COVID-19 updates: Lockdown impact on nutrient intake

01 Apr 2022 --- Throughout the global COVID-19 pandemic, NutritionInsight is dedicated to bringing its readers all the latest and most relevant industry updates. Visit this news feed for the coronavirus information and insights you need to guide your business through this challenging period.

April 1

Pandemic-related loss of school lunches may have reduced the intake of key nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, according to a US study. Researchers compared estimated changes in lunchtime calories and nutrients consumed by National School Lunch Program participants between March and November 2020, compared to the same months in 2010. 

“Assuming 55% of lunches that would have otherwise been served in schools were replaced with emergency meals meeting NSLP standards, and the other 45% were replaced with home-prepared meals, excess weekly caloric consumption may have increased by up to 10 billion calories—the caloric equivalent of US children consuming nearly 41 million additional candy bars each week,” the study notes. 

Mitigating this damage may require stronger nutrition standards than are currently in effect for school meals and out-of-school meals, researchers add. Furthermore, findings suggest disparities between different groups. 

“Key nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D are important for growth and development. Those students most likely to participate in the NSLP – students who are Black, Hispanic, and from households with low incomes – already experience worse diet quality compared to their white and higher-income peers. Thus, the pandemic may have widened disparities in intake of critical nutrients.

March 23

Early enteral nutrition reduces the risk of mortality among critically ill patients with COVID-19, according to a UK review. Infected patients may have impaired nutrient absorption due to disruption of the normal intestinal mucosa and often have high inflammation, increased stress and catabolism, as well as a significant increase in energy and protein requirements.

“Therefore, timely enteral nutrition support and the provision of optimal nutrients are essential in preventing malnutrition in these patients. However, early enteral nutrition did not significantly reduce the length of hospital stay, length of ICU stay and days on mechanical ventilation compared to delayed enteral nutrition or parenteral nutrition, respectively. More studies are needed to examine the effect of early enteral nutrition in patients with COVID-19,” they note.

March 9

Balanced diets may be an effective measure to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in healthy young people, Polish researchers propose. Their investigation found that people with a balanced diet and an average daily consumption of over 500 g of vegetables and fruit and over 10 g of nuts had an 86% lower risk of COVID-19 compared with those whose diet was not balanced and who consumed lower amounts of these products.

“As nutritionists, dietitians and medics, we call for immediate social campaigns educating the public on how to eat properly and maintain normal weight to ensure optimal immune function, especially in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19. A healthier population might be able to counteract SARS-CoV-2 virus, preventing new waves of infections,” they write. 

March 8

A study has found lactoferrin, a glycoprotein, has inhibitory potential against select SARS-CoV-2 variants during in vitro settings. In the experiment, bovine lactoferrin supplied by Glanbia Nutritionals inhibited SARS-CoV-2 variant infection by blocking the virus’ ability to enter cells. The glycoprotein was also found to support cells’ antiviral defenses… Read More 

February 26

An Italian study review is highlighting that the safe intake of micro and macronutrients can be useful either for preventing infection and supporting the immune response during COVID-19. It could also be beneficial during the post-acute phase, i.e., “long COVID,” which is sometimes characterized by the onset of various long-lasting and disabling symptoms. However, they note that more research is needed before approving their therapeutic use in this pathology.  

“Unfortunately, there are no conclusive data in this field, but many studies are ongoing. Mainly, studies on the use of micro and macronutrients in COVID-19 patients should be improved. If effective, nutrients could have the potential to change the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Last but not least, the use of micro and macronutrients is a relatively inexpensive and easy to manage treatment, needing no hospitalization,” write the scientists.

February 23

A Swedish investigation has uncovered a connection between severe COVID-19 and adults who had had high BMIs as older teenagers. The researchers used data of 1,551,670 men born between 1950 and 1987 who had been conscripted for military service in their late teens. The higher their BMI had been at the time of conscription, the more likely they were to have required hospitalization for COVID-19 years later. This was true even for men in the 22.5-25 BMI range, which is considered to be the upper level of “normal” weight.

“At population level, we can see that being overweight in the late teens raises the risk of hospitalization and intensive care for COVID-19. For those with teenage obesity, the risk of admission to an intensive care unit is more than twice as high as for those with a BMI of 18.5–20,” says Josefina Robertson, a researcher at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg.

February 21

Vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc supplements do not reduce the chance of dying from COVID-19, according to a US review from the University of Toledo that includes over 5,600 hospitalized patients. However, the analysis did find that treatment with vitamin D may be associated with lower rates of intubation and shorter hospital stays, but the researchers say more rigorous study is needed to validate that finding.

“It’s important for people to understand that taking a lot of these supplements does not translate into better outcomes. The other important message is that the answer to this disease is the vaccine. Micronutrient supplements will not offset the lack of vaccination or make you not need the vaccine,” stresses Dr. Ragheb Assaly, a UToledo professor of medicine and the paper’s senior author.

A separate UK study from King’s College London has found that gut health is compromised in severe COVID-19 patients. The researchers examined samples of intestines from people who have died of the disease. They found that the system that would normally regulate the composition of the microbial communities – otherwise known as Peyer’s Patches – were severely disrupted in severe COVID-19. This was irrespective of whether there was evidence of virus present in the gut or not.

February 17

Iron and folate deficiency screening is “imperative” for pregnant women in the COVID-19 context, urge researchers. The recommendation follows a new study that reveals SARS-CoV-2 infections can increase the risks for negative outcomes for the mother and the newborn in women who are anemic. 

Puerperal infection, emergency c-section and small for gestational age were the most prevalent complications associated with anemic COVID-19 patient mothers. Birth weight showed a wide variation by nutritional supplementation during pregnancy. A daily combination of iron and folate was the optimal choice to normalize birth weight.

“It is recommended to supplement the nutritional intake of these two [nutrients] to promote the normal development and growth of the newborn and avoid multiple complications during pregnancy in the COVID-19 pandemic setting,” write the researchers. 

The study, conducted at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Romania, identified 446 pregnancies that matched inclusion criteria from the hospital database. A total of 95 pregnant women were diagnosed with COVID-19, having a significantly higher proportion of iron deficiency anemia. 

February 4

A new Israeli study has shown a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 severity and mortality. The study is among the first to analyze vitamin D levels prior to infection, which facilitates a more accurate assessment than during hospitalization, when levels may be lower secondary to the viral illness. Notably, patients with vitamin D deficiency (less than 20 ng/mL) were 14 times more likely to have severe or critical cases of COVID-19 than those with more than 40 ng/mL. Additionally, mortality among patients with sufficient vitamin D levels was 2.3%, in contrast to 25.6% in the vitamin D deficient group.

“Our results suggest that it is advisable to maintain normal levels of vitamin D. This will be beneficial to those who contract the virus. There is a clear consensus for vitamin D supplementation on a regular basis as advised by local health authorities as well as global health organizations,” says Dr. Amiel Dror, who led the study. 

January 26

The risk of developing “long COVID” may be linked to the make-up of one’s gut microbiome, according to a new study in Gut. Therefore, the researchers propose that microbiome profiling might help identify those who are most susceptible to developing the condition.

In their study, they tracked changes in the gut microbiome via the stool of 106 patients with COVID-19, as well as 68 people without COVID-19. Notably, the gut microbiome of patients who didn’t develop long COVID was similar to that of those who hadn’t had COVID-19. Among the bacteria species found in patients with long COVID, 28 species were reduced and 14 were enriched both at hospital admission and at 3 and 6 months after hospital discharge. Overall, 81 bacterial species were associated with different categories of long COVID and many species were associated with more than two categories of persistent symptoms.

January 24
An Italian study has found that an adequate administration of whey protein to COVID-19 patients in ICU may achieve protein targets quickly. It also reduces the duration of mechanical ventilation and improves inflammatory status and ICU survival. Of the 32 patients enrolled in the study, 95% showed a gradual reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) values and an increase in pre-albumin levels after the whey protein enteral formula. The researchers note that pre-albumin seems to be useful in survival rate prediction in ICU patients.

“The anti-inflammatory properties of whey proteins could have an important adjunctive role in the treatment of high inflammation-generating infections such as the new SARS-CoV-2 virus. These preliminary results will ensure further larger prospective controlled investigations in this field,” the authors write. 

Meanwhile, people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with incomplete vaccination, non-mRNA vaccines and combination therapy are associated with an increased risk of adverse events during breakthrough COVID-19 infections. This is according to a new study presented at the Crohn’s & Colitis Congress. The researchers note there has been very little data on the impact of COVID-19 for vaccinated patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Their investigation used data from the Surveillance Epidemiology of Coronavirus Under Research Exclusion in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (SECURE-IBD) database to describe outcomes and identify risk factors for severe disease from COVID-19 infection in this population. 

January 21 

An evaluation of vitamin D clinical studies concludes that the vitamin may benefit those with mild or asymptomatic COVID-19, and those with greater 25(OH)D values may have a lower risk of acquiring infection. Because those at greatest risk of COVID-19 are also at the greatest risk of vitamin D deficiency, the author says it is reasonable to recommend vitamin D supplementation at 15-20 mcg daily for the general population during the pandemic. However, the paper warns that vitamin D doses greater than 100 mcg daily should not be used without monitoring serum 25(OH)D and calcium. Additionally, it notes that few clinical trials of vitamin D supplementation have been completed and they have shown no benefit of vitamin D in hospitalized patients.

“The timing of vitamin D administration and phase of illness may be critical to observe its benefit in COVID-19. Randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm beneficial effects of vitamin D suggested by observational studies. Further studies of the dose, timing and interaction of vitamin D with other treatments are indicated,” author Tom Thacher of Mayo Clinic writes. 

A separate interdisciplinary team of researchers from the University of Chicago has found evidence that CBD can inhibit infection by SARS-CoV-2 in human cells and in mice. The researchers now say that clinical trials should be done to determine whether CBD could eventually be used as a preventative or early treatment for COVID-19. They caution, however, that the COVID-blocking effects of CBD come only from a high-purity, specially formulated dose taken in specific situations. 

“No one would have ever thought that CBD blocked viral replication, but that’s what it did. Especially as we are seeing that the pandemic is still nowhere near the end – determining whether this generally safe, well-tolerated and non-psychoactive cannabinoid might have antiviral effects against COVID-19 is of critical importance,” says senior author Marsha Rosner. 

January 19

An analysis of 110 breast milk samples has found no evidence of recently infected mothers transmitting infectious SARS-CoV-2 through breast milk to their babies. The authors found that while a low proportion of breast milk contained COVID-19 genetic material, this did not translate into the presence of infectious replicating viral particles or lead to evidence of clinical infection with SARS-CoV-2 in breastfeeding infants. Although the authors caution that their sample size is small, this is currently the largest study to analyze breast milk in this context.

January 14

The US Supreme Court has blocked the Biden Administration’s vaccine and testing mandate for businesses, which was promoted as a way to save lives, protect the economy and accelerate the path out of the pandemic. The Natural Products Association (NPA) is applauding the move, having previously filed two petitions arguing the rule would slow delivery times and drive-up costs for consumers, retailers and manufacturers. 

“We weighed in on this case because we were deeply concerned about the impact this rule would have on our businesses’ ability to meet demand for natural products during a historic labor shortage and supply chain crisis. We are pleased with the outcome, and we will continue to focus our attention on expanding access for natural products that have skyrocketed in demand during the pandemic,” says Daniel Fabricant, NPA’s president and CEO.

January 13

US scientists from Oregon State University have identified hemp compounds that can prevent SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, from entering human cells. They tested both cannabigerolic acid (CBDA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBGA), which were equally effective against the SARS-CoV-2 alpha variant B.1.1.7 and the beta variant B.1.351. The researchers conclude these orally bioavailable cannabinoids with a long history of safe human use, have the potential to prevent and treat infection by SARS-CoV-2. This is both as an isolate or in a hemp extract. 

“With widespread use of cannabinoids, resistant variants could still arise, but the combination of vaccination and CBDA/CBGA treatment should create a more challenging environment with which SARS-CoV-2 must contend, reducing the likelihood of escape,” the scientists write. 

Chr. Hansen is reporting a “stronger-than-expected” start for its Human Health business in its Q1 2021/2022 results. The Denmark-based company says this is driven by market rebound. However, it expects the probiotic market will remain volatile… Read more

January 12

A clinical trial has found that a probiotic formulation from AB-Biotics, part of the Kaneka Group, exhibits “significant” positive effects in COVID-19 outpatients – possibly by influencing the gut-lung axis (GLA). Notably, AB21 was associated with reduced viral load, duration of symptoms and improved rate of remission… Read more

January 10

Women vaccinated against COVID-19 transfer SARS-CoV-2 antibodies to their breastfed infants. This is according to University of Massachusetts Amherst research, which suggests the mothers may be giving their babies passive immunity. Crucially, the antibodies were detected in infants regardless of age – from 1.5 months old to 23 months old. The study examined immune response to the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine in both breast milk and the stools of 30 breastfed infants.

“This research is the first to detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in stool samples from infants of vaccinated mothers. This is really important because women want to know whether their babies have these antibodies, and our study shows that antibodies are being transferred via breast milk. Providing this compelling evidence is motivation for women to continue breastfeeding after they receive the vaccine,” says lead author Vignesh Narayanaswamy. 

January 6

The UK has launched a Better Health marketing campaign aiming to help people prevent risks of developing serious illness and help reduce the risk of being hospitalized with COVID-19. As a result of being overweight, over three in five adults (63% of the adult population) are at an increased risk from serious diseases and becoming seriously ill with COVID-19, according to the Department of Health and Social Care.

The campaign highlights six lasting benefits of losing weight, including the decreased risk of 12 cancers such as colon, liver, pancreas, kidney; lowered risk of increased blood pressure; reduced risk of heart disease; less risk of developing diabetes; less strain from chronic back and joint pain; and decreased risk of being hospitalized or becoming seriously ill with COVID-19.

Better Health is partnering with 15 weight management and physical activity partners who are providing both free and discounted offers. 

January 3

Nutritional Products International (NPI), a global brand management firm based in the US, is flagging that the US economy now exceeds pre-pandemic levels, with the trade deficit jumping almost 18 percent in November. While imports rose 4.7 percent, exports decreased 2.1 percent, according to the US Commerce Department. CEO and founder Mitch Gould says that US consumers buying foreign products is good news for the international health and wellness brands that NPI represents.

“Once again, the US economy is leading the way in our new normal economy. US consumers have been on a buying spree, aided in part by rising wages, stimulus checks, and an economy that has shown great resilience during the past two years. There will be bumps in the road going forward. The Federal Reserve is concerned about inflation, but also predicts the unemployment rate will drop to 3.5 percent in 2022 from the current 4.2 percent,” anticipates Gould. 

December 17
Diet-based mitigation may be used hand-in-hand with vaccination against COVID-19, argues a new study from Mexico. The analysis of 236 patients with suspected COVID-19 found that those who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and had an increased habitual intake of legumes, grains, bread and cereals showed decreased overall symptom severity.

“Even such a [small] study shows how important the effect of diet can be. The study does not negate the essential attention to vaccination. Alternatively, it shows how diet management can help vaccination mitigate the burden of COVID-19. The outcomes of our study provide a base for considering the diet for close contacts to COVID-19 patients and can be promoted for further explorations,” says corresponding author Dr. Claudia Lerma. 

A separate US study found that the percentage of infants fully breastfed at one, three and six months significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic among participants of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Southern California. The percentage of infants who received any breastfeeding also decreased during these time periods. 

“The shift to remote services delivery and the corresponding reduction in live support of WIC services due to the pandemic may explain the decline in breastfeeding rates and the increase in early weaning in 2020. Another possible explanation is the mixed messages that new parents received regarding the safety of COVID-19 and breastfeeding,” explain the study authors. 

December 15

The Natural Products Association (NPA) is asking the US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit to uphold a stay for the Biden Administration’s COVID-19 vaccination and testing rule. This follows a November 17 petition to declare the Biden Administration’s vaccine mandate – which aims to save lives, protect the economy and accelerate the path out of the pandemic – unlawful. 

“Our members are looking at a mass exodus of employees right around the holiday season if the stay is lifted. Since filing our initial petition, we have heard only more concerns from our members about how this rule will impact their bottom lines and ability to effectively meet demand for natural products that millions of Americans rely on,” argues Daniel Fabricant, NPA’s president and CEO. 

December 14

Advertisements for unhealthy food and energy drinks on live-streaming gaming platforms like Twitch increased substantially during the pandemic. This is according to a US study, which found that energy drinks made up the vast majority – nearly 80% – of marketing, but ads for restaurants, soda, processed snacks, alcohol, and candy were also present. The researchers warn that as these live-streaming platforms are often popular with children and teenagers, the ads could shape their thoughts around unhealthy foods and beverages. 

“This type of marketing can normalize high-fat, high-sugar and high-sodium foods at a time in young viewers’ lives when they’re developing eating habits that are going to follow them into adulthood,” says Caitlyn Edwards, postdoctoral scholar of nutritional sciences at Penn State. 

November 29

A study on French university students revealed that more young adults are suffering from eating disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over a period of 14 months, starting from the onset of the pandemic, one in two female students and one in three male students were affected by an eating disorder. Bulimia was the most prevalent of all. Researchers noted depression and added stress linked to COVID-19 such as academic disruption and fear of infection, was associated with a risk of eating disorders among students.  

November 26

In contrast to a host of studies spotlighting the negative impacts of the pandemic on children’s nutrition, new Canadian research suggests that eating environments in early childhood education and care settings actually improved. Educators completed the Creating Healthy Eating and Activity Environments Survey and Mindful Eating Questionnaire self-audit tools, revealing that scores improved during the pandemic in 2020. The researchers suggest that this could be attributed to a change in government-mandated COVID-19 guideline policy.

November 23

A study carried out in Chile has revealed that the COVID-19 lockdown has had a negative impact in the lifestyle of children and adolescents. Researchers explored feeding behavior and lifestyle a year after Chile went into lockdown, using an online survey with 1083 parents and caregivers. According to the results, 23.4% and 23.7% declared healthy feeding behavior and lifestyle respectively. Healthier feeding behavior was associated with fewer family members and parents or caregivers with at least an undergraduate degree.

November 17

The Natural Products Association (NPA) is petitioning the US Court of Appeals to declare the Biden Administration’s vaccine mandate unlawful. Promoted as a way to save lives, protect the economy and accelerate the path out of the pandemic, employers with more than 100 employees must now ensure that each of their workers is fully vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 on at least a weekly basis. These employers must also provide paid time for employees to get vaccinated and ensure all unvaccinated workers wear a face mask in the workplace.

However, the NPA says the regulation imposes an unrealistic timeline and significant economic burden on US businesses. 

“Vaccine and testing mandates will only slow delivery times and drive up costs for consumers, retailers and manufacturers. This could damage the ability to keep products on store shelves that consumers have relied on to stay healthy for the past 20 months,” says Daniel Fabricant, president and CEO of NPA. 

November 12

Mothers who have previously recovered from COVID-19 or are vaccinated produce breast milk with active SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, which provide neutralization against SARS-CoV-2. This is according to a US study of 77 mothers, which marks the first time such evidence has been discovered for IgA and IgG antibodies. However, the researchers warn that it’s not yet shown whether these breast milk antibodies can provide protection against COVID-19 for nursing children.

Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is warning about products being inappropriately promoted for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19. Therefore, it is reminding advertisers to “be very careful when considering making therapeutic claims related to novel coronavirus.” Additionally, any representation made in the advertising of therapeutic goods that refers to novel coronavirus (explicitly or by implication) is a “restricted representation” and cannot be used without prior approval from the TGA.

November 5

The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is arguing that the government of the District of Columbia, US, should update its COVID-19 messaging to recommend that citizens shore up vaccine efficacy with a plant-based diet. Dr. Neal Barnard, president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, points to the COVID Symptom Study. It included more than half a million participants and found that people eating more fruits, vegetables and plant-based foods had a 41% lower risk of severe COVID-19.

November 4

Mounting research correlates higher vitamin D blood levels to lower incidences or severity of COVID-19, according to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN). The US-based non-profit applauds the “significant link” found in most – but not all – of 13 meta-analyses from over 100 clinical trials specifically studying the vitamin and COVID-19... Read more

November 1

Prolacta Bioscience, a hospital provider of 100% human milk-based nutritional products, says it has developed the first nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) capable of directly detecting the presence of infectious disease-causing pathogens in donated breast milk, including SARS-CoV-2. This addresses the concern that a milk donor could contract a pathogen, which could be passed along undetected in their breast milk after the initial or subsequent blood screenings. Because NAAT directly tests the milk itself, Prolacta can ensure that both the donor (through the blood screening) and the donated milk are tested for infectious disease-causing pathogens.

“Elevating the safety of donor milk to include direct real-time testing for viruses and bacteria is a transformative advancement in the human milk industry and adds another critical layer of safety before pasteurization. The infants fed our nutritional products are extremely fragile, so we take all precautions possible to ensure their safety,” says Scott Elster, president and CEO of Prolacta.

October 27

Around 9,720 VEG 1 plastic-free supplements were distributed to charities, food banks and others struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. The supplement contains vitamin B12, iodine, vitamin D and selenium and was donated to organizations that support people experiencing financial hardships, while living on a vegan diet. 

Researchers will be discussing findings of studies related to the impact of COVID-19 on obesity, during the 39th Annual Meeting of The Obesity Society (TOS) at ObesityWeek 2021. Topics of discussion include the rising trend of childhood obesity and whether telemedicine can be effective for weight management. The online event is set to take place online between November 1 and 5.

October 20

The US National Institute of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements has included Specialty Enzymes & Probiotics’ ImmunoSEB and ProbioSEB CSC3 in its Fact Sheet for Health Professionals: Dietary Supplements in the Time of COVID-19. The publication highlights a clinical trial where people experiencing muscle weakness and brain fog post-COVID-19 were given the enzyme and probiotic blends. According to the fact sheet, after 14 days of treatment, fatigue resolved in 91% of individuals who took the enzyme and probiotic supplement and only 15% of individuals who took the placebo. 

A new study published in Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses indicates that overweight and obesity may impact symptoms in patients with mild forms of COVID-19. An investigation of 522 adults and children found that those who were overweight or obese experienced more symptoms, especially respiratory symptoms of cough and shortness of breath, compared with other individuals.

October 13

The children of parents who experienced stress during COVID-19 may have developed worse eating habits, according to a new study from the University of Houston College of Education. Parents do not have the time, energy or emotional capacity to engage in optimal feeding behaviors, so they resort to maladaptive feeding behaviors such as using food as a reward or pressuring their kids to eat, say the researchers. To ensure children are optimizing their eating habits in the event of another public health emergency, the research team says policymakers or nonprofit organizations should provide support systems to help parents manage their daily stressors.

As part of the Consumer Insights Program of the High-Value Nutrition (HVN) Ko Ngā Kai Whai Painga National Science Challenge, New Zealand researchers are shedding light on how businesses catering to Chinese expatriates have been impacted. While generally there was a decline in demand for some products, there was an increased demand for health-related products, particularly immunity-related products. While these companies did not see customers’ trust in New Zealand brands changing much in the pandemic, they suspected that some of their customers had turned to domestic channels for New Zealand brands or had switched to Chinese local brands. This may be partly due to concerns of international parcels being contaminated by the virus.

September 27

Next week, in-person attendees of Vitafoods Europe in Geneva, Switzerland, will be required to present a COVID certificate, providing evidence of COVID-19 vaccination, recovery from the disease or a recent negative test. Swiss venues will accept EU Digital COVID Certificates, as well as certificates from Norway, Lichtenstein, Iceland and Turkey. In addition, the Canton of Geneva has announced that venues will be permitted to accept all foreign vaccination certificates for vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). These certificates are valid in paper or digital form and can be written in any language, provided a translation in English, German, Italian, French or Spanish is available on the same document. 

COVID-19 lockdowns left more than a million people with diabetes in the UK without access to the routine blood testing they need properly to manage their ailment. This is according to research being presented at the Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD). Estimates extrapolated from data from six testing centers across the UK, covering around 6% of the total population, indicate that 2.5 million diagnostic diabetes tests were missed or delayed during the six-month lockdown (an average of 400,000 a month) in the UK – including 213,000 missed pre-diabetes and 68,500 missed diabetes diagnoses, with the resulting delay in lifestyle advice and treatment.

September 24

An analysis of online food orders and delivery in Singapore reveals that unhealthier eating habits emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown. These changes have persisted, even after lockdown measures were removed. The researchers stress that unhealthy eating behavior formed during the pandemic could result in undesirable long-term health consequences, such as coronary heart disease, chronic diseases and Alzheimer’s disease.

A Canadian study has revealed the knock-on effect that stresses around lockdown-related food insecurity had on mental health. Specifically, people who felt food worry were almost two times more likely to report worsened mental health compared to those who didn’t have this concern. They had higher odds of feeling anxious or depressed, and had triple the odds of experiencing suicidal thoughts. 

“This study echoes a growing body of evidence that clearly shows that far too many Canadians worry that they don’t have stable access to enough food to meet their household’s basic needs. It also reflects the important overlaps between several of our most pressing public health challenges including poverty, inadequate and inequitable access to food, and poor mental health,” says Dr. Jennifer Black, one of the paper’s authors and an expert on food, nutrition and health who teaches in the faculty of land and food systems at the University of British Columbia.

September 21

One in five US parents reports that their children ate fast food more often during the pandemic, according to the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health. Around one in six parents say their child eats fast food at least twice a week, reports the nationally representative poll, which is based on responses from 2,019 parents of children aged 3-18. However, half of parents said that their kids had home-cooked meals more often since the pandemic shutdowns began in March 2020.

“We were encouraged to see that for many families, pandemic-related lifestyle changes seemed to actually prompt healthier eating habits. But for others, there were challenges and demands that may have made it difficult to maintain healthy eating, which can negatively impact children’s health,” says Dr. Gary Freed, poll co-director and Mott pediatrician.

September 6

A Russian study has found that most hospitalized COVID-19 patients have vitamin D deficiency. The researchers conclude that severe vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk of serious and fatal outcomes of COVID-19 infection. Their data revealed that patients with severe coronavirus infection have the lowest serum 25(OH)D levels. Additionally, obesity independently worsens disease prognosis by at least six times, requiring an integrated approach in managing such patients. 

“Moreover, severe vitamin D deficiency appears to be a strong independent negative predictor, even when adjusted for age, sex, and comorbidities, that worsens disease prognosis by four times,” the researchers add. 

August 30

Nellson has shared insight into current pandemic-related supply chain challenges, and ways in which it is helping brands navigate and overcome them. Factors such as ingredient availability, delayed shipping and shifting consumer demand for healthier foods have driven the food ingredient market into a “frenzy.” Key ingredients like inulin and protein are in short supply, making it difficult for brands to get products manufactured and on store shelves. 

“Our brand partners benefit from our large volume and footprint, our extensive strategic procurement knowledge and our solid network of market contacts. Being proactive is key, as we anticipate the next hurdle and find creative solutions to counter it before it happens,” says Francis Rinfret, vice president global supply chain and client interface of Nellson. 

