Vitafoods 2024 preview: Nektium to launch new stress-relieving botanical extract

24 Apr 2024 --- Nektium will unveil its patent-pending Aframomum melegueta spice extract, Vanizem, at the upcoming global nutraceutical trade fair, Vitafoods Europe (May 14–16). A small dose of the sustainably sourced ingredient has been shown to reduce anxiety and elevate mood within days. 

Vanizem offers a distinct mechanism for stress management by modulating receptors and enzymes within the endocannabinoid system. This neuromodulatory system partially regulates cognitive and emotional processes in the central nervous system, such as behavior, mood and neurologic disorders. 

“Modern lifestyles have created challenges around work-life balance and the need for brain-mood and stress solutions,” Bruno Berheide, commercial and partnership director at Nektium, tells Nutrition Insight. 

“Sleep is another big issue for many consumers now. In response, there’s been a significant rise in the number of supplements targeted at stressed-out consumers.” 

The company utilizes its proprietary technology to maintain the stability of the extract’s main bioactive compound, total vanilloid, throughout its extraction and encapsulation processes. 

Grains of Paradise 
Innova Market Insights data indicates that 28% of global consumers were concerned over their mental health in 2023, while 36% believed that functional products could help them improve their mood and combat anxiety. 

Aframomum melegueta, also known as Grains of Paradise, is a species in the ginger family. Berheide highlights that Vanizem is “completely safe, natural and plant-based, helping consumers to relieve stress and elevate mood within days.” 

“We will reveal more information about the science behind Vanizem and its mechanism of action at our talk at the New Ingredients Theatre at Vitafoods (F184) at 1.30 pm on May 15.” 

At Nektium’s booth (E141), visitors can sample Vanizem in a capsule format. 

He adds: “There are many other potential application possibilities for the ingredient, and we’re ready to support formulators in this area.”

The extract of Aframomum melegueta spice helps consumers relieve stress and elevate their moods within days (Image credit: Nektium).Backed by science 
Berheide highlights that consumer demand for botanicals is gaining “significant traction.” 

“It’s often the case that consumers feel more comfortable taking natural, plant-based products daily over long periods rather than chemical-based supplements. Equally, they want reassurances that they are backed by science and that products are safe.” 

“The nutraceutical industry has made great strides in terms of transparency and ensuring the quality of botanical products in recent years. That’s something we’re strongly committed to as a company, and we’re very excited to be able to start sharing the benefits of Vanizem.” 

In addition to its latest botanical addition, Nektium will demonstrate how manufacturers can employ its existing portfolio across supplements. 

Botanical portfolio 
At Vitafoods, Nektium will also feature Rhodiolife, its Rhodiola rosea extract, which has been clinically proven to relieve stress and improve memory. Recently, the company cooperated with the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, to identify the anti-stress activities of the adaptogens Rhodiola rosea and Ashwagandha. 

Moreover, the company’s Mangifera indica (mango) extract, Zynamite, will also be displayed at the show. This fast-acting natural caffeine alternative helps to boost both mental and physical energy and focus. 

Earlier this year, a composition of this extract and quercetin (Zynamite PX) showed significant improvements in athletic performance in professional basketball players. 

Nektium also allows Vitafoods visitors to sample gummies and sticks with Zynamite S, a new water-soluble grade of its mango extract, and Rhodiolife gummies. 

By Jolanda van Hal