CardiaBeat Improves Vitamin Absorption

01/03/07 Enzymotec has announced that recent results, obtained from the McGill human study, show that CardiaBeat could increase by 16% the absorption of beta carotene and other fat soluble vitamins as compared to standard sterol-esters. Thus, CardiaBeat turns to be the first phytosterol-based ingredient, which ensures optimal absorbance of these important nutrients.

This announcement follows Enzymotec entrance to the final stages of the NutrAward candidacy at the Supply Expo next week, and the launch of CardiaBeat by LifeGuard LLC group.

"Sterols and sterol-esters have one soft spot and this is their capacity to inhibit the absorption of fat soluble vitamins, such as beta-carotene. We are happy to show that CardiaBeat overcomes this soft spot as a result of its unique formulation of powerful ingredients." Says Michal Bravman, Marketing director in Enzymotec.

In recent years, Sterol-esters have proved themselves as very effective for both dietary supplements and functional foods, gaining health claim recognition from various regulatory authorities, including the US and EU.  The European functional food market for Plant sterols and sterol-esters is approx. 200 M$ (bulk) and is expected to grow by 10-12% each year. 

CardiaBeat is a conjugated matrix of sterol-omega-3, which exhibits multiple actions for CVD risk reduction in a compact form.  Previously it was shown to reduce LDL levels similarly to plant sterols while having also a  triglyceride  reduction effect. The triglyceride reduction was even greater in comparison with fish oil.

Enzymotec plans to continue investing research and marketing resources in CardiaBeat ingredient in order to acquire a leading position in this growing market.

CardiaBeat will be introduced in May 2007 at the VitaFoods Exhibition.