27 August

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is dedicating US$300 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to conduct surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging and zoonotic diseases in susceptible animals and build an early warning system to alert public health partners to potential threats so they can take steps sooner to prevent or limit the next pandemic. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is the lead agency responsible for implementing the early warning system and is inviting public comment on a strategic framework that outlines how the Agency will focus its efforts to prevent, detect, investigate and respond to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as well as other emerging and zoonotic diseases that could pose a threat to both people and animals. 

USDA will build upon its existing infrastructure to implement a risk-based, comprehensive, integrated disease monitoring and surveillance system domestically, and enhance collaborations with national, regional, and global partners to build additional capacity for zoonotic disease surveillance and prevention using a One Health approach. This holistic approach will benefit all of animal agriculture and the wildlife community by expanding our ability to collect surveillance data and increase our diagnostic and epidemiologic capacity, which will better enable us to rapidly detect and respond to new disease threats and provide early warning intelligence to our public health partners.

26 August 

Evolva has reported accelerated revenue growth in its half-year 2021 results, bolstered by “ongoing strong momentum” in Health Ingredients. Oliver Walker, CEO of Evolva, says: “Despite all the challenges thrown at us by the pandemic, we progressed our strategy, accelerated product revenue and are on track to deliver positive gross profit across products from Q4, 2021.” Read more...

25 August

As the plant-based market moves further into the mainstream, consumers are looking for the most nutritious plant-based NPD. The COVID-19 pandemic has helped create a shift amongst consumers toward a new holistic view on sustainability. Read more... 

August 20

Charity organization Bloomberg Philanthropies has channeled a US$31 million investment into the expansion of its Partnership for Healthy Cities network into six new cities – Bucharest, Romania; Cairo, Egypt; Córdoba, Argentina; Dublin, Ireland; Greater Manchester, UK; and Warsaw, Poland. The city of Córdoba will initially focus on COVID-19 vaccine outreach to older adults who have difficulty reading and writing or are hesitant about being vaccinated. Last year, the Partnership provided support for cities’ COVID-19 response. Read more…

Around 60 percent of employed Lumen users lost weight during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is according to a survey of 1,043 customers that consistently measured their metabolism with Lumen and who worked from home during the pandemic from August of 2020 and onward. The results are surprising as the pandemic is a time when most US consumers reported gaining weight and experienced a general decline in their health. Read more…

August 19 

Korean ginseng brand CheongKwanJang, under Korean Ginseng Corporation (KGC), has observed a prominent upsurge in the demand for red ginseng to improve immunity and health since the outbreak of COVID-19 in Korea. CheongKwanJang accounted for approximately 70 percent of the entire red ginseng market in the first half of 2021. Read more…

A study of A&B Ingredients’ P. Acidilactici probiotics demonstrated the effectiveness of said probiotics in modulating the body’s immune response and controlling inflammation, which causes difficulty in breathing and other symptoms of long-COVID. Researchers are hoping to understand the relationship between the COVID-19 virus and the body’s immune response. “In particular, they are researching the hyper-inflammatory response generated in the body after an infection by the COVID-19 virus. This abnormal immune reaction has resulted in severe respiratory difficulties in many people who have contracted and been infected by the virus,” says O’Neill. Read more…

August 18 

A study published in the Cardiology Journal “statistically and significantly” associated low-serum vitamin D levels with the risk of COVID-19 infection. The new coronavirus study review revealed the number of reports indicating the potential role of vitamin D deficiency in COVID-19 cases are increasing. The review highlights that patients suffering from COVID-19 were more likely to be overweight, obese or older in age. Read more…

August 10

A survey of 10,000 Japanese consumers before and after lockdown restrictions were imposed and lifted has revealed that most lifestyle changes were reversed when stay-at-home restrictions ended. These include changes in physical activity, snacking and food intake. However, increased alcohol and body weight changes (both gains and losses) persisted. The researchers say that this points to the need for close monitoring for further health outcomes and age-appropriate measures to encourage favorable health behaviors. 

August 6

The Integrative Healthcare Symposium has been canceled for this year. The US event had been scheduled to take place September 18-20 at the New York Hilton Midtown, but the hotel has temporarily suspended operations due to the ongoing pandemic. Therefore, it could not guarantee it would be open in time to host the 2021 Symposium. However, the 2022 edition will proceed in New York as scheduled February 17-19. 

August 4

US school food authorities (SFAs) saw drastic decreases in revenue even as they shouldered regular operating costs during the COVID-19 pandemic-related school closures. This is according to a study, which details how SFAs reconfigured their usual operations with nearly no preparation time while simultaneously trying to keep staff from contracting COVID-19. They also had to accommodate stakeholders with sometimes competing priorities and remain financially solvent. The study authors emphasize the need for disaster preparedness plans that help SFAs better navigate the switch to financially viable community distribution methods in case of future crises. 

July 23

A history of malnutrition in COVID-19 patients may increase the risk of death and the need for mechanical ventilation, according to a US study published in Scientific Reports. Of 520 children with severe COVID-19, 39 (7.5 percent) had a previous diagnosis of malnutrition, compared to 125 (1.5 percent) of 7,959 children with mild COVID-19. Of 11,423 adults with severe COVID-19, 453 (4 percent) had a previous diagnosis of malnutrition, compared to 1,557 (2 percent) of 81,515 adults with mild COVID-19. The authors suggest that public health interventions for those at the highest risk of malnutrition may help mitigate the higher likelihood of severe COVID-19 in this group.

July 22

An extract made from natto – a fermented soybean dish consumed in Japan – may inhibit the ability of the virus that causes COVID-19 to infect cells, according to a new study based on cell cultures. “Traditionally, Japanese people have assumed that natto is beneficial for their health,” says paper author Tetsuya Mizutani, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention Research at the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. “In recent years, research studies have revealed scientific evidence for this belief. In this study, we investigated natto’s antiviral effects on SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and bovine herpesvirus 1 (BHV-1), which causes respiratory disease in cattle.”

COVID-19 has had a major impact on consumer habits around supplementation, stress levels, sleep quality and overall well-being, according to two US surveys... Read more

July 20

Research from the Standing Together for Nutrition consortium (ST4N) projects that the COVID-19 pandemic and its socio-economic effects will cause a devastating increase in child malnutrition. Without immediate action, an additional 283,000 malnutrition-related deaths in young children are estimated by 2022. An additional 141 million people cannot afford a healthy diet due to the pandemic. 

“Closing the affordability gap and ensuring good nutrition for all – especially children, adolescent girls and pregnant and breastfeeding mothers – is crucial for saving lives today and securing families and nations’ future health and development. Getting nutrition right today will determine whether the consequences of COVID-19 will be felt for months, years or decades to come,” says Dr. Saskia de Pee of the UN World Food Program.

July 9

The pandemic has rolled back decades of progress in the fight against malnutrition, with community health systems in developing countries now facing significant challenges in providing care and treatment to those in need. This is according to Eleanor Hevey, UK advocacy director of the Eleanor Crook Foundation, who will speak about COVID-19’s impact on global malnutrition at a Big Tent Ideas Festival panel tomorrow. 

“We are living in a time of unprecedented connectivity and a time of groundbreaking innovation in global health and sustainable food systems. There is a unique opportunity to come together – communities, policymakers and the private sector – to address these critical global challenges and help eradicate malnutrition,” she urges. 

July 6

Supplementation with Indena’s quercetin Phytosome could aid the early conditions of COVID-19 and reduce symptom severity when used in combination with standard care. This is according to the results of two human studies, which suggest that this polyphenol, whose properties in supporting respiratory health are scientifically proven, could be a potential adjuvant to manage early stage conditions of COVID-19. Moreover, it statistically shortens the timing of molecular test conversion from positive to negative. 

“According to the results of this clinical research, the add-on therapy with quercetin Phytosome has significantly reduced the need (-68.2 percent) and the length (-76.8 percent) of hospitalization, the need of non-invasive oxygen therapy (-93.3 percent), the progression to intensive care units (none versus 8 subjects) and the number of deaths (none versus 3 subjects),” says Dr. Ikram Ujjan of Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, Pakistan.  

June 30

The COVID-19 pandemic has permanently boosted consumer interest in immune health, according to Innova Market Insights. In addition, the market researcher notes that younger generations are expressing greater concern for protection against future pandemics and the threat posed to physical and mental well-being... Read more

June 28

Diabetes is the greatest risk factor for an accelerated progression of COVID-19 to a severe state in Japanese patients, according to a study conducted by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Diabetes has remained a substantial risk factor for COVID-19 throughout the pandemic. One out of every ten hospitalized patients with diabetes and COVID-19 dies within seven days of admission. 

“Our findings shed light on the combined threat of COVID-19 and diabetes has on global population health and reinforces the importance of diabetes prevention more than ever before,” notes Shizuka Kaneko, Ph.D. and lead author of the study.

Vinamilk, Vietnam’s largest dairy firm, has made nutrition and financial contributions to the global fight against COVID-19, with a total value of US$3.7 million. The contribution will help the Vietnamese government, medical forces, the local Vietnamese and overseas communities where Vinamilk’s businesses are located, battle COVID-19. It also launched a campaign called “a healthy you for a healthy Vietnam” to promote a healthy lifestyle.The company granted the Vietnamese government US$872,000 to provide free vaccinations to Vietnamese citizens, particularly individuals between the ages 12 to 18 years old.

June 25

Sabinsa’s Curcumin C3 Complex with BioPerine was used as adjuvant therapy for COVID-19 in a double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial conducted on COVID-19 patients in India. Patients in the group who received the C3 Complex with BioPerine adjuvant treatment showed quicker symptomatic recovery and better ability to maintain oxygen saturation. The researchers conclude that the curcuminoid-piperine combination could help reduce morbidity and mortality and ease the logistical and supply-related burdens on the healthcare system.

“While larger trials will be needed to establish the findings of the study on a firmer footing, it is gratifying to learn of these promising preliminary results,” says Dr. Muhammed Majeed, founder and chairman of Sami-Sabinsa group.  

June 24

Researchers are warning about the effect of extended pandemic lockdowns on eating behaviors, as intake of high-energy density foods (HED) has risen for many people. Over half of the UK respondents (53 percent) in the Appetite-published study reported increased snack intake, 26 percent reported decreased snack intake and 20 percent reported no changes to the amount of snacks they ate during the lockdown. The findings show that for some people, especially those who have difficulty controlling food cravings, the COVID-19 lockdowns were a “risky” time period for increased food intake.

June 23

A Pharmavite study has revealed that US pharmacists have compromised their health and well-being by working longer hours to meet the increased demand for their services over the course of the pandemic. However, eight in ten report that daily vitamin supplementation was an important part of their own routine, and three-quarters said there has been a surge in patients requesting information about vitamins and supplements since the beginning of the pandemic. 

“Whether returning to practices lost during the pandemic or incorporating new ones moving forward, it’s important to remember that nutrient intake is an essential part of good health along with quality sleep, exercise and other stress-reducing practices,” says Rhonda Hoffman, chief marketing officer for Pharmavite.

June 22

Lallemand has donated US$100,000 to UNICEF Canada via the COVAX Facility to support COVID-19 vaccination. With over 4,500 employees on five continents and a worldwide presence, Lallemand has also set up a global dollar-for-dollar employee matching campaign, up to an additional US$25,000. This means that a total of US$150,000 could be donated to the global vaccination efforts.

“The global pandemic will not end until it is over for everyone, everywhere. The COVAX Facility was set up to ensure COVID-19 vaccines are delivered equitably globally and UNICEF is a key player in this effort,” says Antoine Chagnon, president and CEO at Lallemand.

June 15

COVID-19 survivors with moderate or severe obesity may have a greater risk of experiencing long-term consequences of the disease, compared to patients who are not obese. This is according to a study by the Cleveland Clinic hospital in the US, published in the journal of Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. Multiple studies have previously identified obesity as a risk factor for developing a severe form of COVID-19 that may require hospital admission, intensive care and ventilator support in the early phase of the disease. Obesity weakens the immune system and creates a chronic inflammatory state. This can lead to poor outcomes after an infection with SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19.

June 14

Nearly two-thirds of UK consumers have made dietary changes in the last year to improve their health, according to a new survey commissioned by The British Nutrition Foundation (BNF). The survey examines how people’s diets and lifestyles have shifted in the year since the pandemic began... Read more

June 11

As the US gets the COVID-19 pandemic under control and society starts to go back to “normal,” many consumers are wary of the impacts this shift will have on various areas of health, including the gut. This is according to a survey commissioned by prebiotic fiber brand Benefiber, which also reveals that 52 percent of US consumers have experienced an increase in digestive problems in the past year... Read more

June 9

UK and Indian researchers are investigating how green tea could give rise to a drug capable of tackling COVID-19. They screened and sorted a library of natural compounds already known to be active against other coronaviruses using an artificial intelligence-aided computer program. The findings suggest that one of the compounds in green tea could combat the coronavirus behind COVID-19.

“The compound that our model predicts to be most active is gallocatechin, which is present in green tea and could be readily available, accessible and affordable. There now needs to be further investigation to show if it can be proven clinically effective and safe for preventing or treating COVID-19,” says Dr. Suresh Mohankumar of Swansea University, UK. 

George Mason University, US, researchers are examining the potential anti-coronavirus activities of an over-the-counter drink called Respiratory Detox Shot (RDS). The remedy contains nine herbal ingredients traditionally used in Eastern medicine to manage lung diseases. The researchers reported that RDS inhibited the infection of target cells by SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses and by infectious wild-type SARS-CoV-2. Their results suggest that RDS might broadly inhibit respiratory viruses, such as influenza.

June 7

A Canadian study from McGill University has found no genetic evidence that vitamin D works as a protective measure against COVID-19. They examined genetic variants of 14,134 individuals with COVID-19 and over 1.2 million individuals without the disease from 11 countries. Among people who did develop the disease, there was no difference between vitamin D levels and likelihood of being hospitalized or falling severely ill.

“Vitamin D supplementation as a public health measure to improve outcomes is not supported by this study. Most importantly, our results suggest that investment in other therapeutic or preventative avenues should be prioritized for COVID-19 randomized clinical trials,” state the study authors. 

June 4

The AGR-149-Infectious Diseases group at the University of Cordoba, Spain, is doing research that focuses on cow’s milk compounds as a possible source of COVID-19 control. The researchers note that physiologically, milk contains biocomponents that are highly protective against infections. The researchers aim to make a supplement that would boost the immune system through a dairy preparation with a high level of antibodies, helping the system control infection through different immune pathways.

“It has been shown that the immune cells that the vaccinated animal generates against bovine coronavirus are capable of controlling other coronaviruses as well, such as SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19,” says Mari Carmen Borge, one of the study’s principal investigators. 

A Cleveland Clinic, US, study has revealed that survivors of COVID-19 who have moderate or severe obesity may have a greater risk of experiencing long-term consequences of the disease than patients who do not have obesity. Future studies are planned to confirm the findings of this study that suggest obesity is a major risk factor for the development of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). 

May 28

A Nutrients study revealed adolescents aged 12-18 living in Catalonia, Spain, cut back on their consumption of cereals and vegetables but increased their intake of convenience foods during the pandemic’s first wave. The figures show that the risk of a less nutritious diet is 21 percent greater for adolescents from more socioeconomically disadvantaged positions. The researchers advise public administrations to foster actions and policies that help prevent future lockdown situations. There is further a need to analyze whether these changes, which arose over a short period of time, will remain in place in the long term.

May 25

Research presented at this year’s Digestive Disease Week revealed that patients’ bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms unexpectedly improved when they were under COVID-19 stay-at-home orders. The researchers have raised the possibility that staying at home meant IBS patients were not exposed to outside stress and were better able to avoid food triggers. The investigation included 129 IBS patients in Argentina, which had one of the longest lockdowns in the world. 

May 24
Snacking and eating occasions are becoming more prevalent. According to Glanbia Nutritionals, several factors contribute to the increase in snacking, including cultural shifts, more regular snacking amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the upending of usual food rituals... Read more

May 12

The Council of Responsible Nutrition Foundation launched a consumer education website on vitamin D and COVID-19. Called Vitamin D & Me!, the website tracks and summarizes clinical studies on vitamin D and COVID-19. It shares research, expert video interviews, news and education in a user-friendly format, with a focus on US consumers aged 55 and above. 

Waiving patents for COVID-19 vaccines for “any period of time” could undermine US innovation, according to the Natural Products Association. Its concerns regard the “damaging impact” the broad waiver may have on the nutritional supplement industry. 

“It risks setting harmful precedent for the industries investing the most in intellectual property protection,” adds patent law expert Kevin Bell, partner and co-chair of the Intellectual Property Practice. “The unintended consequences of this decision could result in a weakened patent system and less innovation in the future.”

May 6

Almost 50 percent of parents and guardians on the island of Ireland say that children are eating more treats since the start of the pandemic, according to Safefood. Adults are also finding it difficult to keep the amount of treats their children eat to a minimum. Safefood is promoting its START campaign, which focuses on the critical moment when a child asks for a treat and supports parents in taking a stand in saying no in order to re-start their kids on the way to healthier habits.

“This past year has not been easy for parents and has had a significant impact on what we eat and how active we are as families. We know that physical lockdowns, home-schooling and a lack of social contact have all contributed to this situation. But as measures are slowly eased, it brings the hope that parents can re-start those healthy habits at home,” says Joana Da Silva, Safefood’s chief specialist in nutrition.

The Vitamin Shoppe is offering a free healthy snack or beverage to any US consumer with a documented COVID-19 vaccine shot. The omnichannel retailer is also offering up to four hours of pay for hourly employees who get vaccinated. 

“We want to encourage and reward our customers who get vaccinated with a healthy boost to their day, by giving them a choice of their favorite nutrition-packed protein bar, snack or drink – compliments of The Vitamin Shoppe and Super Supplements. It’s our way of playing a supporting role during this crucial phase of defeating COVID-19,” says Sharon Leite, CEO of The Vitamin Shoppe. 

April 29

BASF is signaling economic recovery from COVID-19 in its Q1 2021 results, which saw 16 percent sales growth to hit €19.4 billion (US$23.5 billion). This was mainly due to higher prices and volume growth. However, Nutrition & Care, which accounted for 10 percent of BASF’s 2020 sales, saw a sales dip of 3 percent compared with Q1 2020... Read more

April 26

A high dose of vitamin D3 was not found to improve the condition of moderate to severe COVID-19 patients. The Brazilian clinical trial gave 240 patients 200,000 IU of vitamin D3 or a placebo on admission to the hospital. Now published in JAMA, the study was inspired by previous trials that showed that in certain situations, vitamin D and its metabolites can have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects, as well as modulating the immune response. 

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is increasing food assistance to low-income seniors – a population that has been especially hard-hit by the pandemic. It will provide nearly US$37 million in additional support to the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). States and Tribal nations will receive the new funding from the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act to serve additional seniors, in addition to up to US$2.6 million in administrative funds from a previous COVID-19 relief bill.

April 20

In efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the UK government’s partnership with Unilever has provided soap, sanitizer and surface disinfectants to one billion people with poor access to sanitation. The campaign has delivered 75 million Unilever hygiene products – more than three times the original target – to 60 countries. These have been donated by Unilever’s leading hygiene brands, including Lifebuoy and Domestos. Other initiatives include instructing on deep cleaning of public buildings, installing over 500,000 handwashing stations globally and running information campaigns across TV, radio and social media in 37 countries.

Published in Frontiers in Immunology, a study analyzing SARS-CoV-2-infected patients’ blood samples revealed their immune cells, triggered by the gut’s response to infection, were limited in number when compared to immune cells that had been triggered elsewhere in the body. The consequence is that guts may not provide long-lasting systemic immunity from COVID-19. The researchers speculate that if the gut-imprinted immune cells are diluted in comparison to immune cells triggered by other parts of the body, there could be implications for the oral-based COVID-19 vaccines currently under development.

April 15

A Frontiers in Nutrition-published study found evidence that the Ramadan fasting pattern could produce a number of immunological benefits, which could potentially bolster the body against susceptibility and symptoms of SARS‐CoV‐2. The effects of fasting on immunity include changing the body’s response toward infection, inflammation and oxidative stress. Decreases in C-reactive proteins and pro-inflammatory cytokines have also been noted... Read more

April 13

A University of Minnesota Medical School study has identified a correlation between the pandemic and six unhealthy behaviors. The researchers say the most concerning finding indicates a slight increase or the re-emergence of eating disorders, which kill roughly 10,200 people every year. The six behaviors are: 

• Mindless eating and snacking.
• Increased food consumption.
• Generalized decrease in appetite or dietary intake.
• Eating to cope.
• Pandemic-related reductions in dietary intake.
• A re-emergence or marked increase in eating disorder symptoms.

A research letter published in JAMA suggests that antibodies found in the breast milk of women who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine could have a protective effect against SARS-CoV-2 infection in the infant. The prospective cohort study included 84 women in Israel, who provided 504 breast milk samples. Mean levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2-specific IgA antibodies in the breast milk increased rapidly and were significantly elevated at two weeks after the first vaccine, when 61.8 percent of samples tested positive, increasing to 86.1 percent at week four.

Consumers today are more aware of the role nutrition can play in promoting health and wellness. That is according to Stefanie De Roover, the newly appointed sales director for EMEA at Beneo. Speaking to NutritionInsight, De Roover shares her insights on the pandemic and how it is changing the way consumers look at personal health... Read more

PharmaNutra reports positive preliminary results for its nutritional supplement Apportal in patients suffering from post-COVID-19 fatigue, also known as long COVID-19. Apportal contains phytoextracts and amino acids, blended with nutrients that target immunity (vitamin C and D) and the muscular system (magnesium)... Read more

April 12

Israeli researchers based at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have created a new company to develop and commercialize drug candidates based on molecules isolated from probiotic kefir yogurt. This follows an investigation finding that they may help combat pathogenic bacteria and treat various inflammatory conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease and cytokine storms related to COVID-19... Read more

April 8

The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, the founding partners of the Workforce Nutrition Alliance, have developed new online assessment and planning tools for employers to use in developing or enhancing their workforce nutrition program. The tools are built on a four-pillar framework that supports: healthy food at work, nutrition education, nutrition health checks and breastfeeding support. 

“We are delivering these new tools at an important moment in time – when COVID-19 is threatening the health and well-being of workers worldwide. By helping to bring healthier eating to employees at their workplace, we bring in a strategy for scalable success that can reach millions of people worldwide,” says Lawrence Haddad, GAIN executive director.

Meanwhile, new research highlights that the pandemic could reverse gains made in achieving Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 2, toward no poverty and zero hunger, respectively. This is according to a study analyzing bean production and food security across 11 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. It found COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions to significantly impact bean production. Border controls and high transport costs have led to drops in production of the key food security crop.

April 7

On World Health Day, the European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance (ESSNA) spotlights how social distancing due to COVID-19 poses serious challenges to physical and mental health. 

“If there is one thing that the pandemic has made evident, it’s that keeping people healthy and active for longer has a positive impact on productivity and competitiveness, and benefits society as a whole. The sports and active nutrition industry has a big role to play in supporting citizens during these challenging times,” it states. 

April 1

A Brazilian study has suggested that a high-fiber diet may play a role in controlling the inflammation associated with COVID-19. Compounds produced by gut microbiota during the fermentation of insoluble fiber from dietary plant matter do not affect the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to enter and replicate in cells lining the intestines. While in vitro treatment of cells with these molecules did not significantly influence local tissue infection, it reduced the expression of a gene that plays a key role in viral cell entry and a cytokine receptor that favors inflammation.

Health Marketing Team (HMT) is shedding light on how COVID-19 is causing some consumers to seek emotional comfort by going back to their roots. It notes how right after the COVID-19 outbreak, a nutritional narrative shift appeared in how people see specific food products, which occurred among many consumers staying home. Instead of relying on known and proven facts about nutrition, many people embraced ancient health tips and home remedies, HMT says. Additionally, consumers are choosing products that are familiar to them or with which they have an emotional connection. 

March 24

COVID-19 patients who consumed AB-Biotics’ probiotics once a day for a month saw “significant” impacts on remission rate, duration of symptoms and viral load. The placebo-controlled, double-blinded clinical trial sheds light on the gut-lung axis and has now been submitted for peer review... Read more

COVID-19 has made immunity benefits a huge factor in the choices people make about the food they eat, according to Dr. Miguel Freitas, vice president of scientific affairs at Danone North America. Freitas sits down with NutritionInsight to discuss how probiotics can help with immunity, which of them are truly beneficial for health and spotlights a study Danone is funding on the COVID-19 and probiotics link... Read more

March 16

SupplySide East has been postponed to August 24 to 25, 2021. The US trade show had originally been scheduled for June 2021. The location will remain at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus, New Jersey. After reviewing government and facility restrictions, anticipated gathering guidelines in New Jersey and listening to industry feedback, the team is assured that the rescheduled August dates will be the right time for the nutrition community to convene.

The Natural Products Association (NPA) is calling for New York to prioritize vaccinations for essential workers in the nutritional supplement industry. NPA’s president and CEO says that this is a “common-sense solution that will ensure front-line workers in the nutrition industry can continue safely providing millions of Americans with access to products that keep them healthy.”

March 11

Two new studies awaiting publication suggest that vitamin D has no significant impact on COVID-19 outcomes. The findings challenge circulating studies that suggest vitamin D plays a role in mitigating the coronavirus’s effects... Read more

March 10

Cannabis sativa extracts that are high in CBD may help down-regulate ACE2 expression in target COVID-19 tissues, according to a study published in Aging-US. Using artificial 3D human models of oral, airway and intestinal tissues, the researchers identified 13 high-CBD C. sativa extracts that decrease ACE2 protein levels. The ACE2 receptor provides the entry point for SARS-CoV-2 to infect human cells. Some C. sativa extracts down-regulate serine protease TMPRSS2, another critical protein required for SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells, write the study authors.

The USDA is extending several waivers that allow all children to continue to receive nutritious meals this summer when schools are out of session. This allows for safe meal distribution sites that serve all children for free, regardless of income. The USDA flags that up to 12 million US children are living in households where they may not always have enough to eat. These summer meals will provide relief to many children in families who have been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and are fighting daily to put food on the table.

March 5

Administrating zinc supplements to deficient COVID-19 patients could help reduce mortality and recovery time, as well as prevent risk groups, like the elderly, from suffering the worst effects of the disease. This is according to a Spanish study from Hospital del Mar, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM) and Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), which has now been published in Nutrients. The researchers analyzed 249 patients’ zinc levels, and one in four had low levels of the nutrient. This group had more severe symptoms and higher levels of inflammation. On average, their hospital stay was three times longer than patients with higher zinc levels, and they were more likely to die. 

