Lonza targets joint health with organic UC-II undenatured collagen

21 Apr 2021 --- Lonza is releasing an organic addition to its line of UC-II undenatured collagen ingredients, answering what it says is the growing need for the “next generation of joint health ingredients.” 

The new UC-II supplement is certified as made with organic collagen and is Non-GMO Project Verified.

Speaking to NutritionInsight, Lonza’s product manager, Juliana Erickson, says the company’s work in expanding its collagen line targets many US consumers looking for natural product solutions. 

“For modern consumers, a preference for organic extends not only to the food they eat but also to their dietary supplement choices,” she says 

“The organic trend is growing alongside several complementary and converging consumer trends, which include a desire for easy-to-understand product labels, sustainable packaging and a preference for non-GMO, organic ingredients.”

Lonza’s organic UC-II collagen will be rolled out across the US, where it will be tested as an opportunity for global release. 

Aiding joints 
Currently, consumers looking for organic joint supplements only have the option of large pills that need to be taken multiple times a day, which is often inconvenient and represents a compliance challenge, according to Lonza. 

Click to EnlargeUC-II collagen has been proved to increase flexibility and reduce joint aches.The UC-II undenatured type II collagen seeks to address these issues by introducing a consumer-friendly, once-a-day dose. 

Lonza points to three clinical studies that have shown that just one 40 mg dose of UC-II undenatured type II collagen once a day supports joint comfort, mobility and flexibility. 

“We know that UC-II undenatured type II collagen works differently than other joint health ingredients. It triggers the immune system to rebuild and repair joint cartilage, and we are excited to now offer a non-GMO and organic option,” continues Erickson. 

Last year, Lonza flagged the need for functional supplements to deliver collagen products to consumers looking for joint relief. The company’s own research found strong growth for its products among aging populations. 

Growing organic collagen market 
Lonza says the launch is the first undenatured type II collagen in the organic dietary supplement space. 

Erickson notes that the organic supplement category is a US$1.7 billion market with a 10 percent growth rate, providing innovation opportunities for joint health brands.

According to Innova Market Insights, F&B launches featuring collagen are on the rise, which has seen average annual growth of 27 percent since 2015. Supplements continue to be the top market category, with 35 percent of 2019 launches featuring collagen. 

Lonza’s proprietary research indicates that 75 percent of organic supplement shoppers state that joint health is a top concern for them. Meanwhile, over 70 percent of dietary supplement consumers are likely to take joint health supplements. 

Industry going natural 
Erickson says the new product is ideal for helping manufacturers in the nutrition industry incorporate UC-II collagen consistently into their products. 

“Natural innovation often comes with more variation, and at Lonza, ensuring consistency in our quality is of the utmost importance,” says Erickson.  

UC-II non-GMO made with organic collagen helps product formulators reach 95 percent organic material in the finished product to comply with organic regulations and secure use of a USDA organic logo, she asserts. 

Verification by the Non-GMO Project ensures the validity of the Non-GMO claim and offers a high level of transparency in GMOs in the market. 

By Louis Gore-Langton

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