (almost US$95 billion). Applied Nutrition’s CEO and founder, Tom Ryder, welcomes the experience of both gentlemen, with Bell’s track record of building companies and Buffin’s experience as CEO of one of the world’s leading health and wellness retailers. 

Jeremy Buendia joined forces with Gat Sport to promote its Nitraflex and Jetfuel Energy supplements (Image credit: Gat Sport).Pet nutrition 
Dog nutrition brand Badlands Ranch launched its products in independent pet stores in the US through a partnership with key distributors such as Phillips Pet Food and Supplies, Veterinary Service, American Distribution and Manufacturing Company and National Animal Nutrition. The company, founded by actress and animal advocate Katherine Heigl, provides superfood-packed dog food and treats for canine health. One of the company’s core products, Superfood Complete, includes turmeric, ginger and lion’s mane mushrooms. The expansion will enable more pet owners to have access to Badlands Ranch’s air-dried dog food, which aims to support dog health in skin and coat, digestion, immune function and energy levels. 

On this year’s “Love Your Pet Day,” veterinarian Dr. Marty Goldstein highlighted the importance of a well-balanced dog diet through Dr. Marty Pets Nature’s Blend for Essential Wellness. The freeze-dried raw dog food supports dogs’ overall health and a happy life. The food contains 81% premium cuts of meat, supplemented with antioxidant-rich seeds, vegetables and fruits. By freeze-drying the ingredients, the product helps preserve essential nutrients while being free from additives such as preservatives, fillers or synthetic ingredients. Dr. Goldstein also recommended that pet owners engage in playtime with their dogs to strengthen their bond through physical and mental stimulation and give dogs a pampering session to help them stay clean and feel special. 

Pet food by Badlands Ranch, founded by Katherine Heigl, is available in independent pet stores (Image credit: Badlands Ranch).Scientific studies 
An online US nationwide survey with over 1,000 adults revealed gaps between people’s aspirations and actions in prioritizing health. Nearly all respondents believe it is essential to plan a healthy life through good nutrition, but only half consistently maintain healthy eating habits four to seven days a week. Around 20% of respondents reported a lack of confidence in their knowledge of nutrition. Although most respondents say they feel prepared for a healthy future, almost one in four survey participants reported being less confident when comparing it to how they would plan for major life events, such as retirement, vacation, starting a family, getting married or buying a home. The survey was part of Avocados — Love One Today’s latest campaign to encourage US citizens to prioritize a more holistic approach to long-term health, similar to planning for long-term finances. The organization provides health and nutrition information about fresh avocados. 

US-based researchers have identified a link between cardiovascular disease and high levels of niacin, a common vitamin B previously recommended to lower cholesterol. The study, published in Nature Medicine, details the discovered pathway based on large-scale clinical studies. Higher circulating levels of 4PY — a breakdown product from excess niacin — were strongly associated with the development of heart attack, stroke and other adverse cardiac events in large-scale clinical studies. Preclinical studies have also shown that 4PY directly triggers vascular inflammation, which damages blood vessels and can lead to atherosclerosis — the buildup of fat and cholesterol in arteries. According to the research team, the pathway is a previously unrecognized but significant contributor to the development of heart disease. Niacin or vitamin B3 is commonly added to staple foods to prevent diseases related to nutritional deficiency, as supplements with different forms of niacin have become popular for anti-aging benefits. One in four subjects in the patient cohorts appeared to consume too much niacin and had high levels of 4PY. More research is needed to assess the effect of chronic elevation of 4PY levels. 

By Jolanda van Hal