With National Consumer Protection Week coming to a close, US supplement manufacturers have received stern reminders of the importance of following the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s food safety regulation... Read more

March 4

Risk of death from COVID-19 is ten times higher in countries where over half the population is classified as overweight. This is according to a report released by The World Obesity Federation (World Obesity) today to mark World Obesity Day... Read more

Kerry expects the functional beverage market to gain traction and see a surge of NPD targeting consumers who are approaching health holistically due to the COVID-19 threat. This is based on new Kerry research, which found that 65 percent of functional beverage consumers are more worried about their health since the start of the pandemic... Read more

March 1

Consumers increasingly turn to sleep and relaxations supplements to tackle COVID-19 stress and this market is pegged for further growth in 2021, according to PharmaLinea experts... Read more

Kappa Bioscience is funding the first-ever human clinical trial to explore the potential benefits of vitamin K2 supplementation in COVID-19 patients. The trial, which is in partnership with Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Netherlands, has begun enrolling participants. The primary objective is to evaluate whether vitamin K status affects the degradation of elastic fibers in the lungs. Results are expected in the fall. 

“Based on the recently published science, it is important to seek more understanding about the role of vitamin K2 (as menaquinone-7) in COVID-19 through research collaborations with experts in the field. We are committed to supporting ongoing projects in this important research area. We also welcome other researchers to engage and illuminate the potential roles for vitamin K2 in immune health,” says Trygve Bergeland, vice president of science at Kappa Bioscience.

February 26

A new paper points to growing evidence that vitamin B6 exerts a protective effect against chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes by suppressing inflammation, inflammasomes, oxidative stress and carbonyl stress. The researchers hope that these findings will help lower the odds of patients becoming seriously ill with COVID-19. 

“Recently, many scientists have published papers regarding the role of diets and nutrients in the protection against COVID-19. However, very few scientists are paying attention to the important role of vitamin B6,” says author Thanutchaporn Kumrungsee. 

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with abnormal sodium levels in the blood have an increased risk of experiencing respiratory failure or dying, according to a new study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. This research finds that patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and low sodium are twice as likely to need intubation or other means of advanced breathing support as those with normal sodium. Additionally, patients who develop high sodium levels during the hospital stay were three times more likely to die than those who have normal sodium levels throughout hospitalization.

February 23

Along with an outside consultant, ChromaDex scientists have written a study review arguing that zinc and vitamins B3, C and D hold promise in reducing the risk or severity of COVID-19. However, they acknowledge that firm conclusions await the results of various trials... Read more

February 22

In a move applauded by the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), a US representative has introduced a House resolution that recognizes the potential role vitamin D may play in decreasing the severity of COVID-19. While the preventative benefits of supplementing may hold promise, a new Brazilian study has cast doubt on the abilities of vitamin D3 to reduce the hospital stay of patients with COVID-19... Read more

February 19

The researchers behind the COVID A to Z study, which found zinc and vitamin C did not help patients with COVID-19, are standing behind their findings despite backlash from the CRN. NutritionInsight speaks with experts from both sides of the debate... Read more

February 17

BBB National Programs’ National Advertising Division (NAD) is highlighting the “explosion of challenges” to health product advertisements that expressly or impliedly claim to protect consumers and their families from the COVID-19. The watchdog emphasizes that truth in advertising is important to protect consumers and help level the playing field for fair competition in the marketplace. This core concept becomes especially important when advertising health-related products, including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements. 

February 8

Zinc supplements for men and women attempting to conceive during the COVID-19 pandemic may prevent mitochondrial damage in young egg and sperm cells, as well as enhance immunity against the virus. This is according to researchers from Wayne State University School of Medicine, US, who are now saying that zinc supplementation of up to a maximum of 50 mg per day for all adults could be beneficial in enhancing immunity and fighting the viral disease process of COVID-19.

An investigation from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, US, is suggesting that problems in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract may be vulnerable to infection after swallowing the virus. Researchers found that although cells in a healthy esophagus cannot bind to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, esophageal cells from patients with Barrett’s esophagus have receptors for the virus. These cells can bind to and become infected by the virus that causes COVID-19.

February 3

Nonprofit industry bodies are calling on the new US administration to address what they say are “record levels” of nutrition insecurity, which is raising disease rates and exacerbating racial and economic inequalities throughout the country... Read more

January 29

Vitamins A, D and K, as well as antiviral drugs, may bind to SARS‐CoV‐2’s viral spike protein and thus reduce infectivity. In contrast, cholesterol may increase infectivity, which could explain why having high cholesterol is considered a risk factor for serious disease... Read more

January 27
Lonza has reported a “strong” performance for its 2020 financial year. Notably, the Capsules & Health Ingredients segment benefited from increased demand for nutritional supplements caused by the COVID-19 pandemic... Read more

New types of supplements are providing another way to ensure that people are consuming the nutrients they need to maintain their health. The COVID-19 pandemic has compounded public concerns over issues such as immunity and given the nutrition industry newfound scope and responsibility to meet changing demands. NutritionInsight talks with experts from Fonterra, Lonza and ADM about the developing trends arising from fresh scientific research and ever-evolving consumer needs... Read more

January 26

Brexit has exacerbated uncertainty around Scotland’s hemp and CBD market, which could have major knock-on effects. Kyle Esplin, chair of the Scottish Hemp Association, speaks to NutritionInsight about how industry can bounce back and the regulatory considerations surrounding whole plant hemp extracts and novel foods... Read more

January 21

The Family Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation (FLRF) has donated US$200,000 to an investigation into how COVID-19 vaccines could impact breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Currently, breastfeeding women have not been included in any SARS-CoV-2 vaccine trials. The lack of data has led to some concerns about whether breastfeeding women should get vaccinated. 

“Recommending that breastfeeding women forego either vaccination or breastfeeding will have tremendous global public health consequences, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. We believe that vaccinating breastfeeding women will also benefit the breastfed infant,” says Dr. Lars Bode, professor of pediatrics and director of the Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation Mother-Milk-Infant Center of Research Excellence (MOMI CORE) at UC San Diego.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is not on track to achieve the UN’s 2030 targets of ending hunger. A new report by four specialized UN agencies outlines how nutritious food affordability is crucial to ensure food security for all, particularly for mothers and children... Read more

January 18

A pilot study of 100 COVID-19 patients has found that very long-chain omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 infection. The researchers say that if an association is confirmed with a larger sample size, then this would lay the groundwork for testing the effects of increased oily fish intake or an inexpensive, safe and widely available dietary supplement in the form of DHA and EPA capsules. This could optimize outcomes during this public health crisis, the researchers note. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant worsening of already poor dietary habits, low activity levels, sedentary behavior and high alcohol consumption among university students. This is according to a Canadian investigation from the University of Saskatchewan, which followed 125 vulnerable graduate and undergraduate students for four months. The study, now published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism, found that the students consumed less food every day during the pandemic compared to before. For instance, they ate 20 percent less meat, 44 percent less dairy and 45 percent fewer vegetables. 

January 13

After nearly a year of lockdown restrictions and social distancing requirements across the globe, many consumers are resorting to home workouts to keep fit, while others are putting on the pandemic pounds as a result of eating for comfort. NutritionInsight speaks to industry experts from Gelesis, Gencor, OptiBiotix Health and PLT Health Solutions about the pandemic’s various influences on the weight management sector and what lies ahead for 2021... Read more

January 12

Microbiome transplants have been proposed as a potential treatment for individuals suffering long-term symptoms of COVID-19. This is in light of the discovery that the gut microbiome may influence the severity and longevity of COVID-19 symptoms... Read more

January 8

A study has explored real-time personal and employee safety experiences and perspectives of school nutrition professionals ranging from frontline staff to state leadership across the US. Carried out during the early weeks of the pandemic, it found that 94 percent of respondents had significant concern for risk of transmission or risk of exposure to COVID-19 while they were at work as they interacted with people in the community and their coworkers. Another theme that emerged was a concern with the processes, including administrative interactions, logistics, and protocols for serving emergency meals. Personal concerns were also rampant, with respondents describing feelings of exhaustion, fear and stress

January 6 

Public Health England (PHE) is launching a “Better Health new year” campaign to encourage the nation to improve its health. PHE’s survey of 5,000 adults found that over 80 percent of people have decided to modify their lifestyle in 2021, with seven in ten adults saying that they are motivated to make healthier lifestyle changes due to COVID-19. Nearly half the population feel more motivated than they did last year to make changes to their life in January. Overall, 40 percent of adults aged 40 to 60 plan to eat more healthily, while 39 percent and 41 percent respectively will lose weight and exercise more. 

“The past year has been immensely challenging and being stuck at home much more this year, understandably, has seen some unhealthy habits creeping up on us all. But our survey shows the vast majority of us want to do something positive this year to improve our health and now is a good time for a reset, whether it be eating more healthily, being a healthier weight, getting more active, stopping smoking or doing more to look after our mental health,” says Dr. Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at PHE.

January 5

A potential link between vitamin K levels and COVID-19 symptom severity and mortality has been flagged by a team of researchers from Bispebjerg Hospital, in Denmark. Led by Professor Allan Linneberg, director of Center for Clinical Research and Prevention, the researchers investigated whether low vitamin K status could be a common characteristic of hospitalized COVID-19 patients... Read more

December 23

An online campaign is advocating for increased vitamin C supplementation to combat COVID-19. Its petition is currently signed by over 100 doctors and 200 nutritionists, calling for the UK government and its public health and nutrition agencies to recommend to all citizens to supplement with vitamin C during the pandemic.

Similarly, international healthcare experts are calling for “immediate” increased vitamin D intakes in an open letter to global governments and policymakers. The accumulating scientific evidence showing vitamin D’s influence on COVID-19 is “very likely causal, not just correlation...” Read more

December 16

A survey commissioned by biotechnology company Gelesis found that 71 million US consumers have gained weight throughout the pandemic. However, as a new year approaches, the survey also found that, months into the pandemic, US consumers are more determined than ever to lose weight and maintain healthy habits.

“In a year when we've all already given up so much, our data shows that people would give up even more if it meant being able to lose weight by the end of the year and they remain hopeful about losing weight and feeling healthy in 2021,” says Elaine Chiquette, Gelesis’ chief scientific officer.

An editorial published in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation argues that telemedicine should be used to diagnose and treat dysphagia. This will protect clinicians throughout the pandemic, as their work tends to put them in contact with body areas frequented by SARS-CoV-2. 

December 15

Functional ingredients that can mitigate stress, improve sleep and focus are high on consumers’ agendas as the COVID-19 pandemic presses on. Adaptogens such as ginseng, rhodiola, Bacopa monnieri or holy basil can be positioned to help consumers dynamically cope with whatever difficult situation at hand. IFF Health, Naturex and Lubrizol Life Science elaborate... Read more

Mood-enhancing supplementation demand will surge during winter COVID-19 lockdowns, according to Ayanda company Sirio Europe and the European nutraceutical and pharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO)... Read more

December 11

Walmart is preparing to administer COVID-19 vaccines once they are approved in the US. The retail giant is entering into agreements with states to be able to support vaccinations where needed. This could be in Walmart’s pharmacies or long-term care facilities where the states determine they need Walmart’s help. Notably, 90 percent of the US population lives within 10 miles of a Walmart, meaning the company could have a major role in the vaccination program. 

An article published in The Journal of Dental Research argues that the pandemic has revealed the need for consensus on the definition of “essential oral healthcare.” The experts provide a layered model for the term, integrating urgent and basic oral healthcare, as well as advanced and specialist oral healthcare. This layered approach to the definition of essential oral healthcare allows for categorization and prioritization with available resources and needs in mind, the authors note. 

December 10

Two NHS workers may have had an anaphylactoid allergic reaction to the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Pfizer has emphasized that the vaccine was generally well-tolerated in the phase 3 clinical trial, with no serious safety concerns reported by the independent Data Monitoring Committee.

“It seems that the advice now has been upgraded so that people should not be vaccinated with this vaccine if they have a history of allergic reactions severe enough to require them to use an EpiPen (Adrenalin) to inject when they get a severe allergic reaction. This is the correct risk minimization action,” comments Professor Saad Shakir, director of the Drug Safety Research Unit (DSRU) near Southampton and who is not directly involved with the vaccine.

GNC Holdings is now offering self-administered testing kits for COVID-19 to US consumers via online channels. This announcement is a result of GNC4U’s ongoing partnership with 1health, a Testing as a Service (TaaS) company. 

“With so many organizations requiring tests for various reasons including traveling or playing sports even if individuals aren’t experiencing symptoms, it became obvious that consumers were looking for an easy and accurate take home testing option. As an authority in the health and wellness space, we felt it was our responsibility to offer a quality solution and quickly partnered with the team at 1health to deliver that to our consumers,” says Ryan Ostrom, GNC’s chief brand officer.

December 8

The US Natural Products Association (NPA) is continuing to emphasize the importance of health food stores remaining open in California. NPA stresses that state public health officials should follow guidance issued by the Department of Homeland Security in August regarding essential businesses.

“Our businesses are going to stay open to serve local communities just as they did in the spring. Public health officials must take a health-first approach to fighting this virus that includes ensuring US Americans have access to nutritional supplements to support their health,” says Daniel Fabricant, NPA’s president and CEO. 

An analysis in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior has revealed that most US jurisdictions mentioned school meal provisions in school closure announcements; provided easily interpretable information or maps about meal sites; and included detailed information about school meal provisions in their COVID-19 landing webpages. However, fewer provided updated and comprehensive implementation guidance; referenced school closures in emergency declarations; had clear communication/outreach to families; or partnered with anti-hunger organizations. 

December 7

Opting for a COVID-19 vaccine may not be a clear-cut decision for vegans. The Vegan Society flags that medications go through animal testing and use animal products in their manufacture, making it “impossible” to have a vaccine that has been created without animal use. As there is no plan for compulsory vaccination, the Vegan Society maintains that it is each individual’s responsibility to make an informed decision about vaccines, bearing in mind the definition of veganism, with support from their local healthcare team.

According to research from the Trussell Trust, 73 percent of UK food bank users receiving government-provided Universal Credit are repaying advance payments compared to 51 percent pre-pandemic. The Trussell Trust has called upon the UK government to immediately suspend all benefit debt deductions during the upcoming winter months and bring forward planned easements to deductions until at least the spring. The calls follow the research findings that 47 percent of households who use food banks were in debt to the UK Department of Work and Pensions during the summer compared to 37 percent in February. 

December 3

COVID-19 has created an opportunity for new players to break into the sports nutrition market as consumers with more time on their hands turn toward exercise. These consumers value the importance of exercise, have relatively high disposable income and look for science-backed solutions to support health and performance. Roel van de Put, business development manager at Lonza Capsules & Health, shares with NutritionInsight how the pandemic has resulted in a renewed focus on the performance capabilities of industry products... Read more

December 2

An analysis of 300,000 UK users of the ZOE COVID Symptom Study App found that supplementation of probiotics, omega 3 fatty acids, multivitamins or vitamin D was associated with a lower risk of self-reported SARS-CoV-2 infection. Caution with these findings is warranted given the study is observational and cannot determine a causal relationship. “We must now wait for randomized controlled trials,” flags the study’s corresponding author... Read more

December 1

The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced immunity in the infant nutrition sector, emphasizing the role of vitamins, minerals and especially oligosaccharides, a group of ingredients closely linked to immunity. NutritionInsight spoke with experts from Lallemand Health Solutions, FrieslandCampina Ingredients, NZMP and Vaneeghen on how infant nutrition trends reflect trends trailblazed in the adult market and overlap with immune health concerns... Read more

Chemical compounds found in green tea, muscadine grapes and dark chocolate can bind to and block the function of the main protease (Mpro) in SARS-CoV-2 – the virus that causes the disease known as COVID-19. The biologists behind a new study flag that if proteases are inhibited, cells cannot perform many important functions – like replication. “If we can inhibit or deactivate Mpro, the virus will die,” says study co-author De-Yu Xie... Read more

November 30

Over 2.5 million people in England deemed vulnerable to COVID-19 will now be offered free vitamin D supplements for the winter. The UK’s Department of Health and Social Care says that these groups have spent more time indoors this year, putting them at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency. Deliveries will be free of charge, starting in January, and will provide four months’ worth of supplements to last the 2.7 million people through the winter months... Read more

November 26

The COVID-19 crisis has led to a sharp rise in immunity positionings, while NPD skyrocketed in the past year. NutritionInsight spoke with industry experts about the trendiest immunity ingredients and their health benefits... Read more

Industry experts also revealed to NutritionInsight how the sector will evolve in a post-COVID-19 era. They predict that the pandemic’s aftermath will see a pronounced focus on healthy eating and connectivity, with e-commerce thriving... Read more

Traditional immunity solutions are proving popular with consumers as they turn toward comforting and time-tested offerings in an era of uncertainty. Pharmactive is addressing these demands with its Mediterranean-inspired Olivactive, Isenolic and IsenolicComplex products... Read more

Fonterra has launched a new range of milk phospholipids to manage the effects of stress. Naturally present in milk as part of the milk fat globule membrane, NZMP Milk Phospholipids are complex lipids positioned to help consumers “stay focused and positive.”... Read more

November 25

The US-based Natural Products Association (NPA) has hit back at the Oregon Department of Justice’s proposed rule that would restrict health claims for nutritional supplements. The potential rule intends to clamp down on offerings marketed as interacting with COVID-19 without having “competent and reliable scientific evidence.” However, the NPA argues that the proposal would confuse consumers, raise costs for taxpayers and do nothing to protect public health. 

Obese patients with COVID-19 had a significantly associated with a lower risk of hospital and intensive care unit admission if they had a history of bariatric surgery. The Cleveland Clinic study, published in Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, examined 4,365 patients. In contrast to 42 percent of the control group patients who required hospitalization after contracting COVID-19, only 18 percent of the patients in the weight-loss surgery group needed hospitalization. 

November 24

A Lycored survey has found that two in three consumers are concerned they are not getting enough vitamin D as a result of spending more time indoors during the pandemic. This concern was particularly high among Millennials, with three quarters of 25 to 34-year-olds worried about vitamin D deficiency. Lycored is spotlighting the role of vitamin D supplementation during the COVID-19 outbreak, as it helps regulate levels of calcium and phosphate, which are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Lycored surveyed 500 physically active consumers in the US, Australia and New Zealand.

Patients with abnormally high glucose levels were more than twice as likely to die from COVID-19 than those with normal readings. They also had an increased need for a ventilator and intensive care admission (ICU). This is according to research published in the peer-reviewed open access journal Annals of Medicine. The researchers are now calling for compulsory hyperglycemia screening and early treatment for anyone hospitalized with COVID-19 who is non-diabetic. 

November 16

The UK’s secretary of state for health and social care, Matt Hancock, has made a formal request for the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and Public Health England (PHE) to produce recommendations on vitamin D for prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The recommendations will be based on a systematic review of the available evidence and are due to be published by the end of the year. 

November 13

An investigation into vertical COVID-19 transmission from mothers to fetuses has proposed that lactoferrin may reduce viral docking and entry into host cells and limit the early phase of COVID-19 infection. The researchers argue that an in-depth understanding of lactoferrin and other soluble mammalian milk-derived innate antiviral factors may provide insights to reduce co-morbidities and vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This could also lead to the development of effective nutraceutical supplements.

People with allergic diseases, including food allergy, eczema and asthma are no more likely to have severe cases of COVID-19 than those without these allergies. The new study, presented at this year’s virtual American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting, examined 275 patients with COVID-19 over two months. In terms of ICU admission, 43 percent of patients with allergic disease were admitted versus 34 percent without. 

November 11

Factors including age, race and gender can make vitamin C transports less efficient, thus affecting its effectiveness as a potential therapy against maladies, including COVID-19. Researchers from the Medical College of Georgia Center for Healthy Aging stress that these factors should be considered in the design and execution of clinical trials and when trial results are analyzed. There are at least 30 clinical trials underway in which vitamin C, alone or in combination with other treatments, is being evaluated against COVID-19.

November 6

A French study has found that regular bolus vitamin D supplementation was associated with less severe COVID-19 and better survival in frail elderly patients. The researchers conclude that vitamin D3 supplementation may represent an effective, accessible and well-tolerated adjuvant treatment for COVID-19, for which there are currently no validated treatments.

“Further large prospective, preferentially interventional studies are needed to confirm whether supplementing older adults regularly with vitamin D3 prevents COVID-19 onset and/or improves COVID-19 outcomes; and whether higher-dose bolus of vitamin D3 given after the diagnosis of COVID-19 is able to improve its prognosis,” they write. 

November 5

Evolva has updated its 2020 financial outlook as COVID-19 has deteriorated the business environment. The pandemic impacted some of Evolva’s contract manufacturing organizations, which are continuing to face delays... Read more

November 4

Overweight and highly-educated people are two groups who were more likely to increase their consumption of unhealthy food during the first COVID-19 lockdown in spring. This is according to a study carried out by Wageningen University & Research (WUR), which analyzed the eating habits of 1,030 people in the Netherlands... Read more

November 3

Royal DSM reports a “solid first nine months in a challenging COVID-19 environment,” with a continuing robust performance in Q3, despite significant adverse foreign exchange effects. According to the company, group sales stable and adjusted EBITDA was down by 3 percent. Nutrition sales increased by 4 percent and organic sales were up 5 percent... Read more

November 2

Experts are once again debating the best ways to avoid vitamin D deficiency following the discovery that over 80 percent of COVID-19 patients in a Spanish hospital were suffering from it... Read more

October 30

COVID-19 has prompted parents to spend more money on immunity products for their children. At the other end of the age spectrum, older people are particularly at risk, which has created new salience for the healthy aging market. Other impacted areas include gut health and harnessing online channels like never before. This was detailed at FrieslandCampina Ingredients (FCI)’s virtual event, which saw a host of topics addressed by interdisciplinary experts... Read more

October 28

A study has investigated how lianhuaqingwen (LHQW), a Traditional Chinese Medicine ingredient, interacts with COVID-19. According to the researchers, the results demonstrated chemical and biochemical evidence for exploring molecular mechanisms of therapeutic effects of LHQW capsules for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. This is based on the components exposed to humans.

October 26

Henry Lamotte Oils says that the world has not yet reached the climax of the pandemic. It flags that interruptions of the global supply chains may occur, and it will not be able to compensate for all potential interruptions in the short-term. However, the Germany-based company confirms that its own supply chains’ fundamental stability is not endangered, although the availability of products and cargo space will continue to fluctuate. 

A global survey of 12,000 people around the world has revealed that the initial phase of the COVID-19 lockdown dramatically altered consumers’ personal habits, largely for the worse. While healthy eating increased due to eating at home more, snacking increased. People also got less exercise and sleep, and anxiety levels doubled. 

“Overall, people with obesity improved their diets the most, but they also experienced the sharpest declines in mental health and the highest incidence of weight gain. One-third of people with obesity gained weight during the lockdown, compared to 20.5 percent of people with normal weight or overweight,” says Leanne Redman, PhD, associate executive director for scientific education at Pennington Biomedical Research Center.

October 19

Following mounting pressure from other MPs, Matt Hancock, the UK’s health minister, has asked scientists to investigate the impact of vitamin D on resistance and immunity. The government will also be increasing the public messaging around vitamin D to make sure that people get the message that “vitamin D can help with broad health and that there is no downside to taking it, and therefore people should consider that.”

CBD appears to reduce the cytokine storm that damages the lungs and kills many patients with COVID-19. This is by enabling an increase in levels of a natural peptide called apelin, which is known to reduce inflammation and whose levels are dramatically reduced in the face of this storm. Researchers from the Dental College of Georgia and Medical College of Georgia have shown that apelin levels are significantly reduced by the viral infection and that CBD quickly helps normalize those levels along with lung function.

October 15

Vitamin Bounty has scrapped its Instagram and Facebook social media posts for its Vitamin Bounty Elderberry Immune Support following an inquiry from the US National Advertising Division (NAD) of BBB National Programs. NAD argued that the posts had conveyed implied messages about boosting immunity to protect users against, or treat, COVID-19. 

Vitamin Bounty’s text had read: “As restrictions are gradually lifting, it’s more important than ever to keep your immune system strong. Our Elderberry Immune Support keeps you protected with vitamin C, zinc, elderberries, garlic and echinacea; a powerful immune-boosting combo.”

In partnership with Stevenson Advocacy, AlchemLife USA has donated US$1.35 million worth of PhytoRelief-CC supplements to Philadelphia’s municipal union workers. According to the company, the immunity-boosting PhytoRelief-CC supplements will help these municipal workers protect their own depleted immune systems during this worldwide health crisis. 

A systematic review and meta-analysis of nine clinical studies has found that the probability that an obese person will develop severe COVID-19 is high regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, and the presence of co-morbidities such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart or lung disease. The authors conclude that obesity is itself a factor that favors rapid progression to critical illness requiring intensive care and significantly increases the risk of death. 

October 13

BioGaia has reported reduced sales due to COVID-19. In most countries, BioGaia’s sales depend on doctors and pharmacists recommending their patients to use its products. Due to the pandemic, BioGaia’s distributors’ sales forces have not been able to visit doctors and pharmacy staff in most markets where BioGaia operates to the same extent as before, the company notes. BioGaia therefore estimates that sales and earnings will be negatively affected both in quarter three and quarter four 2020. 

“The decrease in sales is of course very unfortunate, but we believe that it is related to COVID-19 and that this will not affect our long-term expectations. To reduce the effect on earnings, we are reviewing our costs to partially compensate for the decrease in sales,” says Isabelle Ducellier, CEO of BioGaia AB.

October 12

COVID-19 has shone a light on the impact of long-term inequalities in health. This led 108 experts to sign Sustain’s open letter calling on the UK government to ensure that children can access healthy and nutritious food. The letter details five policy measures to be included in the government’s impending Comprehensive Spending Review… Read more

The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has won the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to combat hunger, its contribution to bettering conditions for peace in conflict-affected areas and acting as a driving force to prevent the use of hunger as a weapon of war and conflict. Berit Reiss-Andersen, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, highlighted how COVID-19 has added to global food insecurity. 

The USDA is extending flexibilities to allow free meals to continue to be available to all children throughout the entire 2020-2021 school year. These include waiving meal pattern requirements as necessary and allowing meals to be served outside of the typically required group settings and meal times.

