Weekly Roundup: US researchers granted Danisco Foundation Science Award, polyphenol-rich extract may improve declining senior cognition

19 Oct 2018 --- This week in nutrition, a study found that grape-blueberry extract may improve cognition in at-risk older adults. Pet medication and wellness company PetIQ completed its acquisition of pet supplement manufacturer HBH. The Danisco Foundation awarded two Science Excellence Awards for 2018 and the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) Botanical Raw Materials Committee launched a Sustainability Subcommittee. To mark its 40th “ruby” anniversary, plant-based ingredients company BI will be showcasing “ruby” colored beverages at SupplySide West 2018, in Las Vegas.

In brief: Research Studies
Grape-blueberry extract may improve cognition in at-risk older adults, a French study has found. Epidemiological studies have suggested that better nutritional habits are associated with lower rates of cognitive decline, and polyphenols in fruits and vegetables are associated specifically with better cognitive function in older adults. The study found that participants who took the grape-blueberry extract for six months exhibited significant improvement in verbal, episodic and recognition memory. The findings support the use of a polyphenol-rich extract of grape and blueberry for older adults who are beginning to experience cognitive decline.

In brief: Expansions, mergers and acquisitions
Pet medication and wellness company PetIQ has completed its acquisition of HBH Enterprises (HBH). The acquisition of HBH provides PetIQ with complete strategic control of its manufacturing organization, which  the company hopes will improve its business structure, enabling it to accelerate growth in the pet category.
 
In brief: Miscellaneous
The Danisco Foundation has awarded two Science Excellence Awards for 2018. The first medalist is Theresa Reineke, Ph.D., Distinguished McKnight University Professor of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Minnesota. She was awarded the DuPont Nutrition & Health Science Excellence Medal for her work in understanding the fundamentals of amorphous solid dispersions of poorly soluble drugs. Martin J. Blaser, M.D., Muriel G. and George W. Singer, Professor of Translational Medicine and Director of the New York University Human Microbiome Program were awarded the DuPont Nutrition & Health Microbiome Science Award. For over 30 years they have researched the role of the human microbiome and conducted studies on the relationship between the microbiome health and disease.
 
The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) Botanical Raw Materials Committee has launched a Sustainability Subcommittee to further AHPA’s ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable supplies of valuable botanicals. The subcommittee will be a vehicle for increasing awareness of sustainability issues and best practices, provide a forum to discuss and develop industry-wide standards, and promote existing sustainability initiatives throughout the industry.
 
To mark its 40th “ruby” anniversary, plant-based ingredients company BI will be showcasing “ruby” colored beverages at SupplySide West 2018 in Las Vegas. One beverage will feature apple cider vinegar in a lemonade mix, another will be lentil protein concentrate in a red velvet shake and the last will feature guayusa for energy. The company is inviting customers to come and join the team in celebrating 40 years of business.

The 5th International Conference on Resveratrol and Health began yesterday in China. Evolva’s Veri-te resveratrol is the sponsor of the conference. Each year, the conference gathers the reigning voices in resveratrol research, all of whom have a common goal of unlocking knowledge and understanding of resveratrol’s potential in supporting health and wellness. This year’s conference is expected to draw over 100 scientists invested in resveratrol research from around the globe. Key focuses will be as the influence of resveratrol on the microbiome; its role in supporting skin, cardiovascular and bone health; and its antioxidant properties and therapeutic potential.

The Scientific Director of Polaris is increasing his omega 3 supplementation as he prepares to take part in one of the world’s toughest yacht races. Gildas Breton is an experienced amateur yachtsman and will compete in next month’s Route du Rhum. Knowing the touted health benefits of omega 3s – which include higher quality sleep, reduced anxiety and improved cognition – Gildas has been increasing his supplementation in preparation for the grueling race. 

By Laxmi Haigh