October 8

A new Kappa Bioscience-funded study review has positioned vitamin K metabolism as the “potential missing link” between lung damage and thromboembolism – two of the most serious outcomes observed in COVID-19 patients... Read more

The COVID-19 pandemic has had both positive and negative impacts on Chr. Hansen’s 2019/2020 financial results, which overall saw 5 percent organic growth with revenues boosted to €1.189 billion (US$1.396 billion). Executive vice president and CFO Søren Lonning speaks to NutritionInsight about moves for infant nutrition, probiotics and “taking a breather” following a string of acquisitions... Read more

October 7

COVID-19 is bolstering demand for nutraceuticals to maintain wellness and ward off mood health difficulties. However, the sector continues to face major challenges in terms of standing out in a saturated market and communicating scientific backing, as told to NutritionInsight by Lonza, Giellepi and Nexira... Read more

October 6

The ongoing pandemic is reshaping supplementation use for specific health issues. With old and new scientific evidence coming to light, Kaneka Pharma is highlighting how its patented Ubiquinol, a direct active form of coenzyme Q10, is moving from sports nutrition and heart health to the immunity sector... Read more

October 5

The nutrition industry is bracing for the effects of a second COVID-19 wave as many countries are witnessing a resurgence in cases. NutritionInsight speaks with key companies about how consumer demands have evolved since the virus first reared its head, and what lessons can be learned from the earlier stages of the outbreak... Read more

October 2

Vitamin D is in the spotlight as UK’s health minister, Matt Hancock, looks to hear about “all possible scientific advances that might be helpful” in the fight against COVID-19. This comes in light of new evidence pointing to the vitamin’s efficacy, which is in contrast to previous government-backed reviews... Read more

October 1

A quarter of nutrition professionals have lost work during the pandemic. This could have an impact on fighting obesity, which has been repeatedly connected to more severe outcomes in patients with COVID-19. The research undertaken by UK-based Nutrition Talent, a specialist nutrition recruitment agency and consultancy, also reveals that of people whose role has continued, 48 percent have seen an increased workload... Read more

September 30

The percentage of US consumers taking dietary supplements has slightly decreased from 77 percent last year to 73 percent this year. This is according to an annual survey from the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), which found that shifts in supplement intake may be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic... Read more

Nasal calcium-rich salts called FEND may be an effective way of eliminating airborne particles from airways. Sensory Cloud, the creator of FEND, studied the effectiveness of nasal administration of physiological salts at reducing airborne particles from exhaled breath, including the sub-micron aerosolized particles that are ineffectively filtered by cloth face masks. They found that FEND adds to the efficacy of masks at reducing the penetration of respiratory droplets into the lungs or back into the environment and provides an added layer of defense for when mask-wearing is not a possibility.

September 28

A study from the Boston University School of Medicine found that in comparison with vitamin D- deficient patients, vitamin D-sufficient hospitalized COVID-19 patients had a significant decreased risk for adverse clinical outcomes, including unconsciousness, hypoxia (body starved for oxygen) and death. Moreover, the patients had lower blood levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker, and higher blood levels of lymphocytes, a type of immune cell to help fight infection. The study authors view sufficient vitamin D intake as a cost-effective strategy to reduce the severity of morbidities and mortality associated with acquiring COVID-19.  

UK adults and children have reported feeling healthier since national lockdown restrictions that began in March have eased. According to a British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) survey, over half (56 percent) of elementary school students and exactly half (50 percent) of secondary school students surveyed say that they are more active now that they are back at school. Meanwhile, nearly half (46 percent) of adults and 43 percent of secondary school students say that they have consumed more chocolate when feeling tired, stressed, bored or anxious throughout the pandemic outbreak. The BNF advocates for more family-oriented nutrition and physical exercise activities while bearing in mind current measures to control the spread of COVID-19.

September 25

Hofseth BioCare (HBC) has entered the first part of its accelerated phase 2 trial of CARDIO soft gels for the treatment of patients with COVID-19 respiratory symptoms. A “virtual trial” has been launched in major cities across Ontario, Canada, which allows for a broader trial to include patients who are currently self-isolating. The trial will be conducted for HBC by the clinical research organization KGK. The virtual platform allows KGK to interact one-on-one with each patient from the safety of their homes. 

September 23

A lower level of zinc in the blood is associated with a poorer outcome in patients with COVID-19, according to new research presented at ESCMID Conference on Coronavirus Disease. Increased intracellular zinc concentrations efficiently impair replication and reproduction of a number of viruses. However, the effect of plasma zinc levels on SARS-COV-2 is not yet fully understood. In this study, the authors explored whether plasma zinc levels at admission are associated with disease outcome in COVID-19 patients.

September 22

More than two-thirds of Kenyans and Ugandans have experienced economic hardship due to the pandemic. This is according to a Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI) survey, which investigated COVID-19’s impact on food insecurity. Of 442 respondents, the proportion of food insecure people increased by 38 percent and 44 percent in Kenya and Uganda, respectively. The regular consumption of fruits also decreased by around 30 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic in comparison to before the crisis struck.

(Source: CABI)The USDA has extended over a dozen flexibilities ensuring participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) continue receiving the food and health support they need during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of expiring this month, the WIC wavers will be extended to apply to  a variety of situations, including the remote issuance of benefits to any participants as well as additional options for the pick-up of food packages. 

September 21

The US FDA is providing extra flexibility for food manufacturers with less than US$10 million in annual food sales who need to comply with updated Nutrition and Supplement Facts label requirements by January 1, 2021. The FDA has heard from some manufacturers that more time may be needed to meet all of the requirements, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, it will not focus on enforcement actions during 2021, although the compliance date will remain in place. 

September 16

COVID-19’s impact on infant nutrition has been flagged by Pacify Health, a US lactation support and pediatric telehealth app. The company’s recent survey revealed that 60 percent of new mothers feel that the pandemic is making it harder to breastfeed. In its survey of 1,000 new and expecting mothers, the company also found that Black or Hispanic mothers were 57 percent more likely to report that COVID-19 has or would make it harder to breastfeed compared to white mothers. Additionally, 70 percent of mothers covered by Medicaid said that COVID-19 will affect their ability to breastfeed, compared to 43 percent of mothers covered by private insurance.

According to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the pandemic is aggravating pre-existing drivers of acute food insecurity. The Democratic Republic of Congo and Burkina Faso have been especially hard hit in recent months. FAO’s director-general, Qu Dongyu, says it is critical to work together before the situation deteriorates and to focus on prevention, early warning systems and actions.

September 15

Bifidobacteria and selenium have both come under the spotlight in the fight against COVID-19. According to a Russia-based geneticist, the FN3 surface protein found on B. longum blocks or binds some types of cytokines, thus stopping excessive or uncontrollable inflammation. Meanwhile, a new review lays out a three-pronged approach for using selenium to help combat COVID-19 fatalities... Read more

September 8

The vitamin D conversation has been reignited with a new JAMA investigation looking at the association between vitamin status and COVID-19 test results. Of 489 patients who had a vitamin D level measured in the year before COVID-19 testing, the relative risk of testing positive for COVID-19 was 1.77 times greater for patients with likely deficient vitamin D status than patients with likely sufficient vitamin D status, a statistically significant difference. The researchers are now calling for randomized clinical trials to determine whether interventions on the broad population and among groups at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 could reduce COVID-19 incidence. 

Lief Cares Donation Program is providing 2,500 bottles of nutritional vitamin C supplements to hundreds of Southern California-based field workers in impoverished areas as a show of commitment and support for this vital workforce. The supplements from Lief Labs will be distributed over the next six weeks by Feeding Our Farmworkers.

September 4

Obesity may cause a hyperactive immune system response to COVID-19 infection that makes it difficult to fight off the virus, according to a new manuscript published in the Endocrine Society’s journal, Endocrinology. Obesity causes a chronic, low-grade activation of some parts of the immune system. When a patient with this preexisting condition is faced with an infection, this could lead to hyper-activation of the immune system, which harms itself instead of fighting the infection.

September 3

Using AI, Nuritas has discovered natural rice-based peptides that impact inflammation and improve physical test results in an elderly population. “It is well known that chronic inflammation is heavily implicated to impaired immune response. While this was out of scope of this first trial it is certainly a very interesting avenue for future exploration in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic,” says Dr. Nora Khaldi, CEO, Founder and Acting CSO at Nuritas... Read more

Weller has unveiled Sparkling Immunity, a carbonated water featuring elderberry to deliver essential vitamins and minerals. The company states that the launch was motivated by increased consumer interest in immune-boosting products due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Moving beyond the cold and flu aisle and a reactive health mindset, the sparkling water provides a convenient way to integrate immunity protection into a daily routine, it details… Read more

September 2

Organic fucoidan supplier Marinova is highlighting a study that reveals highly purified fucoidan compounds bind tightly to the S-protein of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro, suggesting that they can play a role in inhibiting viral infection. Researchers went on to note that fucoidan shows promising antiviral activity in vitro and low cytotoxicity, suggesting that they may have promising clinical use.

“Marinova is continuing its own COVID-19 investigations and currently has further Maritech fucoidan samples being independently analyzed, both for their antiviral activity and also for their ability to lessen the damage caused by infection. We now know that oral fucoidan attenuates lung damage in an acute viral influenza model, and we also have evidence supporting the modulation of immune function. We are hopeful that these beneficial effects will be transferable to other viral conditions,” says Marinova’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Helen Fitton.

August 28

A review of studies has revealed that from COVID-19 risk to recovery, the odds are stacked against those with obesity. Researchers examined the available published literature on individuals infected with the virus and found that those with obesity were at a greatly increased risk for hospitalization (113 percent), more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit (74 percent) and had a higher risk of death (48 percent) from the virus.The researchers note that obesity needs to be considered as a modifying factor in light of vaccine testing.

August 26

Evolva’s half-year 2020 results reveal a record order intake of CHF6.2 million (US$6.8 million) driven by the Health Ingredients sector. However, only CHF3.8 million (US$4.2 million) could be realized due to COVID-19-related delays at contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs). The company has also faced other pandemic headwinds, flagging stagnating customer demand in Flavors and Fragrances (F&F). Overall, the company anticipates cash outflows to be above the 2019 level, part of which will be related to a scale-up of production capacities and a major product launch... Read more

Three scientists argue that COVID-19 human milk studies should continue without stopping breastfeeding, and be conducted with a lens of racial equity and reproductive justice. “When we see that there are racial and ethnic disparities in breastfeeding outcomes as a result of COVID-19, we need to recognize that structural racism affects everything in pandemics from bench science to bedside practice,” says Aunchalee Palmquist, a medical anthropologist and assistant professor at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

The pandemic is having a profound, negative impact on nine out of ten people with experience of eating disorders, according to a new study from Northumbria University, UK. The results suggest that disruptions to daily life as a result of lockdown and social distancing may have a detrimental impact on an individual's wellbeing, with 87 percent of participants reporting that their symptoms had worsened as a result of the pandemic. Over 30 percent stated that their symptoms were much worse.

August 25

In its FY20 results, a2 Milk Company (a2MC) revealed that COVID-19 had a modest positive impact on revenue and earnings for the year. “Our revenue in the third quarter was well above expectations due to the impact of changes in consumer purchase behavior arising from the COVID-19 situation. This included an increase in pantry stocking particularly via online and reseller channels,” the company states... Read more

August 21

Scientists from institutes including Amsterdam’s University Medical Center (UMC) have discovered that the breast milk of women who have had COVID-19 contains antibodies against the coronavirus. The antibodies were present even after pasteurizing the milk. The researchers will now investigate whether the milk could be used to prevent future infections during a possible second wave.

It is unlikely that COVID-19 can be transmitted through breast milk, according to a study from University of California San Diego School of Medicine and University of California Los Angeles. The researchers examined 64 samples of breast milk collected from 18 US women who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2. Although one sample tested positive for viral RNA, subsequent tests found that the virus was unable to replicate, and thus unable to cause infection in the breastfed infant.

August 20

Expert bodies are expressing alarm over a series of US media reports that US President Donald Trump could be eyeing oleandrin in connection to COVID-19. Oleandrin is a phytochemical found in the poisonous plant oleander and may prove “highly toxic, dangerous and life-threatening when ingested.” American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) and the American Botanical Council (ABC) have both released statements urging the public not to consume the phytochemical to address COVID-19... Read more

August 19

In a move to protect against “external threats to the UK’s health” in light of COVID-19, Public Health England (PHE) will be scrapped and replaced by the National Institute for Health Protection. This announcement from Matt Hancock, UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, has been met with disbelief by many members of the nutrition sector. They note the poor timing of this announcement, while conditions like obesity – a major risk factor for COVID-19 – are feared to be sidelined... Read more

August 18

While COVID-19 has created newfound consumer interest in immunity, it has also created a knock-on effect in the gut health arena. The pandemic is also behind Vitafoods Europe’s move to a virtual expo this year (September 7-11). Ahead of the event, NutritionInsight speaks to a selection of this year’s exhibitors who elaborate on the increasingly holistic digestive space, as well as the importance of healthy aging... Read more

The Organic & Natural Health Association is launching a “Get On My Level” educational campaign to highlight the health benefits of vitamin D. The association states that vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for COVID-19. In light of the vast health disparities reported in COVID-19 for obese people and multiple Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, the association is also encouraging people in communities most at risk to know their vitamin D level by either asking their doctor or measuring and monitoring their own levels at home using a test kit and vitamin D calculator from its research partner, GrassrootsHealth.

“I’m urgently calling upon my medical colleagues to not withhold or distort this valuable information so that we can change the trajectory of health for families, especially in Black and Latino communities where the need is the greatest during this upcoming and complicated flu season. Vitamin D supplementation is the most direct, cost-effective and practical way to improve everyone’s vitamin D level, without any racial barriers,” states Dr. Ken Redcross, Scientific Advisor for Organic & Natural Health.

August 17

A letter published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics lays out the potential role of probiotics in the fight against COVID-19. The authors note that while probiotics may be potentially helpful in the treatment of patients with severe COVID-19, there is a lack of evidence to demonstrate the effect of probiotics directly inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection.

“Although Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium decreased in some patients with COVID-‐19, the choice and effect of probiotics require further study. We do not recommend probiotics for routine treatment of COVID-19 as most patients were mild and asymptomatic, and dysbiosis of the intestinal flora was self-limiting in most cases. We do believe that it would be worthwhile to evaluate probiotics in critically ill COVID-19 patients,” the authors write. 

Hochdorf’s 2020 interim results have revealed that panic buying at the start of the pandemic resulted in an increase in sales and revenue for infant nutrition company Bimbosan AG. The effect was, however, rebalanced in the following months. The pandemic also caused slight delays in the company’s internationalization process setbacks in market registration for China. Overall, Hochdorf’s baby care division achieved net sales revenue of CHF 37.6 million (US$41.4 million), marking 24 percent growth from the previous year. 

Marinova states that in the global race to carve out the “new normal,” all businesses have the opportunity to reevaluate their professional ethics. With ethics thrust into the spotlight, the company notes that it will become increasingly important for brands to remain true to their core values and beliefs. It highlights its commitment to innovative green chemistry and sustainable harvesting practices.

“Millennials are a significant global purchasing force. As a cohort, they are more socially engaged than their predecessors and also far more digitally savvy. They expect transparency and are becoming more and more determined to deal with brands that stand for integrity, environmental sustainability and social responsibility. We can only expect to see this grow in the future,” notes Amanda Mackinnon, Marinova’s Marketing & Communication Manager.

August 13

Isabelle Ducellier, BioGaia’s CEO, details how the Swedish company has fared throughout the pandemic. BioGaia’s Q2 2020 results reveal that net sales amounted to SEK 244.7 million (US$23.8 million), an increase of 10 percent. Profit after tax was SEK 79.0 million (US$7.7 million), an increase of 29 percent. 

“Regardless of how the pandemic develops in the future, the situation will require us to continually adapt during the year to counteract the challenges it entails. We are convinced that our products fulfill a key function particularly in these times and we are doing everything we can to ensure that possible negative effects of the pandemic on our business remain limited,” says Ducellier.

The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has revealed that there was a significant increase in food bank usage between May and June, remaining consistent in July. As in previous waves, foodbank usage remained higher for younger people, households with children (and larger households), those with a physical or mental health condition and those who were self-isolating or had COVID-19 symptoms. 

“Our research shows that our food habits changed rapidly in lockdown and that food insecurity has become an issue for many people. These findings have implications for many aspects of government policy, such as food safety, nutrition, welfare, health and education,” says Emily Miles, FSA’s Chief Executive. 

August 12

A team of Australian medical researchers has found that in human milk, pasteurization inactivates the virus that causes COVID-19, confirming milk bank processes have been safe throughout the pandemic and will remain safe going forward, too. The study was a partnership between UNSW and a multidisciplinary team from Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Milk. 

“While there is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted through breast milk, there is always a theoretical risk. We’ve seen in previous pandemics that pasteurized donor human milk supplies may be interrupted because of safety considerations, so that's why we wanted to show that PDHM remains safe,” says Greg Walker, lead author and PhD candidate in Professor Bill Rawlinson’s group at UNSW Medicine.

A study examining UK adults has confirmed that overall and central obesity are risk factors for COVID-19 hospital admission. Elevated risk was apparent even at modest weight gain. The researchers note that over two-thirds of Westernized society are overweight or obese, this potentially presents a major risk factor for severe COVID-19 infection and may have implications for policy. The mechanisms may involve impaired glucose and lipid metabolism.

After preliminary observations of 200 COVID-19 patients with severe hyperglycemia, a Michigan Medicine (University of Michigan) team is shedding light in a new American Diabetes Association paper about why high blood sugar may trigger worse outcomes in people infected with the virus. Researchers have developed a blood sugar management tool that may reduce the risk of secondary infections, kidney issues and intensive care stays in people with diabetes, prediabetes or obesity who get COVID-19.

“Based on preliminary observations of our patients, those with one of these pre-existing conditions are at high risk for making the virus-induced respiratory dysfunction much worse, potentially resulting in death,” says first author Dr. Roma Gianchandani, a professor of internal medicine in the Michigan Medicine division of metabolism, endocrinology and diabetes.

August 7

Chlorella is pegged as a healthy, natural and sustainable superfood, which is in-demand during the COVID-19 period thanks to its immune-boosting properties. NutritionInsight speaks to producer Allmicroalgae about the plant’s potential in elevating nutrient-dense supplements, foods and beverages. The Portuguese company has developed novel microalgae biomass produced by fermentation, which ensures a consistent and desirable flavor and color of the product... Read more

August 6

The Brighton and Hove Food Partnership (BHFP) is supporting UK residents to eat enough vegetables via emergency food parcels and signposting advice, “during COVID-19 and beyond.” The alliance coordinated a central food processing hub where purchased and donated food was collected and packaged into individual food parcels, hot meals or food for meal preparation. Over 3,200 adults and 1,300 children in the Brighton and Hove regions have received a food parcel that includes vegetables each week. Meanwhile, 2,385 people have received a hot meal with vegetables from eight community organizations and lunch clubs.

The USDA’s Risk Management Agency will authorize Approved Insurance Providers to extend deadlines for premium and administrative fee payments. It will also defer the resulting interest accrual and allow other flexibilities to help farmers, ranchers and insurance providers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “To help ease the burden on farmers, we are continuing to extend flexibility for producers. The flexibilities support health and safety while also ensuring the federal crop insurance program continues to serve as a vital risk management tool,” says US Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue.

August 5

General Mills’ cereal brand Cheerios has donated US$1.3 million to No Kid Hungry, a national campaign focused on ending childhood hunger. The move is inspired by the fact that one in four US children are potentially facing hunger this year due to the coronavirus crisis, the company notes.

US natural F&B producer The Wonderful Company has established a new US$1 million relief fund program to support nonprofit organizations and schools in California’s Central Valley. The fund prioritizes local programs, services and resources that were impacted by COVID-19, either by state and federal budget cuts or in direct response to new critical needs. Submissions are now open for COVID-19 relief grants ranging from US$1,000–US$5,000 until funds are exhausted, plus up to four US$100,000 grants, awarded to be used over two years. 

August 3

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is urging the US Congress to strongly support the Pandemic Child Hunger Prevention Act that provides a nutritious breakfast and lunch this coming school year for all children. If enacted, this bill would provide free meals to students regardless of their family’s income and also let schools operating summer feeding and afterschool programs to serve all children without having to certify the eligibility of each individual child. As the pandemic drags on, more children are likely to qualify, creating a significant administrative burden for schools as eligibility fluctuates with the economic downturns. Therefore, this bill would “significantly ease the administrative burden” of verifying which children are eligible for the program, the CSPI underscores. 

Two new tests will be rolled out across NHS hospitals, care homes and labs from next week to increase testing capacity ahead of the winter. The first, 450,000 LamPORE swab tests will be available across adult care settings and laboratories from next week, supplied by Oxford Nanopore. Separately, a new test that uses DNA to detect the virus will be rolled out across NHS hospitals from September. Supplied by DnaNudge, 5,000 DNA machines will provide 5.8 million of these tests in the coming months. Both tests will be able to detect COVID-19 and other winter viruses, such as flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), in just 90 minutes. Moreover, the tests do not require a trained health professional to operate them, meaning they can be rolled out in more non-clinical settings. The UK government states that these efforts will help to “break chains of transmission quickly.”

Sanofi and GSK advanced discussions with the European Commission to supply up to 300 million doses of a pending COVID-19 vaccine. Developed in this joint partnership, the vaccine candidate is based on the recombinant protein-based technology used by Sanofi to produce an influenza vaccine and GSK’s established adjuvant technology. Sanofi is leading the clinical development and registration of the COVID-19 vaccine and expects a Phase 1-2 study to start in September, followed by a Phase 3 study by the end of 2020. “If data are positive, regulatory approval could be achieved by the first half of 2021,” GSK underscores.

July 30

Smaller businesses in the UK are set to benefit from £20 million (US$26 million) of new government funding to help them recover from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Small- and medium-sized businesses will have access to grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 (US$1,300 and US$6,500 ) to help them access new technology and other equipment as well as professional, legal and financial advice. The move comes on top of an unprecedented package of government support to help businesses to recover, including the £2 billion (US$2.6 billion) Kickstart Scheme that will create hundreds of thousands of new, fully subsidized jobs for young people across the country.

In a JAMA published study, a US population-based time series analysis conducted between March 9 and May 7, 2020 found a temporal association between statewide school closure and lower COVID-19 incidence and mortality. In a model derived from this analysis, it was estimated that closing schools when the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 was in the lowest quartile compared with the highest quartile was associated with 128 fewer cases per 100,000 population over 26 days and with 1.5 fewer deaths per 100,000 population over 16 days. However, some of the reductions may have been related to other concurrent nonpharmaceutical interventions, the researchers flag.

July 29 

Sanofi and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) have reached an agreement, subject to final contract, with the UK government for the supply of up to 60 million doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, when it becomes available. The jointly developed vaccine candidate is based on the recombinant protein-based technology used by Sanofi to produce an influenza vaccine and GSK’s established pandemic adjuvant technology. “With our partner GSK, we are pleased to cooperate with the UK government as well as several other countries and global organizations as part of our ongoing efforts to develop a safe and effective vaccine and make it available as quickly as possible. We greatly appreciate the UK government’s support of this shared vision,” says Thomas Triomphe, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Sanofi Pasteur.

The UK Department of Health and Social Care has revealed a raft of measures as part of its anti-obesity strategy to tackle COVID-19. Among the measures are a ban on junk food advertising, restrictions on high fat, sugar and salt promotions and a push to embrace healthier lifestyles. The link between obesity and worse COVID-19 outcomes has been flagged by Public Health England (PHE); however, Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted his own weight has a bearing and declared a “war on obesity” after he spent time in an intensive care unit (ICU) fighting the virus earlier this year. The government hopes this campaign will encourage those currently overweight to lose 2.5 kg, claiming it “could save the NHS £105 million (US$135 million) over the next five years and improve people’s lives and overall well-being.” So far, there have been mixed reactions from several UK think tanks… Read More

July 27

The COVID-19 Law Lab initiative has been launched to gather and share legal documents from over 190 countries across the world to help states establish and implement strong legal frameworks to manage the pandemic. The goal is to ensure that laws protect the health and well being of individuals and communities and that they adhere to international human rights standards. The initiative includes state of emergency declarations, quarantine measures, disease surveillance, legal measures relating to mask-wearing, social distancing and access to medication and vaccines. This joint project arrives as a collaboration between the UN Development Program, the WHO, the Joint UN Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University, US.

US Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the USDA will launch a third round of Farmers to Families Food Box Program purchases. Its distributions will take place from September 1 to October 31, 2020. The purchases will spend the balance of US$3 billion authorized for the program. So far, over 46 million Farmers to Families Food Boxes have been invoiced and delivered. “This third round of Farmers to Families Food Box Program is a testament that the program is accomplishing what we intended – supporting US farmers and distributors and getting food to those who need it most. It’s a real trifecta, which is why we call it a win-win-win,” explains Secretary Perdue. 

In similar strides, Convoy of Hope has delivered more than 50 million meals in more than 46 US states in response to the pandemic. The organization’s initial goal of 10 million meals was surpassed “in a matter of weeks,” says Hal Donaldson, President of Convoy of Hope. 

July 23

The Natural Products Association (NPA) is pushing the US Congress to include tax credits for natural products businesses facing steep reopening costs. A new survey reveals that NPA members project spending an annual average of US$13,595 – with some expected to spend as much as US$200,000 – on COVID-19-related priorities, including testing, personal protective equipment and workplace changes to accommodate social distancing. Some companies indicated they were bracing for significant costs but were unable to calculate them due to the uncertainties of state-level government decisions on reopening.

“As Americans have turned to nutritional supplements to support their health and immune systems in this crisis, natural products businesses have truly been a lifeline. The downside is that this has come at great cost, and this survey reflects that. It is vital that Congress include targeted tax credits for natural products businesses so they can continue to serve the American people and keep their doors open. We checked with our members on what they need most from the next stimulus package, and this was the number one priority,” says Daniel Fabricant, President and CEO of NPA.

Catalent North America’s Region president, Mike Riley, is set to discuss the challenges associated with scaling up manufacturing during the pandemic. These include the need to condense vaccine development and clinical trial timelines, and establishing a global supply network that is capable of potentially delivering billions of doses worldwide. This is part of the upcoming Disease Prevention & Control Summit, taking place virtually on July 28-29, 2020.

July 22

Food fortification is “one of the safest, most effective and affordable ways” to help consumers meet recommended daily intakes of micronutrients. This is particularly critical as the pandemic is changing people’s consumption patterns and their focus on health issues. NutritionInsight speaks with experts from SternVitamin, Dr. Paul Lohmann, DSM Nutritional Products and IFF Health on regional differences in consumer demand, the risks and challenges of fortifying foods and in what direction this trend is headed... Read more

The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is reminding companies of the rules around responsible marketing. Ads for F&B products cannot reference COVID-19 or coronavirus, either implicitly or explicitly. Implicit examples include phrases such as “use our product in these difficult times” or “#lockdownhealth.” Additionally, advertisers should be careful when referencing health benefits relating to the immune system. ASA recommends that companies do not refer to “boosting”, “strengthening”, “stimulating” or “optimizing” immune function, but rather use the word “normal.”

US-based manufacturer of dietary supplements Lief Labs is supporting Vitamin Angels’ Healthy Futures Initiative, a unified effort to address the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on vulnerable communities in the US and around the world. The initiative seeks to raise US$500,000 to address the increased global demand for health services caused by COVID-19. The funds will be used to scale-up Vitamin Angels’ vitamin A and prenatal multiple micronutrient programs, as well as expand training materials and digital tools to train more service providers.

July 20

Beneo is preparing for the rise of health-conscious consumers to continue in the wake of COVID-19, predicting that this will play a key role in future product development. Jon Peters, President of Beneo Inc., tells NutritionInsight how manufacturers are set to find new ways to strengthen existing products and tap into the rising demand for health and naturality. This follows the company’s attendance at SHIFT20, where its virtual stand revolved around the theme “Healthier Carbs, Healthier Living.”... Read more

Italian researchers have assessed how the national lockdown affected eating habits and psychological aspects from April 24 to May 18. A high percentage of respondents experienced a depressed mood, anxious feelings, hypochondria and insomnia. Meanwhile, nearly half of respondents felt anxious about their eating habits, consumed comfort food and were inclined to increase food intake to feel better. This was stronger in women, who also increased their intake of supplements significantly more than men. Additionally, the younger population with lower Body Mass Index suffered less in terms of an increase in food control and a decrease in food intake. 

July 17

Silibinin sourced from Euromed SA’s milk thistle extract and cannabidiol (CBD) are the latest ingredients to come under the microscope in the fight against the COVID-19 crisis. Silibinin, a key component of flavonoid silymarin, will be used in a clinical trial called SilCOVID19 for oncohematological patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Meanwhile, US researchers have early evidence that CBD may help reduce the cytokine storm and excessive lung inflammation that is killing many patients with COVID-19. Notably, they used a new model that could also open the door for further safe research of the novel coronavirus... Read more

July 16

A group of researchers are encouraging other scientists studying aging, metabolism and immunity to turn their attention to ketone bodies, which are being widely studied for their roles in aging and related diseases. The research team views ketone bodies as a possible therapeutic against COVID-19, seasonal flu and other respiratory infections. The production of the primary ketone beta-hydroxybutyrate acid (BHB) can be ramped up by eating the increasingly popular ketogenic diet. 

“I want to be clear that there is no evidence that a ketogenic diet is protective in any way against COVID-19. In fact, there may be instances where BHB could promote viral replication of SARS-CoV-2. However, given the promise that BHB shows against many of the age-related risk factors for COVID-19 such as heart disease and diabetes, we want to take advantage of this unique opportunity to bring geroscience to the fight against COVID-19,” says Dr. John Newman, senior author of the review.

July 15

NP Nutra has reported strong sales growths in the first half of 2020. Sales increased by almost 20 percent year-over-year, which the company says is a sign of the strength of the nutraceuticals industry in COVID-19 times, as consumers put emphasis on healthy nutrition and the increased use of supplements. During the pandemic, the company has boosted its inventory and ensured the safety of its supply chain. 

July 14

Global hunger rates are on the rise, despite the UN’s aim to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) by 2030. This is the primary concern raised in the annual State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report published this week. The Ceres2030: Sustainable Solutions to End Hunger project used data from the UN report to highlight that an additional US$10 billion is urgently needed to prevent millions more people becoming food insecure due to the COVID-19 pandemic... Read more

A diverse coalition of civil rights, child welfare and health organizations is calling on the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to protect children from junk food marketing on online learning platforms. The COVID-19 pandemic led most school children to spend more time on such platforms, exposing them to such stimuli. McDonald’s, Kraft Heinz and Kellogg have now committed to temporarily cease advertising on such platforms after the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) and other health advocates separately raised concerns over ads for Honey Nut Frosted Flakes, Lunchables and Happy Meals on the online learning platform ABCya... Read more

The US FDA is preparing to resume domestic inspections using a new risk assessment system, following the pausing of on-site surveillance inspections in March. The COVID-19 Advisory Rating system (COVID-19 Advisory Level) will help to determine when and where it is safest to conduct prioritized domestic inspections. It qualitatively assesses the number of COVID-19 cases in a local area based on real-time state and national data. The Advisory Level will be based on Phase of State, as well as the trend and intensity of infection. On-site inspections are currently set to resume during the week of July 20, but this will depend on data surrounding the virus’s trajectory. 

Researchers have reviewed the results of studies on the use of zinc-containing drugs for increasing immunity and preventing viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2. The results were published in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine. Previous studies showed that zinc and its binding substances can slow down the work of RNA polymerase (an enzyme that synthesises viral RNA molecules) of coronaviruses and suppress their spread in the body. One of the substances that stimulate the cellular zinc uptake, chloroquine, has already been tested on patients with SARS-CoV-2, but its strong side effects make it necessary to look for other compounds with a similar effect or use zinc separately. However, both options have not been sufficiently studied or tested yet.

An investigation from Wuhan, China, has shown that abnormally high blood sugar is associated with more than double the risk of death and also an increased risk of severe complications, in patients with COVID-19, but without a previous diagnosis of diabetes. Previous studies have established that hyperglycaemia (abnormally high blood sugar) is associated with an elevated risk of mortality in community-acquired pneumonia, stroke, heart attacks, trauma and surgery, among other conditions. A number of studies have also shown links between diabetes and poor outcomes in COVID-19 patients. However, direct correlation between fasting blood glucose level at admission to hospital and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients without diagnosed diabetes has not been well established.

July 13

Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of French people are paying more attention to their health since COVID-19 hit Europe. This is according to a survey from Synadiet, a professional body representing over 90 percent of food supplement professionals in France. Meanwhile, research from FederSalus, an Italian association of health product manufacturers, reveals that while many companies were positively affected in March, this had already turned into a negative impact by April... Read more

July 10

SARS-CoV-2 can be inactivated in breast milk using a common pasteurizing technique, according to new research. While current advice is for women with COVID-19 to continue to breastfeed their own infants, it is standard care in Canada to provide pasteurized breast milk to very-low-birth-weight babies in hospital until their own mother’s milk supply is adequate. More than 650 human breast milk banks around the world already use the Holder method, which also neutralizes viruses such as HIV and hepatitis, to ensure a safe supply of milk for vulnerable infants.

“In the event that a woman who is COVID-19-positive donates human milk that contains SARS-CoV-2, whether by transmission through the mammary gland or by contamination through respiratory droplets, skin, breast pumps and milk containers, this method of pasteurization renders milk safe for consumption,” writes Dr. Sharon Unger, a neonatologist at Sinai Health and Professor at the University of Toronto. 

As pressure mounts for concrete action against obesity – which has been linked to worse COVID-19 outcomes – the UK government is being called on to create a “joined-up” National Food Strategy. This follows reports from The Times that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson may ban supermarket promotions of unhealthy food as the first step of his so-called “war on obesity.” However, the Department of Health & Social Care tells NutritionInsight that these reports are speculation and that any changes will be announced in due course... Read more

July 9

The 2020 Dietary Supplements Regulatory Summit, originally set for May 27, will now take place as a virtual event on September 16. The summit will feature updates and insights from FDA officials, including the Office of Dietary Supplement Programs, and industry experts, with a focus on dietary supplement regulatory compliance. The industry-wide educational event is designed for manufacturers, marketers and distributors of dietary supplements and ingredients, along with others in the supply chain, such as testing labs, and related service providers, including legal and marketing firms.

The UK government has announced the “Eat Out To Help Out” scheme to encourage the public to eat in restaurants and cafés as the country reopens its foodservice sector. However, some experts flag that health is being neglected, especially as diners will be given a discount on soft drinks, which may work against the soft drink industry levy. 

“At a time when the links between health, well-being and health outcomes has never been clearer, it is disappointing that this scheme to promote the hospitality sector couldn’t have taken a more joined up approach. We know that food consumed outside of the home is generally less healthy and higher in fat, salt and sugar. I don’t think it is a largely positive health move for everyone. We need a food strategy which addresses inequalities, takes into account the wider issue around food insecurity and the importance of a healthy diet on health outcomes,” comments Amelia Lake, Professor in Public Health Nutrition at Teesside University.

July 6

The COVID-19 fog has not yet lifted, however the many industries affected by the lockdowns, including the beauty-from-within segment, are attempting to forecast its potential ramifications on the economy. Despite e-commerce reportedly experiencing a significant rise, a drop in sales numbers has also been noted. On the other hand, increased interest in supplements is also boosting the beauty supplements sphere, which has historically been dubbed “recession proof.” Lubrizol Life Science, Evolva, Mibelle and Lycored weigh in... Read more

A letter asking the UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to take urgent action to tackle malnutrition in older people following the pandemic has been signed by over 120 prominent figures from academia, local government and community organisations working in health, aging and food. The letter details how COVID-19 is exacerbating malnourishment in individuals over 65, of whom ten percent were already malnourished prior to the pandemic. With the rising potential of a second spike in cases, it is paramount that the government takes urgent action to ensure these older people have access to good food and health in their own homes, argues non-profit Sustain, which is one of the signatories. 

July 2

The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) is requesting that adequate federal funding be included in a fourth COVID-19 relief package to ensure the financial viability and continued operations of the US Postal Service (USPS). In a letter sent to Congressional leaders in the US House and Senate, the AHPA President argues that the health of the USPS is important to the wellbeing of millions of consumers who rely on it for delivery of vital goods and services. Mail delivery has become even more critical as the nation continues to work its way through this unsettled period, where access to stores and services has been limited in many parts of the country, details the letter. 

The UN World Food Program head, David Beasley, states that food is the best vaccine against chaos. Beasley says that new estimates show that 270 million people face food insecurity “before the year’s end,” which marks an 82 percent increase from before the pandemic took hold. He adds that COVID-19 is affecting regions of the world that had “previously escaped” severe food insecurity. Latin American countries are experiencing the worst effects of the health crisis, with an almost three-fold rise in the number of people requiring food assistance. Latin American countries are experiencing the worst effects of the health crisis, with an almost three-fold rise in the number of people requiring food assistance. Hunger spikes are also happening in West and Central Africa, which has seen a 135 percent jump in the number of food insecure people, as well as in Southern Africa where there has been a 90 percent rise.

July 1

The dialogue around a potential post-pandemic society should be considered in separate stages of a “recovery” phase versus a “new normal.” This is according to Leslie Lannebere, Global Marketing Manager of Nutritional & Functional Ingredients at Naturex (part of Givaudan), who speaks to NutritionInsight about how the company is navigating its business through COVID-19. Despite uncertainty around the globe, Naturex has been busy with R&D as it sees the demand for botanical ingredients rise... Read more

June 30

Three separate reviews from UK health authorities have investigated the connection between vitamin D and respiratory illness in light of COVID-19. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)’s appraisal of five published studies concludes that there is no evidence to support taking vitamin D supplements to prevent or treat COVID‑19 specifically. This is in line with Public Health England (PHE)’s researchers stating that at this time, the evidence does not support recommending vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) in the general UK population. However, the Royal Society notes that more research is required to test the possibility that vitamin D deficiency predisposes to COVID-19... Read more

June 29

Investors are calling on UK supermarket chain Tesco to disclose the proportion of its sales made up of healthy food and drink products and set ambitious targets to increase these over time. ShareAction, touted as a responsible investment NGO, is leading these demands, joined by EQ Investors and Nest, which is a Tesco shareholder. This comes as links between obesity and worsened COVID-19 outcomes are elucidated, with pressure mounting on industry to aid reformulation... Read more

June 26

COVID-19 is “adding one more layer of misery upon many others” in Yemen, which is currently experiencing the world’s worst humanitarian disaster, according to the UN. By the end of this year, the number of malnourished children in the country could reach 2.4 million, which is almost half of all under-fives. An additional 30,000 children could develop life-threatening severe acute malnutrition over the next six months. The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warns that unless US$54.5 million is received for health and nutrition services by the end of August, more than 23,000 children with severe acute malnutrition will be at increased risk of dying. 

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is loosening some of its nation-wide regulations so that schools can adapt the way they feed children this fall. These changes include rules around meal patterns, group-setting requirements, meal service times, and parent or guardian pick-up of meals for kids. Another waived requirement is high schools needing to provide students the option to select some of the foods offered in a meal, with USDA saying social distancing will make this difficult. The USDA was also introducing flexibilities prior to the pandemic, which groups denounced as “aiming a flamethrower at school nutrition.”

June 25

Health and wellness brand GNC has filed a voluntary petition for a Chapter 11 bankruptcy case. Having been under financial pressure for several years, US-based GNC suffered a further “dramatic negative impact” from the economic fallout stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The company now plans on selling its business to Harbin Pharmaceutical Group Holding, an affiliate of GNC’s largest shareholder, for US$760 million. GNC expects to confirm a standalone plan of reorganization or consummate a sale that will enable the business to exit from this process this fall... Read more

An examination of dietary micronutrients in the wake of COVID-19 has revealed that many of those at highest risk during the pandemic are also populations at peak risk of micronutrient deficiencies and poorer overall nutrition. The evidence review, published in BMJ Nutrition states that correction of micronutrient deficiencies in established COVID-19 infection may contribute to supporting immune response to infection in those at highest risk. However, the researchers note there is a need for further research to establish optimal public health practice and clinical intervention regimens.

The coronavirus pandemic has led to a rise in eating disorders, as patients are experiencing unusually high barriers to treatment. According to expert bodies, this could be costly in health care expenses. The Strategic Training Initiative for the Prevention of Eating Disorders (STRIPED) at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Boston Children’s Hospital, the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED) and Deloitte Access Economics have released a report revealing that eating disorders cost the economy nearly US$65 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018-19, which included a US$48.6 billion (75.2 percent) loss in productivity. It also flagged that the number of eating disorder cases is estimated to increase nearly 5 percent over the next decade.

June 24

COVID-19 in infants and children represents a much lower threat to survival and health than other infections that breastfeeding protects against, according to a scientific brief from the World Health Organization (WHO). It recommends that parents should be encouraged to breastfeed, even if they have suspected or confirmed COVID-19. However, the organization flags that there is insufficient data to ascertain whether vertical transmission of COVID-19 is possible through breastfeeding... Read more

The non-profit institution established by Dr. Muhummed Majeed, Founder and Chairman of Sami-Sabinsa Group, is supporting people impacted by the pandemic via financial  contributions. These include US$1.32 million to the Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund, and over US$250,000 to the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority. Dr. Majeed Foundation is also taking part in community outreach programs to vulnerable communities in Begaluru and Hyderabad in India. 

Provezza Health has fallen foul of the US National Advertising Division (NAD) for its Instagram post that touted its elderberry syrup as “Potent Immune Support During A Severe Season.” Associated text stated that “Provezza is highly concentrated to deliver antioxidant action for immune defense.” While the advertiser disagreed that the post challenged by NAD conveyed the implied claim that Provezza Elderberry Syrup protects users against COVID-19, it committed to refrain from making express or implied claims with such a message in the future. 

June 23

Certain over-the-counter virucidal products may reduce the presence of COVID-19 in the saliva of asymptomatic patients. This is according to a pilot study published in Medical & Clinical Research, which examined five commercial products that produced a disappearance of positivity in most subjects after three days of use. AlchemLife’s Phytorelief-CC, which includes pomegranate, was found to have potentially produced the longest action of over three hours due to its slower release. The researchers state that these observations indicate a significant effect of virucidals on the viral contamination of the mouth with a simple, cost-effective model... Read more

June 22

One in four UK adults are experiencing food insecurity during the pandemic, which is likely to leave them susceptible to hunger and potential malnutrition. This is according to a survey from Feeding Britain and Northumbria University's Healthy Living Lab. It revealed that 25 percent of adults have struggled during the pandemic to access food they can afford. Meanwhile, nearly one in four adults looking after children have eaten less so they can feed the children in their household.

As COVID-19 measures begin to loosen globally, the nutrition industry is examining the effects the outbreak and its subsequent lockdowns have had on consumers’ eating habits. A British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) survey found that stress and boredom boosted unhealthy eating, while an Atkins-endorsed study showed that consumers are rethinking their habits with 70 percent looking to take a break from certain foods. In light of the findings, BNF and Atkins experts tell NutritionInsight that to avoid negative health outcomes, industry should reformulate toward healthier, low-sugar options and review products’ portion sizes... Read more 

June 19

While immunity has long been a mainstay of the supplement industry, COVID-19 has created demand like never before. This has led to increased innovation and NPD in this space, as told to NutritionInsight by Laura Collins, Business Development Specialist with Kerry Taste and Nutrition, and who has a Ph.D. in Immunology. The company’s Wellmune brand has now revealed three major trends in immunity that have appeared since the pandemic took hold, which tap into healthiness as a way of life, as well as being proactive and building loyalty... Read more

June 18

California Prunes is gearing up for increased demand following a potential link between better vitamin K status and improved COVID-19 outcomes. The board notes that prunes contain vitamin K alongside a range of other vitamins, minerals and fiber, which support overall health and the immune system. California’s prune growers and packers have already seen an increase in demand this year as shoppers stock up on prunes, which are renowned for their versatility as a cooking ingredient and snack, and can be kept stored in the cupboard for up to a year. 

Confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic can influence dietary profiles, especially those of adolescents, who are highly susceptible to acquiring bad eating habits. This is according to a new study published in Nutrients, which assessed changes to the diets of adolescents in Italy, Spain, Chile, Colombia and Brazil. Consumption of legumes, fried foods, vegetables, fruit, sweet foods, processed meat and sugar-sweetened beverages all went up. Meanwhile, fast food consumption decreased. Moreover, factors such as gender, number of household members, watching TV during mealtime, country of residence and maternal education were diversely correlated with adequate nutrition during COVID-19 confinement. The researchers state that this information could help public health authorities reshape future policies on their nutritional recommendations in preparation for future pandemics.

June 17

Natural Products Expo East has been canceled. The trade show had been set to be held in Philadelphia, US, between September 23 and 26. When Natural Products Expo West also fell through earlier this year, the organizers had stated they would focus on its eastern counterpart to compensate for the cancellation. The organizers will be refunding all paid Expo East 2020 badges and education registrations, and states that its focus is now to make the cancellation process as easy as possible. 

“We are making this decision now – more than three months before the event – because we want to do what’s best for you. We’ve learned from surveys and conversations that many community members, including retail buyers, are not confident they will feel safe traveling to or attending a large event in September. A potential lack of buyer participation, along with the show changes we would need to make to ensure the safety of the Expo East community, would have prevented us from delivering the quality experience and return on investment that our exhibitors, sponsors and the broader community deserve,” state the Natural Products Expo East organizers. 

The American Herbal Products Association has analyzed 135 warning letters issued by the US FDA or Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in relation to COVID-19. The most common subject of the claims in the letters is intravenous therapy, with 28 warning letters issued to date. Another 11 letters are directed to claims related to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) products and therapies, and six letters name herbal products as the exclusive subjects of the COVID-19 claims. Warning letters appear to be primarily generated through agency reviews of websites and social media marketing references. Only one letter mentions physical advertising at a retail location, and two others include mentions of email newsletters.

June 16

The UK government will continue to provide food over the summer holidays to children eligible for benefits-related free school meals. According to School Food Matters, the government will establish a ‘Covid Summer Food Fund’ to provide food vouchers over the six week holiday period. The scheme will cost around £120 million (US$152 million), which is in addition to a previously announced £63 million (US$80 million) local authority welfare assistance scheme. This U-turn follows legal pressure from Sustain and the Good Law Project, as well as social pressure from high-profile campaigners. 

The complex food shopping patterns that financially insecure families employ have been upended by the COVID-19 crisis. This is according to US researchers from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, who developed a web mapping tool that details states where Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly Food Stamps) shoppers can purchase groceries online and key SNAP policies related to food shopping during the pandemic. While increasing the maximum benefit for SNAP is an essential step in addressing the current food insecurity crisis, this policy change alone will not address many of the barriers low-income families are facing in acquiring food during the pandemic, the researchers warn. 

June 15

The 15th Food and Health Survey from US-based non-profit International Food Information Council (IFIC) has revealed that 85 percent of US consumers have altered their food habits as a result of the pandemic. Over 20 percent are eating healthier than they normally do, while around 17 percent are eating less healthy than they usually do. Additionally, when considering their own habits over the past decade, more than half say healthfulness impacts food shopping more now. When it comes to choosing what to consume, over half of the participants emphasize health and weight concerns equally, although 29 percent place greater emphasis on overall health, in comparison to the 16 percent who prioritize health. 

An international group of diabetes experts has established a Global Registry that aims to understand the extent and the characteristics of the manifestations of diabetes in patients with COVID-19. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the Registry has been formed to respond to emerging evidence that suggests that COVID-19 may actually trigger the onset of diabetes in healthy people and also cause severe complications of pre-existing diabetes. The registry further aims to discover the best strategies for the treatment and monitoring of affected patients, both during and after the pandemic.

The teenage years are “already difficult,” but the COVID-19 crisis has intensified the situation, according to natural ingredients producer Pharmactive. As the virus keeps adolescents worldwide confined at home, their mental health continues to be at risk from extended isolation. Addressing this, Pharmactive reaffirms its affron Spanish saffron can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in teenagers. Moreover, amid a surge in demand for natural products, affron delivers an all-natural, clinically-proven holistic way to improve mental health status... Read more

June 12

The Center for Plant-based Living (CPBL) in Missouri, US, is running a virtual version of its plant-based nutrition and culinary education program. It is also planning a re-opening of the physical space after closing during the pandemic. The founder, Caryn Dugan, says she knew people needed easy and immune-boosting recipes with attainable ingredients during stay-at-home-orders. This led her to start the bi-weekly Plant-Based Quarantine Cooking Show, which demonstrates recipes with no more than seven ingredients in 30 minutes. This informed the CPBL’s new business model, which will see the show continue as the Plant-Based Quick Cooking Show. 

June 11

BASF’s “Helping Hands” initiative is seeing the company provide support worldwide to academic research groups in their search for a suitable active ingredient to treat patients infected with the coronavirus. The company has also developed its own computer programs to design molecules and has its own supercomputer called Quriosity.

“We do not develop active pharmaceutical ingredients, but BASF has more than 150 years of experience in researching substances. This means we have the knowledge and large substance libraries with a wide variety of active ingredients. Leveraging these enormous research capabilities is another way we can contribute to combating the coronavirus pandemic,” says Dr. Peter Eckes, President Bioscience Research at BASF.

An editorial published in the British Medical Journal suggests that multiple mechanisms could explain the relationship between obesity and COVID-19. The researchers from Queen Mary University of London argue that the food industry shares the blame not only for the obesity pandemic, but also for the severity of COVID-19 disease and the consequences of the COVID-19 outbreak. The authors are now calling for governments to force the food industry to take out some of the sugar, saturated fat and salt added to food and drinks, and to only promote healthy foods. 

June 10

The UN is highlighting the need to safeguard everyone’s access to food and adequate nutrition as the pandemic threatens to push nearly 50 million more people into extreme poverty. Secretary-General António Guterres details that unless immediate action is taken, it is increasingly clear that there is an impending global food emergency that could have long term impacts on hundreds of millions of children and adults. Therefore, the UN is calling for countries to designate food and nutrition services as essential, while also implementing protections for those who work in the sector.

Danone Yogurt UK & Ireland is launching a live video series called CookAlong4Families. Each week, the company will stream an episode on YouTube, hosted by various brand ambassadors. The transmissions will show families at home how they can make healthy meals using the yogurts to help maintain and build good eating habits. Additionally, Danone will donate £1(US$1.30) to Family Action for each live view to help families in need become happier, healthier and stronger. 

June 9

Strategies or special services are needed to help older adults safely shop for food and prepare healthy meals at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is according to the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging (NPHA), which was carried out in December, before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the US in full. The authors note that the pandemic has since highlighted barriers that many consumers face when it comes to accessing high-quality, nutritious ingredients for cooking healthy meals, while also underscoring the importance of food access and the ability to cook at home... Read more

Balchem Corporation’s Human Nutrition and Health division is weighing in on recent findings that pregnant women who consume extra choline supplements. Earlier this month, it was found that this may decrease the negative impact that viral respiratory infections, including COVID-19, can have on babies. Marketing Director Tom Druch says that interest in choline is on the rise since both the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics noted the key role the nutrient plays in fetal development. 

“Why is it important that this message get out to pregnant women? Because it has been well established that moms don’t get adequate choline during pregnancy. In fact, a study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that only 8 percent of pregnant women are getting enough choline,” says Druch. 

A study conducted by Northumbria University’s Healthy Living Lab found that half of the UK children who receive free school meal vouchers have seen a significant drop in their intake of fruit and vegetables since schools closed in March. Just over half of pupils who would have received free school meals at school stated they had eaten no fresh vegetables across a three-day period following the UK’s COVID-19 lockdown. Nearly half reported having not eaten any fruit over the same period. However, many reported a major increase in consumption of sugary drinks and snacks.

June 5

A study published in Obesity reveals that COVID-19 lockdowns have negatively impacted diet, sleep and physical activity among children with obesity. Researchers from University at Buffalo (UB), US, examined 41 overweight children under confinement throughout March and April in Verona, Italy. Compared to behaviors recorded a year prior, the children ate an additional meal per day; slept an extra half hour per day; added nearly five hours per day in front of phone, computer and television screens; and dramatically increased their consumption of red meat, sugary drinks and junk foods. Physical activity, on the other hand, decreased by more than two hours per week, and the amount of vegetables consumed remained unchanged.

“The tragic COVID-19 pandemic has collateral effects extending beyond direct viral infection. Recognizing these adverse collateral effects of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown is critical in avoiding the depreciation of hard-fought weight control efforts among youths afflicted with excess weight,” says Myles Faith, PhD, UB childhood obesity expert and co-author on the study.

US-based Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is asking the US FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to take enforcement action against companies trying to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic by claiming dietary supplements fight viruses. In a market scan last week, CSPI found 46 such products on Amazon. The watchdog is now calling on the online retailer to delist such products and to work cooperatively with the FDA and FTC to protect consumers from unscrupulous supplement makers. 

June 4

A Public Health England data review has established a significant relationship between weight-related comorbidities and COVID-19 mortality in the UK. The results highlight that among deaths with COVID-19 mentioned on death certificates, a higher percentage specifies diabetes, hypertensive diseases and chronic kidney disease than all-cause death certificates. UK-based Obesity Health Alliance’s recent poll further highlights how consumers are increasingly calling for a nation-wide government battle plan to combat the UK’s “war on obesity.”... Read more

The physical version of Vitafoods Europe has been canceled and a large-scale virtual event will replace it. The trade show had already been pushed back from May to September as a result of the pandemic. Vitafoods Virtual Expo, touted as having enhanced matchmaking opportunities, video networking and high-quality educational content, will now take place from September 7 to 11. The organizers state the conclusion was not reached easily, but the proactive decision was taken after considering the health and safety of the community, as well as government and businesses restrictions on travel and gatherings.

June 3

A DSM probiotic is the latest strain to be investigated in the fight against COVID-19. Duke University Health System’s Institutional Review Board has approved a clinical trial of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, which is part of the Culturelle brand from DSM’s i-Health, Inc. The probiotic will be trialed in households exposed to COVID-19, with the researchers anticipating that it may be able to directly reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and severity of COVID-19 disease and symptoms in household contacts and caregivers of known coronavirus patients... Read more

A peer-reviewed scientific article co-authored by the Founder and Chairman of Sabinsa, Dr. Muhammed Majeed, summarizes the results from in silico and animal studies of curcumin on viral infections to assess the possible role of the ingredient in COVID-19 scenarios. The paper details that the coronavirus enters human cells through the ACE2 receptor by attaching its spike protein. Curcumin could at least partially prevent that entry as inferred from in silico docking studies. A potential inhibitory effect on the main protease of the coronavirus is also reported in an in silico study in the literature. 

“We are pleased to see this meaningful assemblage of the relevant work on curcumin published at a time when prevention and strong immunity is on the minds of people around the world. While the world anxiously awaits a permanent solution to this pandemic, it’s helpful to understand how safe herbal compounds like curcumin can support healthy immune function,” says Dr. Majeed.

Immuse, makers of an immune-boosting supplement that blends peptides with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, has partnered with BStrong and Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) to support their coronavirus kit program. The program is designed to provide medical and sanitation products to low income households and hospital staff around the nation, especially in areas that have been hit the hardest. So far, 20,000 coronavirus relief kits have been sent out across the country, consisting of essential items, such as sanitation wipes, gloves, masks, hand sanitizer, BStrong cash cards, hydration kits and a supply of Immuse. 

June 2

Pregnant women who consume extra choline supplements may decrease the negative impact that viral respiratory infections, including COVID-19, can have on their babies. This is according to a new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in the US. The researchers highlight that supplementation with choline, which is linked to boosting brain health, is more relevant now than ever. This is due to the negative effects that the novel coronavirus may have on fetuses’ brain development, leading to mental health issues… Read more

Optimum Nutrition is sending free performance nutrition products to doctors, nurses, other hospital staff and first responders. It has also partnered with Michelob Ultra for Movement By Michelob Ultra Live, which is a virtual workout series featuring celebrities, and led by top trainers and  private gym owners from around the US. “Our products aren’t just for the gym. Protein helps with satiety and muscle recovery and our Amin.O. Energy products provide caffeine from natural sources for anytime energy, electrolytes and amino acids to support focus and recovery. The company is proud to do what we can to send strength, energy and our gratitude to frontline workers,” says Kerry Leslie, Brand Activation Manager for Optimum Nutrition. 

May 29

Mounting evidence is pointing to a connection between obesity in patients and worse COVID-19 outcomes. The UK government is imminently releasing a review of this connection, which comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson declares “war on obesity” following his own COVID-19 hospitalization. In light of this, lobby group Action on Sugar/Salt (AoS) has proposed an evidence-based plan for supporting those living with obesity, while improving health for all in the long-term. Holly Gabriel, Nutritionist at AoS, tells NutritionInsight that the British government’s actions to improve access to healthy food and measures to improve the food environment have been put on hold at a time when they are “even more crucial.”... Read more

The UN is estimating that in addition to the 3.4 million people in Latin American and the Caribbean who are already unable to meet their basic food needs, ten million more people in the region could face severe food insecurity this year due to the pandemic. The UN is urging countries to provide additional support to people who benefit from national social protection programs, and to expand coverage to include groups such as migrants. “It is vital and urgent that we provide food assistance to the growing number of vulnerable people in the region, as well as those who depend on informal work. We still have time to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic from becoming a hunger pandemic,” says Miguel Barreto, World Food Program Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean.

A study published in Diabetologia reveals that one in ten COVID-19 patients with diabetes dies within seven days of hospital admission, and one in five is intubated and mechanically ventilated by this point. The CORONADO study analyzed 1,317 patients admitted to 53 French hospitals (public and private) betweenMarch 10 and 31. Worse blood sugar control did not seem to impact a patient’s outcome. However the presence of diabetic complications and an older age increased the risk of death. Meanwhile, increased BMI is associated with both heightened need for mechanical ventilation and also a higher mortality rate. The study also confirmed that insulin, alongside  all treatments for modifying blood sugar, are not a risk factor for severe forms of COVID-19 and should be continued in patients with diabetes.

May 28

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) may inhibit the binding of noroviruses to human receptors, according to recent results from Jennewein Biotechnology’s norovirus research program. Published in the Journal of Biotechnology, the study found that certain HMOs and more complex oligosaccharides were more effective than those previously studied. Researchers note that these findings could pave the way for the use of HMOs as a potential inhibitor against infectious diseases, such as the norovirus, for which there is no vaccine. Dr. Katja Parschat, Deputy Head F&E at Jennewein Biotechnology, tells NutritionInsight how these findings could be used in the fight against COVID-19... Read more

Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) has written to the US FDA voicing concerns on behalf of the food allergy community over the agency’s loosening of certain food labeling requirements for minor formulation changes. Chief among concerns expressed in FARE’s letter is that the FDA’s guidance casts doubt on whether those with food allergies can safely and confidently purchase food if labels will not provide necessary information regarding ingredients. FARE is now asking the FDA to require that food manufacturers inform consumers of any changes to products digitally, including through websites, social media channels, SmartLabel and alerts on online retail shopping websites, as well as using labeling alternatives such as stickers.

“There are 32 million US consumers living with potentially life-threatening food allergies and the challenges they face each day have been made worse during the pandemic with many media outlets continuously highlighting issues accessing safe, trusted and allergen-free food products. We understand that COVID-19 has been an obstacle for food manufacturers too, through unanticipated shortages and supply chain disruptions to ensure products are available. However, the food allergy community relies on transparency and it is our hope that we can work together with FDA to find a solution that benefits everyone and ensures the safety of the food supply for those whose lives depend on knowing exactly what is in the products they are buying,” says Lisa Gable, CEO of FARE.

The Australian Department of Health’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is reminding companies that advertisement for cold and flu products must not be inconsistent with the current public health advice about COVID-19. Promoting a product as enabling someone to attend a workplace, school or other activity outside of home while experiencing cold and flu symptoms (even if temporarily controlled) conflicts with the Department of Health’s advice to stay home when unwell.

May 27

Danone’s nutrition health arm, Nutricia, is supporting research from independent medical professionals to define guidelines for nutritional care for COVID-19 patients recovering after intensive care unit (ICU) discharge. Over the coming weeks, other clinician-initiated research projects in 16 countries around the world will be supported by Nutricia with grants totalling approximately €1 million (US$1.1 million). The company is also supporting healthcare organizations in different countries through the donation of medical nutrition products enriched with calories and proteins, which are designed to help patients regain lost weight and strength after recovering from a serious illness, such as COVID-19... Read more

A report is calling for new legal measures to prohibit the promotion of breast milk substitutes to health workers and in health facilities. Released by the World Health Organization (WHO), the UN’s Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN), the report states that countries are falling short in their efforts to stop the harmful promotion of breast milk substitutes. This is amplified as COVID-19 leaves an opening for the breast-milk substitute industry to “capitalize on the crisis.” The agencies argue that the pandemic is highlighting the need for stronger legislation to protect families from false claims about the safety of breast milk substitutes or aggressive marketing practices... Read more

Pediatricians from Johns Hopkins Children’s Center and Children’s National Hospital are highlighting that children from low-income households are experiencing major disruptions as a result of restrictions in place to curb the spread of the disease. This is in their already inconsistent routines and less-than-adequate resources critical to nutrition, as well as to learning and social development. The authors recommend that future COVID-19 legislation target child health and well-being. They say that this effort should include expanding services and increasing funding for health and nutrition assistance programs. 

The Isopure Company has donated US$240,000 in its protein drinks to support healthcare workers, first responders and food banks on the front lines of the COVID-19 response. The donation includes over 60,000 Isopure Zero Carb 40 Gram, 20 Gram, and Cocotein protein drinks packed with 100 percent pure whey protein isolate and effective ingredients. This is part of a broader Glanbia Performance Nutrition donation program with sister brands Optimum Nutrition and BSN.

May 26

Hofseth BioCare (HBC) is entering into a Phase 2 clinical trial to assess the ability of OmeGo salmon oil to reduce Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) related to COVID-19. HBC is currently preparing an investigational protocol with KGK Science, which will then be filed with Health Canada. The trial will use OmeGo in the form of CARDIO, a branded soft gel, on former smokers and steroid-resistant asthma patients who exhibit early non-acute lung injury caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. If the initial efficacy data is supportive, the trial can then be scaled to a fully powered Phase 3 study with 600 patients... Read more

Arjuna Natural is seeing a surge in demand for its key botanicals, with its flagship BCM-95 turmeric extract seeing a particular boost following the onset of COVID-19. It is touted for having antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. The company also notes that ashwagandha extract – which is now being investigated as a tool against the virus – has seen an upturn in demand. Although the company has faced some supply issues past weeks, the India-based manufacturer has retained its entire workforce throughout the pandemic, and has paid out salaries in full even during the full-phase lockdowns. It also donated 2,000 L of hand sanitizer and is supporting the coordination of community kitchens. 

“Immunity and wellbeing are broad concepts. There is no one magic elixir for achieving optimal health. Consumers are going back to traditional medical roots and seeking foods and health supplements that can boost natural resilience and support various conditions they might be suffering from. As platforms for physical interactions and trade shows grind to a halt, we are reinforcing our digital presence and reinvigorating our marketing and communications plan,” says Dr. Benny Antony, Joint Managing Director for Arjuna.

May 25

Natural compounds from ashwagandha and propolis could be used as an effective tool against the novel coronavirus, according to a study from DAILAB at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, India, and DAILAB at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Japan. The team state that their findings may not only save time and money in the screening for drugs against COVID-19, but may also offer some preventive and therapeutic value for the management of the pandemic. NutritionInsight speaks to industry movers about the potential this avenue could hold... Read more

Among the repercussions of COVID-19, gyms and most sports facilities are off limits until the pandemic is sufficiently under control. This is changing the landscape for sports nutrition, which is still enjoying popularity although the long-term effects of the lockdowns are still unknown. This is according to Joe Katterfield, Sales Development Manager for Sports Nutrition and Health Foods at Arla Foods Ingredients, who speaks to NutritionInsight about how the company is handling the outbreak and its impact on the dairy segment... Read more

The important role of dieticians in helping to improve COVID-19 outcomes is highlighted by the European Federation of the Associations of Dietitians (EFAD). Good nutrition can help boost recovery and dietitians are experts in assessing the nutritional demands of each individual patient, according to the organization. Moreover, depending on the case, a tailored dietary regime may help boost patient-specific deficiencies and speed recovery. EFAD recently released a briefing to outline the role that dieticians can play in tackling the pandemic... Read more

Kroger Health has launched a free telenutrition service to help US consumers shop for, prepare and enjoy healthy, fresh and non-perishable foods during the COVID-19 outbreak. The free telenutrition service is the latest offering from Kroger Health’s Food as Medicine platform. According to a Kroger report, 51 percent of consumers are cooking and baking more often than before the crisis, while 45 percent are cooking the same amount.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed shopping, cooking and eating routines for households across the US. Many families and individuals are, for the first time, exclusively relying on cooking for meals, some with limited budgets and nutrition knowledge. Through Kroger Health’s telenutrition service, our dietitians are providing free personalized nutrition advice to help our customers shop for and prepare delicious and affordable nutritious meals,” says Jim Kirby, Kroger Health’s Senior Director. 

The US FDA is providing additional temporary flexibility in food labeling requirements to manufacturers and vending machine operators. The goal is to provide regulatory flexibility, where appropriate, to help minimize the impact of supply chain disruptions on product availability. Minor formulation changes in certain circumstances no longer require an updated label. These circumstances include a quantity change of less than 2 percent weight, avoiding substitutions with allergens, and not changing a major ingredient. 

May 22

A new consensus paper warns against taking large doses of vitamin D as a way to address COVID-19. This stance comes as other researchers in recent weeks have previously called for supplementation above the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), albeit within recommended upper safety limits. Nonetheless, the latest paper also focalizes the importance of avoiding vitamin D deficiency, as many people are spending more time indoors than usual... Read More

The sports nutrition market is persevering despite the effects of COVID-19, with ingredient producer Prosol highlighting the role of dietary nucleotides in fighting fatigue, which can weaken the immune system. Meanwhile, NPD marches on, with Orgain launching a line of organic plant-based sports powders high in vitamin C and adaptogens. The range includes three products and is touted as supporting optimal performance and recovery... Read More

In the latest controversy within the children’s marketing space, Pringles-owner Kellogg’s is dropping advertisements for the snacks from the popular UK exercise sessions “PE With Joe” on YouTube, after it was exposed for “irresponsible advertising.” The UK Advertising Standards Authority has decided not to pursue a formal regulatory investigation into the issue following one complaint, but health campaigners have flagged that children are “even more of a captive audience” during the lockdown and are calling for F&B advertisements for less healthy products to be restricted to after 9 pm on all media platforms... Read More 

Royal DSM has launched UNITE4COVID, a digital and open collaborative marketplace designed to provide solutions for healthcare professionals, as well as a forum and collaboration hub for inventors, manufacturers and certification labs in the fight against the coronavirus. DSM says the platform makes finding approved COVID-19 solutions easier by providing transparency. Healthcare professionals, as well as organizations, institutions and companies looking to protect their patients, employees and customers, can access UNITE4COVID to see and request the currently available solutions.

Gaia Herbs is bolstering its production capabilities to manufacture and donate herbal hand sanitizer to US frontline workers, including healthcare workers, farmworkers and government officials. The first batch of donations will comprise a total of 217 one gallon bottles and 3,000 2 oz bottles.

“Gaia Herbs has a long history of working with food-grade alcohol as part of our herbal extraction process, so when the critical need for and shortage of hand sanitizer became clear, it was an easy decision to create a product that meets all CDC requirements. We are donating our entire first production run to help protect those who are helping others, as we appreciate and recognize their hard work and dedication to selflessly serving our community,” says Angela McElwee, President and CEO of Gaia Herbs.

May 20

A survey of over 1,000 consumers from warehousing company Ware2Go reveals that 34 percent of US consumers are shopping with vitamin and supplement brands that they had never purchased from before. This is in comparison to 61 percent and 17 percent purchasing new grocery and fitness brands, respectively. It also reports that 42 percent of US consumers have started to purchase vitamins and supplements online, while 42 percent have started exercising. 

The UK’s All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Human Microbiome has called on the government to evaluate the role of the human gut microbiome with respect to the COVID-19 pandemic. The APPG is specifically asking for the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to evaluate and assess approaches based on new research, especially those that impact susceptibility and recovery from acute infectious diseases. The group states that both vaccines and pharmaceutical treatments are likely to still be far away from coming into routine use. “In the meantime, we believe that attention should be given to emerging, but convincing, evidence that gut health may be related to COVID-19,” the group states. 

The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is seeking US$350 million to scale up hunger-fighting and livelihoods-boosting activities where COVID-19’s impact on food scarcity could be devastating. It states that while the pandemic’s full-scale and long-term impact on food security is yet to be revealed, people in countries already hit by acute hunger are increasingly struggling to have access to food as incomes fall and food prices rise.

May 19

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warning letters to two companies for selling fraudulent COVID-19 products, as part of the agency’s effort to protect consumers. There are currently no FDA-approved products to prevent or treat COVID-19, the agency says. The first seller warned, Noetic Nutraceuticals, offers CBD products for sale in the US with misleading claims that the products are safe and/or effective for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The second seller warned, The Golden Road Kratom, offers kratom products for sale in the US with misleading claims that the products are safe and/or effective for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

ADM Biopolis and Hospital de Sagunto, in Spain, have launched a clinical trial into the effects of administering a food supplement containing three of ADM’s live probiotic strains on COVID-19 patients. The trial began at the end of March and aims to promote gut microbiome balance to help improve health functions related to outcomes for COVID-19 patients in high-risk groups. Probiotics’ potential in tackling the novel coronavirus is increasingly brought to the fore and many players in the space are exploring this opportunity. ... Read More

Committed to support the public health response to COVID-19, the United States Pharmacopeia Convention (USP) is focusing its efforts in building a resilient global medicines supply chain. Acute disruptions, such as the COVID-19 crisis, expose vulnerabilities in the supply chain and cause harm to patients, the organization says. USP therefore supports the global community’s efforts to strengthen supply chain resilience, including advancing the use of pharmacopeial standards, to help ensure the supply of quality medicines. In particular, USP call on all stakeholders to:

• Increase transparency, including expanding requirements for industry and healthcare providers to report on existing or potential drug shortage indicators.
• Bolster quality assurance through regulatory workforce training and national drug quality control laboratories and industry compliance to international standards, including good manufacturing practices.
• Strengthen regulatory systems to review new applications more efficiently, conduct risk-based post-market surveillance and protect patient safety.
• Invest in advanced manufacturing technologies to enable more efficient and nimble production of essential medicines and vaccines.
• Facilitate local production capabilities to secure a supply of essential, quality-assured medicines and vaccines during a crisis.
• Enhance global cooperation through increased information-sharing and recognition and reliance agreements among pharmacopeias and regulators to coordinate access to essential medicines and vaccines and disincentivize substandard and falsified medicines.
  
  

May 18

The race for a COVID-19 vaccine is in full swing, with players in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and nutraceutical industry looking to solve the pandemic’s spread. The UK Government has pledged £84 million (US$100 million) in funding to the first researchers to find a coronavirus vaccine. The news comes as Oxford University – which is already researching a vaccine – signed a global licensing agreement with biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca. If research is successful, AstraZeneca will help with manufacturing and commercializing the vaccine, with 30 million doses available by September in the UK, as the initial goal of the agreement. ... Read More

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized an at-home sample collection kit that can then be sent to specified laboratories for COVID-19 diagnostic testing. Specifically, the FDA issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) to Everlywell for the Everlywell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit. Everlywell’s kit is authorized to be used by individuals at home who have been screened using an online questionnaire that is reviewed by a health care provider. This allows an individual to self-collect a nasal sample at home using Everlywell’s authorized kit. The FDA has also authorized two COVID-19 diagnostic tests, performed at specific laboratories, for use with samples collected using the Everlywell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit. These tests have been authorized under separate, individual EUAs. Additional tests may be authorized for use with the Everlywell at-home collection kit in the future, provided data are submitted in an EUA request that demonstrate the accuracy of each test when used with the Everlywell at-home collection kit. 

GOJO and Lubrizol, two purpose-driven companies in Northeast Ohiom US, are joining forces  to donate more than 16,000 liters – or the equivalent of nearly 65,000 8 oz. bottles of PURELL Hand Sanitizer – to local hospitals. This announcement comes at a time that Ohio hospitals are preparing for an influx of COVID-19 patients. GOJO and Lubrizol worked with the CEOs of each hospital system in Cuyahoga, Summit and Wayne Counties to provide a 1-liter bottle of hand sanitizer to every patient room, for the months of April and May. 

May 15

Weighing in on the discussion surrounding vitamin D, Keith Neal, Emeritus Professor in the Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases at University of Nottingham says: “There is some evidence that vitamin D supplements reduce the risk of respiratory virus infections and there is good evidence that vitamin D deficiency impairs the immune system. Vitamin D levels are low at the end of our winter and people staying inside will only prolong this. The only vitamin supplement recommended by Public Health England is vitamin D in the winter.” 

A US federal court has entered a temporary restraining order against Xephyr LLC, doing business as N-Ergetics, and three individuals associated with the entity. The US court now requires them to immediately stop distributing colloidal silver products. According to the US FDA, the defendants offered these products for sale to treat COVID-19. In granting the government’s request for relief, the court found that the US company has demonstrated that Xephyr and the associated individuals named in the injunction are violating the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act by unlawfully distributing colloidal silver products that are unapproved new drugs and misbranded drugs. 

May 14

The sports nutrition market is presenting a mixed picture in terms of how it has fared amid COVID-19, which has seen the temporary closure of gyms and sports in numerous countries. This is according to a spokesperson from the European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance (ESSNA), who speaks to NutritionInsight ahead of its virtual meeting. To be held this Monday, the meeting will open its doors to players across the entire industry – a move away from its traditional status of only being open to its members. ESSNA states that it is now working with the sports sector at large to ensure they can come out of this crisis “stronger than ever.”... Read more

Ingredia has seen its preclinical and clinical trials be put on stand-by for two months, meaning that it is expecting a delay to innovation. Audrey Boulier, Innovation Manager, tells NutritionInsight that the recruitment period is especially fraught as many volunteers do not currently want to go to the investigation center. The right population must be chosen, with a major challenge being selecting volunteers who are at risk of developing a certain disease so that the study can examine prevention efficacy. 

“We were challenged with continuing the clinical studies that were in progress before the appearance of COVID-19. The cross-over design was the least impacted because you can extend the washout period. Thus, all the e-tools like questionnaires were less affected than physical visits at the investigation center. In the long-term, e-tools will become more and more efficient and there is room for innovation. I believe we will encourage the follow-up of the volunteers at home where possible to reduce the physical contact or the dependence to a clinical center,” states Boulier. Earlier this month, NutritionInsight assessed to what extent R&D may be affected and how long these impacts may last... Read more

The US-based Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is strongly supporting the US$3 trillion HEROES Act, proposed by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. According to CSPI, the Act would do more to alleviate hunger and stimulate the economy by expanding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in ways that earlier coronavirus relief packages failed to do, including a 15 percent increase of SNAP benefits. 

May 13

Marinova’s Maritech fucoidan, a natural compound derived from seaweed, can reduce flu severity by significantly reducing clinical symptoms and lung damage in a severe influenza A H1N1 model, according to a new mouse study funded by the Australian biotechnology company. The reduction of both symptoms and lung damage in the form of consolidation points to the potential for fucoidan to be utilized in nutritional supplements to manage viral infections where lung damage occurs. The company is now screening the in vitro activity of Maritech fucoidan with regard to COVID-19... Read more

The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) states that the country’s 1,900 community pharmacies are struggling to cope with soaring costs and falling revenues. The IPU COVID-19 Business Survey reveals the extent of the severe cost increases being borne by pharmacies providing frontline care during the crisis. The vast majority of pharmacies have been hit by significant extra costs to enable them to remain open and to provide safe care, while retail sales have fallen by an average of 36 percent across the sector. 

Natural foods company Greenjoy is partnering with nearly a dozen organizations to bring food to those in need. The founder of the company, which is known for its superfood salad dressings, has launched a philanthropic initiative committed to donating nearly US$300,000 worth of healthy food products through non-profits and food banks serving those affected by COVID-19. Greenjoy says this demonstrates its core values of giving back and making healthy foods accessible for all.

May 12

The Lallemand group is partnering with Canadian companies Biotechnologies Ulysse and Bio-K Plus to develop a vaccine against COVID-19. The vaccine could contain live bacteria and yeast that have the same properties as the virus, but without the contagious load of COVID-19. Biotechnologies Ulysse is working on a proof of concept, hoping to start testing the vaccine in animals within four to six weeks, and to have obtained the first preclinical results in around four to five months... Read more

A new survey by the Natural Products Association (NPA) is highlighting how the natural products industry has been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. The survey found that one in four natural products businesses were unable to submit their application for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses. This new survey is a follow up survey of natural products businesses that was released on April 21. Additional findings of the survey include:

• 70 percent of businesses applied for a PPP loan, down 3 percent from the initial survey.

• 46 percent of businesses that applied for a PPP loan have not received a loan.

• 27 percent of businesses were unable to submit an application for a PPP loan.

• 24 percent of businesses that reapplied have received a PPP loan.

A new study highlighted by SmilePage Health Institute about dental workers discovered that they need more vitamin D3 before returning to high-risk jobs, underscored by the present COVID-19 outbreak. Researchers found many dental staffers suffer from vitamin D Deficiency (VDD), a condition that greatly raises COVID-19 risk. That combination of low vitamin D and risky job makes it crucial for all those working in a dental office to be treated for VDD before going back on the job, the researchers say.

May 11

Financial experts warn of an imminent recession due to the COVID-19-induced market shut down. In the food and beverage arena, the hospitality industry seems to be the one most affected, having been closed for over a month now across many countries. However, one potential winner – if there can be one amid a global crisis – is the supplements space, which is seeing products flying off the shelves, with a pronounced focus on immunity and preventative care. Dominique Baum, Managing Director of Ayanda, the European arm of Sirio and ingredients supplier for the nutraceutical industry, speaks to NutritionInsight about the pandemic’s impact on the supply chain, rising ingredient trends and building customer trust... Read more

The UK government has announced a £16 million (US$19 million) program to provide food for those who are struggling as a result of the coronavirus. The funds will provide millions of meals over the next 12 weeks and will be delivered through charities including FareShare and Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP). However, charity Sustain says that this amount is mere “crumbs” for the hundreds of thousands of people facing extreme difficulties. 

“Frontline charities and volunteers are working fit to bust to help people get food, but at the gigantic scale of household food insecurity we are now seeing, charity is not the answer. Everyone able to get to the shops needs money so that they can buy food themselves, enabling frontline groups to focus on helping those struggling for other reasons such as homelessness, illness, disability or being housebound or isolated due to old age. We need an adequate social security safety net and a proper assessment of the income and food needs of millions of people in the UK over the months to come, not just crumbs from the table,” says Kath Dalmeny, Chief Executive of Sustain.

May 8

Nutrition companies have been forced to rethink their financial priorities as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt supply chains and tighten purse strings. Often it’s R&D that suffers when companies scale back during difficult times. However, lessons from the past show that R&D budgets must be prioritized in order to maintain momentum to industry innovation. NutritionInsight speaks with Valio and Monteloeder to get to the bottom of how the “new normal” is set to affect capital investment in R&D... Read more

Researchers from Northwestern University, US, have discovered a strong correlation between severe vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 mortality rates. The team conducted a statistical analysis of data from hospitals and clinics across China, France, Germany, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, the UK and the US. They found that patients from countries with high COVID-19 mortality rates, such as Italy, Spain and the UK, had lower levels of vitamin D compared to patients in countries that were not as severely affected. The researchers caution that this does not mean that everyone needs to start hoarding supplements. However, last month, NutritionInsight reported that some researchers are calling for “urgent supplementation” in vulnerable groups in light of other recent studies… Read more

The US FDA has now sent 42 warning letters to companies making “bogus” COVID-19 claims, with the authority stating it is continuing to take a number of steps to find and stop those selling unapproved products that fraudulently claim to mitigate, prevent, treat, diagnose or cure COVID-19. This comes as the Australian Department of Health’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) warns consumers of misleading claims made about Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS) in reference to COVID-19. TGA states that MMS is often marketed as water purification drops and may be offered under different names, including Miracle Mineral Supplement. It contains a high concentration of sodium chlorite, which can pose a serious health risk if consumed by humans and should be labeled with the appropriate warnings.

May 7

Fonterra-owned brand NZMP is highlighting the malnutrition risks that COVID-19 patients may face, in particular when they are seriously ill. NZMP’s Medical Nutrition team is using its platform to highlight guidelines issued by the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) (formerly European Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition), which include guidance on the use of supplements in a range of possible scenarios… Read more

With the importance of immunity becoming more pronounced in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, dairy players are spotlighting how overall health and wellness can be bolstered by their products –  including lactoferrin – which are seeing increasing demand. NutritionInsight speaks to experts within the dairy ingredients segment who note that despite the pandemic’s impact, the sector is going strong, with cutting-edge NPD imminent. Moreover, as consumers are confined in their homes, sports nutrition is changing and this provides ample opportunity for innovation… Read more

A small increase in demand was noted in DSM’s Nutrition business due to COVID-19, with momentum increasing through Q1 2020. Overall, the quarter saw Nutrition sales rise 4 percent. Organic sales were up 2 percent and adjusted EBITDA was up 3 percent. The Group’s overall adjusted net profit increased by 8 percent up to €216 million (US$230 million). DSM expects its Nutrition division to deliver at least a mid-single-digit increase in adjusted EBITDA, but given current limited visibility in its Materials segment, the overall earnings outlook is suspended at this time. 

“While these are uncertain times, we are taking all necessary actions to address recent challenges in end-markets. We remain well-positioned to manage near-term developments with a growing Nutrition business and a strong financial position. We stay focused on our long-term strategy to deliver above-market growth, pursuing our innovation programs and growth initiatives, supported by the execution of our self-help actions,” jointly state Geraldine Matchett and Dimitri de Vreeze, DSM’s Co-CEOs. 

More than 20 UK charities, organizations and education unions have come together to call for additional funding for continued food provision during the forthcoming school half-term and summer holidays. “Hunger does not know the difference between term time and school holidays, and the government’s support for families should be continuous through this crisis. Given the scale of food and income insecurity being experienced by so many families, it is critical that the government makes national-level funding available to cover all the school holidays until the start of the new academic year,” says Barbara Crowther, Campaign Coordinator for the Children’s Food Campaign.

May 6

A correlation has been found between low selenium levels and COVID-19 death rates in China. This was revealed in a population-based, retrospective analysis published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, which details how meager levels of the antioxidant in regions of China line up with worse COVID-19 outcomes. This comes as immunity continues to be a topic of great focus within industry, with players reporting boosts to sales... Read more

The European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance (ESSNA) is inviting the entire industry to discuss priorities for sports nutrition amid the pandemic in a virtual meeting scheduled for May 18. While the meetings are normally closed to non-members, ESSNA aims to offer the rest of the industry the opportunity to participate in its inner workings and to stimulate an open discussion on the current situation. 

“The current pandemic is undoubtedly having an impact on the sports nutrition sector and ESSNA is cooperating with European policymakers to ensure that the voice of the sports nutrition sector is heard throughout these difficult times. This is an invaluable opportunity for the wider industry to take part in a dynamic and engaging discussion with other industry peers to exchange ideas and put forward suggestions on a variety of subjects important to the sector today, as well as to have a glimpse of and feed into ESSNA’s work, aims and priorities on behalf of the industry,” says Dr. Adam Carey, Chair of ESSNA.

UK-based The Food Foundation has revealed that over five million people in households with children have experienced food insecurity after just a month of lockdown. The foundation commissioned a YouGov poll, which found that over 200,000 children have had to skip meals because their families couldn’t access sufficient food during lockdown. Meanwhile, a million children have had less nutritious sustenance and are eating low-cost, unbalanced meals because their parents have run out of food. As a result, The Food Foundation is calling on the government to stop food insecurity driven by lack of money and implement an emergency income support scheme to ensure people can buy the food they need to stay healthy at home. It also argues that the five-week wait for Universal Credit should be abolished while making child benefit a fortnightly payment (thereby doubling it), as well as removing the benefit cap. 

May 4

COVID-19 will “forever change the health and wellness sector” from a business point of view, as more people seek to cut through the nutrition clutter and have a trusted voice of authority. This is according to Jason Brown, Founder and CEO of Persona Nutrition, which provides consumers with personalized vitamin and mineral packs and became part of Nestlé Health Science (NHSc) in 2019. Brown tells NutritionInsight that the pandemic is set to have a lasting impact on tailored nutrition and flags growth opportunities in telehealth... Read more

Lockdown and isolation measures as a result of COVID-19 have rapidly increased screen time – and with it eyesight damage. As education, work and entertainment pastimes hosted on virtual platforms have now reached unprecedented levels, digital device overexposure from multiple screens for extended periods has promptly resulted in frequent eye strain and visual discomfort, some of which can be addressed with nutritional products. NutritionInsight speaks with industry experts on escalated eye health concerns as well as the increased demand for eye health ingredients... Read more

Ninety-five percent of algal extracts producer Algaia’s deliveries have been achieved on time in full, despite facing a demand increasing 20 to 30 percent over last year, the company’s CEO Fabrice Bohin affirms. With its neighboring manufacturing facilities located next to abundant fresh seaweed biomass, Algaia and Gelymar have been supporting each other by sharing experiences and installing facility procedures to secure the health and wellness of their respective employees and weather the COVID-19 crisis. 

May 1

Consumers are increasingly wary of verifying the efficacy of products, meaning scientific backing has never been more critical. However, the rise of COVID-19 could throw a wrench in many companies’ plans for clinical trials as lockdowns and social distancing restrictions continue around the globe. NutritionInsight speaks to Evolva and assess to what extent R&D may be affected and how long these impacts may last. This comes as researchers push for trials to continue... Read more

BASF’s Q1 financial results revealed that the company will not be able to meet its overall group sales and earnings forecast for the 2020 business year. “The company is therefore withdrawing its outlook for 2020. It is currently impossible to reliably estimate both the length and the further spread of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as future measures to contain it. Consequently, concrete statements on the future development of sales and earnings cannot be made at present,” the company maintains in its financial release,” it states. However, the Nutrition & Care segment saw an increased EBIT... Read more

Emergen-C has launched its “Emerge Our Best” campaign, which aims to offer inspiration to isolated consumers, as well as provide protective supplies and other supportive resources for hard-working health workers on the frontlines. The brand is donating US$500,000 to Americares, a health-focused relief and development organization that responds to people affected by poverty or disaster with medicine, medical supplies and health programs. The donation will help Americares deliver much needed protective supplies and provide skill-building workshops and emotional support for health workers.

Tivity Health, a provider of nutrition, fitness and social engagement solutions, is partnering with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) and the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP) to help meet the increasing demand for healthy, frozen and shelf-stable meals for seniors during the COVID-19 crisis. Tivity Health is providing access to a wide range of bundled meal options from its Nutrisystem and South Beach Diet menus to members of these organizations. “This initiative comes at a critical time when our members and their partners are concerned about not having enough meals to serve older adults in their communities,” says Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP. “These meals will meet a critical need for older adults, who are especially vulnerable to additional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Valio’s employees are weighing in on their COVID-19 experiences from their various home bases around the world. An HR manager in Estonia notes that the country has had one of the mildest coronavirus progression curves in the EU thus far, meaning the company has had valuable time to adjust. A foodservice manager in Sweden states the situation has created a strong company culture that will be carried into the future. “Our values are changing and the world is never going to be the same. I believe many of us will learn to live online and to handle things without offline office discussions and hour-long meetings, as they may be solved much more quickly online,” adds a press secretary from Russia.

April 30

US-based whole food supplement company Balanced of Nature is attempting to “combat the panic gripping people across the world rather than stoke hysteria.” In a letter, founder Dr. Douglas Howard highlighted the role of immunity, stating: “I’m not worried about you if you’re doing what you can do to strengthen your immune system.” The letter then outlines concrete ways to continually bolster the immune system. His guidance falls under a philosophy he developed called the Triad of Health, which includes the physical, chemical, and mental or spiritual components of health. He recommends that consumers stay physically active, consume healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, and think about what can be done to help and uplift others.

April 29

Accounting for nearly one fifth of the global population, India is home to numerous nutritional players who are feeling the pressure of the government’s extended lockdown, lasting at least until May 3. However, Arjuna Natural and OmniActive Health Technologies have both managed to remain operational as they produce critical health ingredients and products. They tell NutritionInsight about the major supply chain disruptions they are facing, how they are adapting to the critical challenges and how providing relief assistance exceeds business profit expectations... Read more

A staple ingredient within the health and wellness category, collagen maintains a steady course of growth, with pronounced focus on joint health, skin care and sports nutrition. NutritionInsight speaks to key players in the collagen segment who explain how they are coping with challenges presented by the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as whether vegan collagen is a viable alternative and a trend that is here to stay... Read more

Fi & Hi Asia-China has been postponed to November 25-27. The trade show was originally scheduled to take place in Shanghai, June 22-24. The organizers note that with travel restrictions in some countries, imposed quarantine for returnees, this postponement will provide far greater flexibility for communities. Hosting the event at a later time will allow optimal business performance for exhibitors and buyers, they state. The organizers are also now working on an e-commerce platform called Virtual Expo Connect, which will take place from June 2020. The virtual platform is touted as “breaking the physical restrictions and facilitating unlimited connections among global health and food companies during this unprecedented time.”

The UK-based Cannabis Trades Association (CTA)’s request to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) for an extension of the requirements to present a validated Novel Foods Application has been rejected. The CTA asked for the extension due to the economic impact of the pandemic, noting that many of its members have pivoted operations to aid the NHS and other healthcare related businesses, by supplying, donating and manufacturing PPE and hand sanitizers. However, the CTA says that the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has failed to acknowledge that most CTA members have continued to trade to the general public with highly discounted cannabinoid preparations in order to maintain the health and well-being of the population.

Around 6 percent of tweets about breastfeeding and COVID-19 contain scientifically unfounded recommendations and or promotion for commercial use. This is according to a new study from Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation Mother-Milk-Infant Center of Research Excellence (MOMI CORE). The researchers identified several influencers and brokers and were encouraged to find that the vast majority of tweets reflected current scientific guidance, updates from researchers about ongoing COVID-19 studies, as well as community engagement and breastfeeding advocacy to support clinicians and families. Last month, the organization embarked on research into the safety and protective functions of breast milk as it relates to the coronavirus pandemic… Read more

April 28

Nestlé and Danone are joining a coalition calling for Nutri-Score to become the mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labeling system across the EU. Bart Vandewaetere, Head of Corporate Communications and Government Relations for Nestlé Zone EMENA, tells NutritionInsight that less healthy lifestyles are set to rise amid the economic downturn created by COVID-19, meaning that transparent ways of communicating nutrition are particularly crucial. The move comes as Nestlé and Danone also both invest in health-related NPD, further bolstering their nutrition credentials... Read more

Better vitamin K status in patients with COVID-19 has been linked to improved health outcomes, compared to patients with poor vitamin K status. The research, published in the journal Preprints, suggests a connection between low levels of vitamin K and the accelerated breakdown of tissue fibers, including elastin, which is involved with pulmonary disease. Patients with severe COVID-19 are more likely to have comorbidities such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which are also associated with reduced vitamin K status. The findings suggest that improved vitamin K levels may play a role in improving the body’s natural ability to cope with the disease. However, researchers warn that more studies are warranted before any real conclusions can be drawn... Read more

Biotechnology company Nuritas has received a grant from Partnership for Advanced Computing in Europe (PRACE) to identify therapeutic peptides for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Under the terms of the grant, the US-based company will employ its proprietary artificial intelligence platform to identify peptides with antiviral properties as well as peptides with cytokine regulatory properties, with the goal of creating a therapeutic “peptide cocktail.” Nuritas says this approach has the potential to slow or stop disease progression by both mitigating viral replication and modifying the cytokine-based inflammatory response known to drive respiratory damage in patients with COVID-19. 

“It is obvious that more than one solution may be needed to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Nuritas team is eager to leverage our proprietary AI platform, which seamlessly integrates vast quantities of data with strong scientific capabilities, to identify therapeutic peptides with the potential to address two key drivers of disease progression,” says Nora Khaldi, Nuritas Founder and CEO. 

Canada-based Algarithm has released an activity book for self-isolating children centered around omega 3 and algae. “We wanted to do something to help, so we developed an omega-3 and algae-themed coloring and activity book for kids. We know it won’t keep them busy for the entire self-isolation period, but at the very least, it’ll be fun and (mildly) educational,” says the company. 

April 24

US-based Farlong Pharmaceutical will open up the sales of three Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas to consumers, including Qing Fei Pai Du Tang (QPD), which has allegedly been recommended by the Chinese National Health Commission as a treatment for COVID-19. Farlong states that TCM doctors use the formula – which contains 21 herbal medicines – to dry lungs and support the organs. However, many companies have been warned in recent weeks for implying that their products can have an effect on COVID-19... Read more

Many businesses active in the gut health space, including Probi and Lehvoss Nutrition, have seen a recent boost to their immunity-related products as consumers leave no stone unturned in safeguarding their health amid the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdown measures unlikely to lift entirely until a pharmaceutical treatment is found – which could be over a year away – probiotics and postbiotics could provide an avenue of maintaining health in the meantime, with Biosearch Life launching a clinical trial examining the effect of its Hereditum Immunactiv K8 product on COVID-19. NutritionInsight speaks to industry players and weighs up how far the digestive health industry can go in the fight against COVID-19... Read more

Micronutrient-rich supplements are a safe, effective and inexpensive means of strengthening resistance to infections and protecting the body from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, according to a new study review from the Oregon State University (OSU), US. The research team warrants supplementation above the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), but within recommended upper safety limits, for specific nutrients, such as vitamins C and D. The study also appeals for public health officials to delineate nutritional strategies in public health recommendations, with frequent hand washing and social distancing at the forefront, to help prevent the spread of infections further... Read more

COVID-19 has not thrown a spanner in Probi’s Q1 2020 results. The probiotics company saw a 14 percent growth rate compared to last year, although its EBITDA margin fell to 19 percent. This drop is explained by a less favorable product mix in the quarter and one-off costs, partly due to a temporary disruption in production. Nonetheless, production at its US facilities continues, with only minor disruptions in the supply chain at present. Probi has ensured delivery capacity through subcontractors in the event that additional restrictions in the areas where we operate could affect our own production. Notably, the company has also seen a clear increase in interest in its immunity products in all markets, in terms of early and extended orders. 

April 23

Public Health England (PHE) has advised that consumers consider taking a 10 mg vitamin D supplement throughout spring and summer while lockdown continues. This stems from concern that consumers are not getting enough of the vitamin from sun exposure alone. The move is supported by the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF), with Sara Stanner, its Science Director, explaining: “In normal circumstances, at this time of year the warmer weather means we may get outdoors more often. Unfortunately, as the effects of coronavirus continue, many of us are limited in the time we can spend outdoors. If you’re purchasing supplements, it’s important not to buy more than you need to help keep supplies of supplements available for everyone.” While PHE’s advice is in reference to maintaining muscle and bone health, some researchers have previously called for vitamin D supplementation specifically in vulnerable groups in the hopes of enhancing resistance to COVID-19... Read more

The USDA’s emergency benefit increases have reached US$2 billion per month for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households across the US. The USDA says these benefits, which are touted as increasing food security during the pandemic, represent a 40 percent increase in overall monthly SNAP benefits, significantly increasing food purchasing power for US families. However, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) has branded USDA’s messaging as “misleading,” with 40 percent of SNAP households set to see no SNAP increases because they were already receiving the maximum amount prior to the emergency declaration. According to the CSPI, these are the poorest households and the most in need of expanded food assistance.

April 22

The restrictions necessitated by COVID-19 have created difficult financial situations across the nutrition industry, including in the US, where 95 percent of natural products businesses have had their small business loans applications rejected. This is according to a Natural Products Association (NPA) survey of its member companies’ experiences with the US Paycheck Protection Program. Established by the federal government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program is struggling to distribute funds and putting companies under pressure to remain open. Meanwhile, the nutrition industry continues to push for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to include dietary supplements as a “medical expense.” It says that this would ultimately encourage a proactive, preventive approach to maintaining health and immunity during these turbulent times... Read more

On the 50th Earth Day, the globe finds itself facing truly unprecedented challenges, with COVID-19 throwing consumers’ impact on the planet into sharp relief. However, the nutrition industry has produced various solutions to the climate conservation challenge from environmentally sustainable ingredient sourcing and saving resources to raising awareness. NutritionInsight speaks to key players in this space to find out how industry is answering the call to what may be the greatest challenge of our time... Read more

Glanbia is withdrawing its financial guidance issued in February as a result of the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19’s duration and impact. “The COVID-19 pandemic is a human tragedy and our priorities are to protect our people, provide essential food supplies and maintain our strong financial position. Our nutritious products and ingredients are essential for our consumers and, to-date, all of our plants have largely operated to plan and maintained supply. As an essential service, the food industry has a critical role to play and we are very focused on continuing to serve our consumers, customers and communities through this global crisis,” says Siobhán Talbot, Group Managing Director. The global nutrition group otherwise reports a “good” 2020 Q1, growing revenues by 17 percent versus the prior year. 

The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned three clinics’ advertising claims on websites and in social media, which implied intravenous (IV) drip treatments could prevent or treat COVID-19. All of the treatments contained high doses of vitamin C, with some also containing other nutrients such as zinc, amino acids and vitamin B12. The watchdog fast-tracked the investigations as part of its focus on prioritizing and tackling ads that exploit the public’s health-related anxieties surrounding the current crisis. The claims included “protect yourself from infection” and “a good way to boost your immune system and protect yourself from viral infections.”

The UN is warning that famines of “biblical proportion” are looming, with David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP), stating that the current situation is the “perfect storm.” He notes that 135 million people already face crisis levels of hunger or worse, and the pandemic is bringing a further 130 million to the edge of starvation. Beasley is urging all involved parties to provide “swift and unimpeded” humanitarian access to vulnerable communities and for coordinated action to support life-saving assistance. He is also calling for US$350 million in new funding to set up a network of logistics hubs to keep worldwide humanitarian supply chains moving. 

April 21

COVID-19 is kick-starting a broad range of industry changes as people’s  lives and how they purchase goods has undergone a massive overhaul. With brick-and-mortar retailers around the world closing, e-commerce has suddenly become the default, with companies including Nestlé Health Science (NHSc) rapidly expanding their reaches. NHSc will scale up a number of its brands on a global scale, thanks to its partnership with The Hut Group’s technology services division, THG Ingenuity, which will deliver a fully serviced e-commerce platform... Read more

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidelines to detect iron deficiency and overload to prevent severe consequences, such as anemia and poor cognitive development in children. From an industry perspective, the updated guidelines shed light on the understanding of ferritin as an analytical parameter. PharmaLinea and Lubrizol Life Science tell NutritionInsight what the new guidelines mean for them… Read more

DuPont is taking a range of actions to address macroeconomic uncertainty driven by the global outbreak of COVID-19. “Our team is meeting the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19, all while delivering solid financial results for the first quarter of 2020,” says Ed Breen, Executive Chairman and CEO. “However, as this pandemic expands globally, the uncertainty around demand in select end-markets continues. In response, we continue to advance initiatives to improve our working capital. We have also taken steps to delay certain capital investments and idle production at several manufacturing sites. We will remain agile, continuing to take swift, prudent actions as conditions continue to evolve.” The company has also committed financing in place to bridge its debt maturing in November 2020 to the receipt of the special cash payment for the Nutrition & Biosciences and IFF transaction.

Denmark-based Lactosan has flagged both continental and intercontinental issues to its deliveries as container and trailer availability is affected. Additionally, it is grappling with reduced capacity, border restrictions or temporarily closed shipping lanes. As a result, all delivery dates are subject to final confirmation as the situation develops hour by hour. However, the company is in close contact with its raw material suppliers, as well as forwarding agents to closely monitor the “extraordinary force majeure” situation.

OmniActive is deploying a range of initiatives to deliver solutions for various rising needs as well as to provide relief for those who are most vulnerable to their effects. These moves include providing meals for daily-wage laborers through Rotary clubs, funding rations for village councils near plants, and providing farming communities with soap and education related to COVID-19. The company says it is also ensuring its supply chain remains intact, with its facilities running on strict social distancing and hygiene controls.

April 20

Consumers’ fear of COVID-19 may take its toll on mental health and consequently compromise the immune system. This is according to Dr. Sybille Buchwald-Werner, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Vital Solutions, who tells NutritionInsight how the company’s flagship ingredients can help alleviate stress and anxiety in these trying times, even as supply chains are affected. Other investigations into nutrients and mood patterns may also provide new ways to address consumers’ rapidly evolving needs... Read more

The US state of Oregon is adopting stricter measures to crack down on products featuring unsubstantiated claims about COVID-19. This comes as the US FDA continues to warn companies for these practices on a regular basis, with one case now escalating into a temporary injunction. Meanwhile, access to ample food continues to be a concern, with the US Department of Agriculture announcing the US$19 billion Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, which will help keep vulnerable groups fed... Read more

Governor Jared Polis of Colorado has ordered the closure of health food stores, which the Natural Products Association (NPA) says is contrary to guidance from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The move could restrict consumers’ access to essential products, including water, electrolytes, nutritional supplements and healthy food options. “Governor Polis’s decision is inconsistent with the federal government and other states and amounts to an assault on small businesses. We hope that is not the Governor’s intention since he chaired the Dietary Supplement Caucus during his congressional days, so it’s unclear as to why his latest order singled out such businesses as non-essential, he understands we’re regulated as foods,” says Daniel Fabricant, President and CEO of NPA.

Sports nutrition company Ascent is supporting those impacted by COVID-19 through the creation of the Gym Relief Fund and contributions to other initiatives. During the month of April, Ascent is donating 15 percent of purchases back to participating gyms – of which there are currently nearly 300. It is also supporting United in Movement, an online fitness challenge for participants of all skill levels, created to raise relief funds to support humanitarian efforts, businesses and gyms impacted by COVID-19. Ascent will be donating silent auction items, including a signed Ascent Athlete Christian McCaffrey football, US$1000 toward a CrossFit gym membership and a variety of its products.

April 17

Lonza’s Q1 report reveals the company has maintained a positive performance in Q1 2020, despite the challenging economic environment and operating conditions. Albert Baehny, Chairman and CEO ad interim, says: “We have been fortunate not to suffer from any major disruptions to business continuity caused by challenges to supply. Moreover, our business is supported by a strong level of liquidity. This means that we are currently able to continue as planned with our key strategic projects and long-term investments, all of which contribute to support our future success.”... Read more

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues its path of destruction around the world, many experts are flagging the devastating impact it is likely to have on less economically developed countries. Malnutrition is at the forefront as even affluent countries struggle to ease supply chain issues caused by stockpiling. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the African Union (AU) and international partners are joining forces to minimize the impact of a lockdown in Africa, where one in five are already going hungry. Meanwhile, Robin Chater, Secretary-General of The Federation of International Employers (FedEE), tells NutritionInsight that the focus on the coronavirus pandemic has detracted from child malnutrition... Read more

The US FDA’s Deputy Commissioner for Food Policy and Response, Frank Yiannas, is reassuring the public that there is no nationwide shortage of food. “These shortages are temporary because of unprecedented consumer demand, not a lack of the food system’s ability to produce, process and deliver food. There is plenty of food; it’s just not in all the right places based on disruptions to supply chains and markets. We continue to advise consumers that there is no need to buy more food than you need for a week or two for your family,” he states. He also stresses that there is no evidence that food or food packaging is associated with the transmission of COVID-19.

April 16

Chr. Hansen Group’s US subsidiary, Chr. Hansen Inc., is launching an online platform providing inspirational and educational content on probiotics and the human microbiome. Dubbed “The Probiotics Institute,” the platform targets healthcare professions and consumers in the US, while aiming to demystify probiotics and their effects as the market – and accompanying misconceptions – continues to balloon. This launch comes at a time when many are investigating the connection between gut health and immunity in light of COVID-19... Read more

April 15

Eicosapentaenoic acid free fatty acid (EPA-FFA) and extract from Artemisia annua (also known as sweet wormwood) are being investigated in the fight against COVID-19. EPAspire, the drug candidate of KD Pharma and its partner, SLA Pharma, is soon entering clinical trials as a promising candidate to treat patients with symptoms of the novel coronavirus infection. Meanwhile, ArtemiLife is collaborating with the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces to test Artemisia annua plant extract and artemisinin (an anti-malarial drug) derivatives in laboratory cell studies... Read more

Personalized vitamin subscription program Persona, a Nestlé Health Science (NHSc) company, is giving 1,000 health care workers three months of free personalized vitamins delivered to their doorsteps. Eligible workers include providers, administration and staff. They are invited to complete a brief questionnaire to receive the supply of vitamins. 

The SupplySide East 2020 trade show, which had already been postponed from April until late June, has now been canceled until 2021. A contributing factor is that the Meadowlands Expo Center in New Jersey, US, is serving as a temporary hospital and it is unclear how long the facility will be required for this use. “While team SupplySide hopes that our entire country is well on the mend by late June, we believe the decision to cancel the 2020 event is the best course of action. Our focus now is on supporting the many businesses and people who make up this industry as we navigate today’s challenges together,” says Jon Benninger, Vice President and Market Leader for SupplySide. The event’s team is now set to offer digital opportunities for visitors and exhibitors that allow the continuation of personal connection, innovation discovery and product development to continue. Other trade shows have also been going digital, with NutritionInsight speaking to leading players earlier this month to find out what can be expected... Read more

April 14

The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) has reported a host of COVID-19-related supply chain issues within the herbal ingredients sphere to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). These were submitted by AHPA member companies and refer to shortages and delivery disruptions for a variety of ingredients, supplies and services. In light of this, AHPA is collecting supply chain data to inform industry and government, and is inviting companies to complete a relevant survey to aid with the endeavor... Read more

Lycored is encouraging industry professionals to write an anonymous note of encouragement, appreciation or general positivity to a stranger. These letters will then be printed and included in meals being delivered to seniors and homeless people. This is the result of an initiative with Food4hungry.org, one of the largest food banks in California and situated near to where Lycored grows tomatoes for its range of natural wellness products. For every “note of nourishment” that is written, Lycored will add fresh fruit or vegetables to a delivery.

Since the COVID-19 lockdown came into effect in the UK, 1.5 million people, or 3 percent of the population, have gone a whole day without eating, according to new research from the Food Foundation. The Food Foundation is now demanding that the UK government scales up the national food response and establishes a National Food Aid Task Force to support local authorities in providing nutritious food parcels for self-isolating households. In a bid to reduce childhood hunger, the UK Department of Education has agreed to extend free school meal entitlement to some families who have No Recourse to Public Funds.

April 13

Spanish-based Biosearch Life has donated 2100 units of Hereditum Immunactiv K8 product samples in capsules to the Health Department of the Community of Madrid for distribution in nursing homes. This strain has demonstrated it can help boost the immune system and tackle viral infections affecting the respiratory system, the company highlights.

April 10

The US FDA has determined that additional protections are needed for any investigational use of fecal microbiota for transplantation (FMT) in light of the potential risk of COVID-19 transmission. It is no longer permissible to use FMT products manufactured from stool donated on or after December 1, 2019, until additional screening and testing procedures and changes to the informed consent process are implemented for such stool donations. These include stool donor screening, testing of the stool donation or stool donor, and conveying to the FMT recipient that healthy, asymptomatic stool donors may potentially be infected with COVID-19.

All Mérieux NutriSciences laboratories currently remain fully operational as the business maintains its essential business status. The US-based company says that it is implementing all necessary measures to reduce the spread of the virus and that its top focus is to ensure that it meets customer needs while keeping its employees and communities safe. 

April 9

Probiotics player Probi says the global probiotics market is pegged for growth as consumer interest in immunity is on the rise in light of the COVID-19 outbreak. This is detailed in its annual financial report, where CEO Tom Rönnlund states that the company hasn’t seen the growth and profits it expected in recent years. Rönnlund, who took over as CEO in January 2019, says that the company also seeks to further expand its reach in emerging markets such as Asia, and is evaluating possibilities for strategic collaborations... Read more

Bayer is donating around €1 million (US$1.07 million) to fight the pandemic in Spain under its comprehensive aid package. A sum of €800,000 (US$856,000) will go to the national health system for the purchase of urgently needed medical equipment and hospital beds. Further contributions of more than €100,000 (US$107,000) include the donation of test equipment to one of the research centers of Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), as well as to support the “Coronavirus Emergency in Spain” program of the Red Cross.

The US FDA has sent three more warning letters to sellers of fraudulent COVID-19 products, as part of the agency’s effort to protect both people and pets. With these warning letters, the FDA is exercising its authority to protect consumers and animals from companies selling unapproved products with false or misleading claims during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fraudulent offerings include chlorine dioxide products, those for pets and misbranded CBD products. 

April 8

COVID-19 is spurring the rapid personalization of sports nutrition as gyms around the world are increasingly shut and sporting gatherings are banned. This could provide an extra opportunity for companies to stand out from the crowd, which is crucial as the mainstreaming of sports nutrition has led to heightened competition within the sector. Key movers in the industry detail the “massive transformation” of what was once considered a niche category, and why differentiation has never been more important... Read more

While there is no substitute for medical care and taking measures such as handwashing and social distancing, many consumers are still seeking to strengthen their immune systems. NutritionInsight takes a closer look at how zinc has emerged as a so-called hot ingredient on the market, thanks to its contribution to both the innate and adaptive immune systems, which are the body’s first and second lines of defenses, respectively... Read more

A petition started by staff of UK-based health food chain Holland & Barrett is pleading for the stores to close their doors. The petition has already racked up thousands of signatures and states that “stores need to be closed, so we not only keep ourselves [the staff] safe but also the nation. Being on the front lines, dealing with customers day in and day out, increases the chances of the virus spreading rapidly. The company has not been providing us hand washes, anti-bacterial gels and other forms of protection to reduce the chance of catching the virus.”

US supplement industry associations are applauding the FDA for warning marketers who make illegal and unsubstantiated drug claims related to COVID-19. The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA), Consumer Healthcare Products Association, Council for Responsible Nutrition and the United Natural Products Alliance support the responsible sale and use of vitamins, minerals, herbs and other dietary supplements. AHPA notes that as industry faces the threat of this global pandemic, illegal and unsubstantiated drug claims misdirect consumers toward ineffective products, divert them from seeking critical medical care and endanger the public health. “While research supports the use of certain dietary supplements to maintain healthy immune system responses, we are not aware of any clinical research studies that demonstrate the efficacy of using a dietary supplement specifically to prevent or to treat COVID-19,” AHPA adds. 

Kemin Industries has launched a US$1 million bonus program for North American employees required to work on-site at Kemin facilities during the pandemic. Many of the essential jobs include handling inventory and equipment, production, research requiring a laboratory, security, facilities, process transactions and those who facilitate the ability of other workers to do their jobs remotely. “We could not do [our vital work] without the many individuals who show up to work every day, seven days a week, even as they manage the same uncertainty and stress surrounding us all during this unprecedented time,” says Dr. Chris Nelson, President and CEO. 

April 7

The COVID-19 pandemic will lead to “long-lasting” changes in popular attitudes surrounding immune health. This is according to John Quilter, Vice President and General Manager at Kerry, who discusses the main drivers behind interest in immunity with NutritionInsight. Under the Wellmune brand, the company has carried out a survey of over 11,000 consumers in 14 different countries, which revealed the importance of scientific-backing and transparency on any lifestyle product... Read more

As demand for hand sanitizers and soaps is rising in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, major personal care players are making charitable moves to help ameliorate the crisis. After the FDA’s guidance allowing alcohol companies to produce hand sanitizers, a slew of brands also joined the bandwagon. Personal care organizations such as the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) are maintaining that the situation is well monitored and that industry is coordinating efforts... Read more

Evonik is postponing its annual shareholders’ meeting to August 31, 2020. The company states that due to current circumstances in Germany, it is not possible to hold the annual shareholders’ meeting as planned on May 27, 2020 in Essen. The form in which the meeting can be held on the new date will depend on the course of the pandemic and the measures imposed by the relevant authorities. As a result of the postponement, the resolution on the distribution of the profit for 2019 will be delayed.

April 6

Eyal Shalmon, CEO of Yemoja, is confident of the microalgae company’s stability. “In general, we think that nutraceuticals markets have not been affected by COVID-19. On the contrary, we hear that finished goods producers are stocking up with inventory. Since we grow our own strains, we are able to fully control our supply chain and guarantee clean, trusted ingredients.” He also tells NutritionInsight about the start-up’s new platform for cultivating customized, pharmaceutical grade microalgae on demand... Read more

As a result of staying home to “flatten the COVID-19 curve,” more consumers are cooking more as eating out is no longer a viable option. On the other end of the spectrum, food delivery services are another flourishing option with many companies marketing healthy meal kits and indulgent flavors to appeal to consumers. NutritionInsight examines how one can maintain a healthy diet during confinement, as well as the healthy delivery options... Read more

BioGaia’s Board of Directors has revised the dividend proposal as a consequence of the increased uncertainty coming from the spread of COVID-19. The revised proposal implies that the ordinary dividend of SEK 3.75 (US$0.36) per share will be maintained, while the previously proposed extra dividend of SEK 4.25 (US$0.41) per share is canceled. The revision should be seen as a precautionary measure in the light of increased uncertainty regarding the global economic outlook, states the company. The Board of Directors intends to revisit the issue of a potential extra dividend later in the year once a better overview of the pandemic has been obtained.

Health food stores in Nevada, US, have been closed. The order from Governor Steve Sisolak will restrict access to a wide range of products sold by health food stores, including water, electrolytes, nutritional supplements, healthy food options and other health-related products such as hand sanitizer, flags the Natural Products Association (NPA). This is despite prior guidance from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which the NPA has previously interpreted as allowing health food stores to remain open... Read more

April 3

Global upheaval as cases of COVID-19 reach the million-mark has revitalized consumer interest in immunity. Activity in this space has flourished as people look to ways to bolster their immune system, with vitamin C emerging as an area of particular intrigue. NutritionInsight speaks to experts who flag vitamin C-related supply chain challenges, shipment delays and increased prices amid booming demand... Read more

US-based Natural Products Association (NPA) is offering its assistance with the production and distribution of medical supplies and products. In a letter to US Vice President Mike Pence, NPA states that its manufacturers and distributors have the FDA, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and state and local inspection requirements to produce not only dietary supplements, but also drugs and other FDA-regulated commodities. “Whether we are producing dietary supplements, foods or drugs, we do so meeting and exceeding all required quality requirements, which is of the utmost importance in this time of need,” states Daniel Fabricant, NPA President and CEO. 

April 2

The spread of COVID-19 has led many industry events to take the digital route, with some praising these initiatives, while others flag the lack of face-to-face interaction with key contacts. Vitafoods is the latest trade show to go digital, and will be hosting a Digital Week, May 11-15, 2020, dedicated to “supporting and inspiring” the nutraceutical industry by giving exclusive access to the latest science, insight and trends. NutritionInsight speaks to leading players, including Lubrizol Life Science, AstaReal, Euromed and Pharmactive to find out what can be expected from the event, as well as whether such an effort can prove beneficial for industry and may even become the norm... Read more

Biosearch Life’s centers in Talayuela, Peñafiel and Madrid are included in Spain’s list of “essential” activities, meaning the activity of the centers has not changed. They operate under CNAE-2110, Manufacture of Basic Pharmaceutical Products. Meanwhile the Granada center is manufacturing food products – another essential activity – as well as experimental R&D in biotechnology. The latter activity has certain functions that are related and essential to be able to continue producing and that are directly linked to production, meaning that Biosearch Life’s production will be maintained. 

The FDA is providing flexibility to chain restaurants and similar retail food establishments in terms of nutrition labeling. Generally the FDA requires restaurants with 20 or more locations to provide nutrition information (including calorie declarations) for standard items on menus and menu boards. However, many establishments are changing business practices, for example switching to takeout only. Additionally, temporary disruptions in the food supply chain may lead to different menus or substitutions that could affect the accuracy of the nutrition information. Therefore, the FDA will not object if establishments do not meet menu labeling requirements during this public health emergency.

April 1

The FDA and FTC have issued warning letters to three more companies selling fraudulent products with claims to prevent, treat, mitigate, diagnose or cure COVID-19. Halosense sells salt therapy products, which the FDA says have “misleading claims that the products are safe or effective for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19.” Bioactive C60/FullerLifeC60 sold “FullerLifeC60,” with misleading claims that it can build up immunity to help treat or prevent COVID-19 in consumers. Finally, JRB Enterprise Group Inc. DBA Anti Aging Bed offers colloidal silver products with claims that the products are safe or effective for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. 

Lallemand’s annual biotech seminar is postponed to a future date, which will be communicated as soon as possible. The seminar was connected to the International Conference on Microbial Food & Feed Ingredients (MiFFI), which has also been postponed. The company is maintaining its decision to go with the same set-up as originally planned, meaning it will organize its biotech seminar to be in the same week and same location as the MiFFI event.

People living in Colorado, US, who have been laid off work as a result of the pandemic will be offered free cannabidiol (CBD) samples by NewLeaf Brands in partnership with Herbfluence and OnTheHouse App. The sample pack will include three bags of TeaLief's CBD infused tea, a seven-day pack of ReLyfe’s 25 mg CBD softgels and a free Kured 500 mg disposable vape pen, an information package on the benefits of CBD and a list of the NewLead Brands’ various product offerings. “I hope that this product offering will help those suffering from any anxiety during this difficult time,” says Benjamin Martch, CMO of NewLeaf Brands. 

March 31

Northwell Health, New York state’s largest healthcare provider, is administering large doses of vitamin C to some COVID-19 patients in its hospitals. A spokesperson for Northwell Health tells NutritionInsight that the provider is “exploring many therapies at this time, including utilizing vitamin C.” While the spokesperson declined to elaborate, the New York Post reports that intensive-care patients are immediately receiving 1,500 mg of intravenous vitamin C, which is then re-administered three or four times a day. The news comes as a clinical trial with vitamin C is underway in China, examining to what extent coronavirus symptoms can be treated... Read more

The German Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, Heinrich Hertz Institute (HHI), is contributing to the development of a smartphone app within the upcoming weeks in a bid to digitally trace coronavirus infections. By temporarily registering cell phone users with ID numbers, a centralized data system could provide fast and efficient contact tracking of people who come within a 2 meter radius of each other for longer than 15 minutes. Should a user receive a coronavirus diagnosis, they can send their data to the server and all persons the initial diagnosed person came in contact with will be notified. Contact persons must then inform their local health authorities, as their personal identities are not linked to the app. Although HHI is working in full compliance with GDPR and the app will not use CPS or any other location detection services, some concerns around data privacy invasion remain.

The UK government has announced that schools will provide children eligible for free school meals with a weekly shopping voucher worth £15 (US$18) to spend at supermarkets while institutions are closed. Schools can continue to provide meals for collection or delivery themselves, but where this is not possible, the scheme will allow schools to provide vouchers to families electronically, or as a gift card for those without internet access.

March 30

Henry Lamotte Oils states that the globe has yet to reach the height of the pandemic. At both European and international levels, the company expects an increase in the disruption of both business and logistical processes and states that it will not be possible to compensate for these interruptions in the short-term. The company assumes that the general stability of its supply chains is not currently at risk, but notes that the availability of products and cargo spaces could fluctuate. This will mean that market prices and cargo rates will follow suit.  

Due to new restrictions in Spain, Nektium is pausing its activities and closing its facilities with immediate effect. The nutraceutical company says that this will last until the measures, which have closed all businesses not considered to be primary need, are lifted. This is currently planned for April 13. In the meantime, Nektium will maintain minimum services with a team working remotely.

The European Society for Clinical Nutrition & Metabolism (ESPEN) 2020 Congress is maintaining September 19-22 as the meeting date in Lyon, France. However, ESPEN is extending the abstract submission deadline from April 15 to May 6. The society recognizes that healthcare professionals are especially affected by the pandemic and that many people may have to deal with different professional and possibly personal priorities.

The ongoing spread of COVID-19 is compelling society to reexamine the relationship it has with food security. Children who rely on government-subsidized school meals are particularly affected by shortfalls in the supply chain as schools around the world have been closing their doors. Both the US and the UK have taken steps to ensure that vulnerable children stay fed even out of school, although some organizations warn that these measures are not comprehensive... Read more

Roquette, which traditionally specializes in plant-based ingredients, has adapted one of its pilot lines in France to manufacture an hydro-alcoholic disinfectant solution. The production started last week and the first shipment has now been sent, free of charge, to the Lille University Hospital Center, to the French Blood Donors Organization and to other local health facilities. While this type of solution is not usually produced by Roquette, the company adjusted one of its R&D pilot units and obtained the required regulatory approvals to produce the hydro-alcoholic solution. The company will produce 5,000 L of this solution per week as a first step. 500 L will be used internally to strengthen the existing measures put in place to protect employees and contractors working at company’s sites. This will allow the continuity of its operations.

The British Nutrition Foundation’s (BNF) education program for schools has launched a remote learning hub with free cross-curricular resources and activities for primary and secondary school pupils studying at home. The Food – a fact of life (FFL) Classroom focuses on key food themes within curriculum areas, such as where food comes from, cooking and healthy eating, but also offers a range of opportunities for cross-curricular learning. “Food affects everyone, and food and nutrition education should remain an integral part of your child’s school day, even during these strange times. By working together, we can help ensure UK pupils stay engaged, entertained and enthusiastic over the coming weeks and months, while helping to protect ourselves from the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Roy Ballam, Managing Director and Head of Education at BNF. 

March 28

The FDA reports that there are currently no widespread disruptions reported in the US supply chain. “Empty grocery shelves are largely due to unprecedented demand – not a lack of capacity to produce, process and deliver. Manufacturers and retailers are working around the clock to replenish shelves,” the agency highlights. It also says that it is in close contact with industry and its trade associations, which are in touch with their members about supply chain issues.

March 27

Probiotic company BioGaia notes that while sales are up, the company sees some challenges in logistics. “2020 is a year that started with unease and uncertainty. We are closely following global developments related to the coronavirus. At the same time, 2020 is the year we celebrate BioGaia’s 30th anniversary. We do this with both pride in what we have achieved and high ambitions for the future,” Isabelle Ducellier, President and CEO, tells NutritionInsight as the firm launches its annual review... Read more

The FDA is granting temporary flexibility to restaurants and food manufacturers in the nutritional labeling of certain packaged foods. The new rule will allow consumers to directly buy some food not labeled for retail sale, as many restaurants may have purchased ingredients no longer suitable for restaurant food preparation. In some cases, the FDA will not object if a packaged food lacks a Nutrition Facts label, provided other information demands are met... Read more

Givaudan is establishing the Givaudan COVID-19 Communities Fund to enable its sites to support to local affected communities. The company is donating at least CHF 1 million (US$1.03 million) to this fund. Givaudan employees will then be able to nominate communities, charities, or services that are in need of additional support. Medical and other essential supplies, support and expertise, and other funding and services will be benefited by the fund. 

The US-based Natural Products Association (NPA) is applauding the bipartisan economic stimulus package passed by Congress and signed by President Donald Trump. The package includes US$17 billion for the Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover six months of payments for small businesses with existing loans, and US$562 to ensure that the SBA has the resources to provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to businesses that need relief. Meanwhile, US$10 billion is set aside for emergency grants of up to US$10,000 for immediate relief for operating costs.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has launched the COVID-19 Nutrition Resource Center to offer guidance to the public about grocery shopping, healthful eating, recipes, food safety and more. For health professionals, the Academy's member website contains news and updates, including how registered dietitian nutritionists can use telemedicine services to consult with clients online. “The COVID-19 situation is dynamic, and each day brings new developments and challenges,” says Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Academy Spokesperson Vandana Sheth. “It has affected virtually every aspect of society on a global scale. This country’s nutrition and dietetics practitioners are no exception, both in serving our patients and clients and as residents of our communities. Protecting the health and safety of the public and our members remains at the forefront of all our work.”

March 26

An immediate investigation into the safety and protective functions of breast milk as it relates to the coronavirus pandemic has been initiated by the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego) and the Family Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation (FLRF). FLRF has donated CHF 100,000 (US$102,000) to initiate studies addressing whether COVID-19 is transmitted via breast milk and whether breast milk can protect infants from COVID-19. The researchers also hope to identify human milk bioactives that help protect the body from the virus. This knowledge may then potentially be leveraged to develop novel antiviral therapeutics... Read more

The Co-CEOs of Royal DSM have stated that “these are unprecedented and challenging times for everyone but some things do not change, especially our unrelenting commitment to health and safety. That is why we have in place extra measures over and above our usual protocols to protect our people, their families, and the wider community.” They also highlight that the company is distributing immunity-boosting vitamins and nutrients to first responders and health care professionals, to support the well-being of those on the front line of this crisis. DSM has also converted a manufacturing facility to produce disinfectant at scale, which is being donated to nearby hospitals. 

Amano Enzyme says that frequent communication with its supply chain is ensuring the production and supply of its enzymes. Its domestic and international production networks are fully operating and the Japan-based company has adequate inventory. Thus, it does not anticipate any issues regarding deliveries to its customers. However, it will continue to take necessary measures to maintain deliveries, and will contact customers as soon as possible upon foreseeable change.

March 25

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has donated US$10 million to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund, created by the United Nation Foundation and the World Health Organization. Among its objectives, the fund will enable distribution of essential supplies such as personal protective equipment to health workers. Meanwhile, GSK Consumer Healthcare is prioritising actions in its supply chain to deliver more products that are in high demand, due to the coronavirus. This includes increasing production for multi-vitamins and dietary supplements such as Emergen-C and Centrum.

March 24

US-based Cardax is seeking strategic collaborations to develop astaxanthin for the treatment of COVID-19. A new white paper from the biopharmaceutical company lays out the potential role of the carotenoid in fighting the pandemic. According to Cardax, astaxanthin may hold promise for boosting the immune system and reducing the extreme inflammatory response that may lead to severe respiratory complications in subjects with COVID-19. However, the move has been met with caution from other companies in the space, who warn that the proposal could be “premature.”... Read more

Seppic has activated its Business Continuity Plan (BCP), which covers activities including sales administration, supply chain, manufacturing, commercial activities, marketing and innovation, and finance. The chemicals company says that it has monitored any suppliers that could be impacted since the start of the outbreak. It has thus ensured that safety stocks are sufficient to face potential supply difficulties, and suppliers are not meaningfully impacted in their operations. 

UK-based natural health company BetterYou is experiencing a slight delay in dispatching orders to consumers. It says that this is due to exceptionally high demand and changes to its operating procedures in response to current government guidelines. Additionally, to ensure it can meet the needs of all customers, it is limiting the number of products allowed to be ordered per customer across some immunity products. 

Catalent’s operating facilities are set to remain open and continue to deliver to the company’s customers their patients. The company states that this is in light of many governments of the countries it operates in recognizing the work as essential. The company has also expanded safety stocks of raw materials and Personal Protective Equipment across its network, and is continuously monitoring its suppliers’ stock levels to assure future deliveries.

March 23

Guidance from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will likely allow health food stores and supplement manufacturers to remain open. Meanwhile, supermarkets and other retailers are also taking steps to ensure that consumers will continue to have access to essential foods... Read more

Sibelius Natural Products says that notwithstanding the critical situation, the company wants to guarantee its customers and partners that enough supplies of its ingredients will be available worldwide. The company has implemented safety measures to keep its laboratories working with the maximum normality that the situation allows. Its employees are also working from home, with meetings rescheduled to be convened online. 

Volac states that there is “no doubt we are living in difficult times.” Its role in the dairy supply chain means it has been categorized as an essential business and the company says it is constantly assessing what is occurring, maintaining a flexible, comprehensive approach and carefully following expert health guidance and practical measures. Volac also notes that stockpiling will create additional challenges, and appeals to all customers to avoid this practice. 

March 20

It may become more difficult for consumers to receive nutritional products, such as supplements, due to a shift in Amazon’s policy. The mail-order giant is temporarily prioritizing household staples, medical supplies and other high-demand products coming into its fulfillment centers. Meanwhile, UK-based health food retailer Holland & Barrett is implementing consumer purchase limits in a bid to ensure there is enough to go around... Read more

March 19

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has temporarily postponed all domestic routine surveillance facility inspections to protect the health of its staff during the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. This will apply to all FDA-regulated products, including food, drugs, biological products and devices... Read more

In light of the difficulties assessing the impact of COVID-19 at the current time, Hochdorf Group’s Board of Directors and Group Management have agreed a sales and revenue range for the 2020 business year. This was detailed in the Switzerland-based company’s financial results, which also revealed a net sales revenue of CHF 456.8 million (US$465 million) in 2019, which is almost 19 percent down from 2018... Read more

March 18

As consumers continue to stockpile goods, nutritionists warn that they may be hoarding processed, unhealthy foods or products that may reach their expiration date soon and pose yet another risk to consumers’ health. Experts also flag that stockpiling foods may lead to hurdles in the supply chain and food shortages that may impact vulnerable demographics... Read more

March 17

Lonza is set to proceed with its ambitious growth plans, including investing in new capacity, the expansion of its value chain and geographic coverage. This is despite the industry-wide complications caused by the spread of COVID-19. “The current situation with COVID-19 serves to highlight how important our health is and maintaining a healthy immune system is on top of everyone’s minds – our ResistAid supplement is an example of what we can offer consumers,” says Claude Dartiguelongue, Head of Consumer Health Ingredients... Read more

Three new dates have been arranged for CPhI events originally scheduled in Japan, Southeast Asia and North America as COVID-19 continues to create chaos on events and planning. While the virus continues to take its toll on global industries, the new calendar provides companies the necessary time to gather its strength and simultaneously provides industry with certainty and clarity regarding future events... Read more

March 16

A US$5 million fund has been established to support emerging brands significantly affected by Natural Products Expo West 2020, which has now been canceled entirely. The organizers are shifting focus toward Natural Products Expo East 2020, to be held in Philadelphia, US, in September. Originally, Expo West – due to take place earlier this month – was set to be pushed back to this summer in light of the spread of COVID-19. It is not yet clear how the fund will be dispersed... Read more

March 13

DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences is embarking on a four-year project with the APC Microbiome Ireland SFI Research Centre to rebalance the gut bacteria of babies after antibiotics or caesarean-section births. However, the rise of COVID-19 could present a challenge for the fledgling collaboration, especially in terms of retaining their cohort. Catherine Stanton, Project Leader at APC Microbiome Ireland, tells NutritionInsight that maintaining a cohort of that size under any circumstances can be a challenge, let alone during a global health pandemic. However, she stresses that the cohort’s health is a major priority, although there may be a dip in activity... Read more

March 12

With vaccines potentially still a year away, the nutrition industry is looking inward to see if it can offer any potential treatments. While it is crucial to note that there is currently no cure for the virus and that the best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure to it, NutritionInsight takes a closer look at possible treatment pathways in the nutrition sector. There have already been investigations into possible antiviral properties of ingredients including fucoidan, coconut oil and oregano oil... Read more

March 11

Vitafoods Europe joins the list of industry trade shows that are postponed due to COVID-19. Following close consultation with its partners in the international nutraceutical industry, Vitafoods Europe has made the decision to reschedule this year’s event to September 1-3, 2020 at Palexpo, Geneva, Switzerland. In light of the news, NutritionInsight speaks to several of the event’s exhibitors, who have responded with mixed feelings on the topic, as it delays launches and operations... Read more

March 10

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have warned seven companies for selling products claiming to prevent or treat COVID-19. The offerings include teas, essential oils, tinctures and colloidal silver, with the companies now subject to legal action, including but not limited to seizure or injunction. The FDA is concerned that products that claim to cure, treat or prevent serious diseases like COVID-19 may cause consumers to delay or stop appropriate medical treatment, leading to serious and life-threatening harm... Read more

Industry expects growth in global consumer demand for supplements amid the COVID-19 outbreak, according to PharmaLinea Chairman and Founder, Blaž Gorjup. In an exclusive interview with NutritionInsight, Gorjup explains that even though new product launches are on hold due to the severity of the COVID-19 situation, the market is still seeing a boost in sales. He goes on to discuss how immunity is becoming increasingly popular in light of coronavirus-related concerns and how the supply chain is influenced, especially in China, with prices potentially going up for supplements... Read more

March 03

Several global food and beverage trade shows have been rescheduled or indefinitely postponed due to health concerns in light of COVID-19. Many companies are concerned about contracting the virus within typical event parameters – asymptomatic transmission via large crowds of people handshaking and food sampling within confined quarters. This has spiraled into a heated debate on social media regarding refund claims and booth compensation demands from both factions as it is still uncertain how attendees can make up for their investments in their exhibitions for the shows... Read more

March 02

Seasonal interest in bolstering immunity has been heightened this year as COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the world. While experts warn that some may take advantage of consumers by peddling “miracle cures,” some members of the industry have highlighted how a strong immune system is one element of fighting viruses. Kerry notes that clinical research has demonstrated its yeast beta-glucan Wellmune may help support upper respiratory tract infections, while Cymbiotika’s new silver supplement is touted as providing immune defense. However, the US-based Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) has warned of other silver dietary supplements that are misleading people seeking COVID-19 cures... Read more

February 14

Social media has seen the spread of speculation and rumors, including the supposed curative properties of everything from oregano to bleach. Further exacerbating this issue are some unscrupulous companies within the nutrition industry, peddling supplements claiming to “treat or prevent infection by the coronavirus.” As a result, organizations such as the Natural Products Association (NPA) are calling on governments to crack down on scammers and the misinformation deluge. NutritionInsight takes a closer look at the link between nutrition and coronavirus to narrow down to what extent diet can help better protect against such a virus... Read more

February 07
As the coronavirus continues its spread – both within China and around the world – it is taking a serious toll on the nutrition and personal care industries as supply chains and customers feel the threat. Nonetheless, many companies remain optimistic that the epidemic will pass quickly, leaving them relatively unscathed. Lonza has resumed production at the majority of its Chinese facilities, which had remained shut earlier this week. Meanwhile, L’Oréal has acknowledged that the epidemic will have a “temporary impact” on the beauty market in China, but expects that consumption will bounce back... Read more