Prepared Foods and its NutraSolutions brand present this annual “Ingredients for Health” reference. It offers market data and information about commercially available ingredients that assist developers and formulators with products that target various health benefits. From ingredients such as chia seed and red tomato for antioxidant supplementation, to the colors, flavors and textures that make nutraceutical products attractive and palatable, this section offers a comprehensive range of new offerings.

The categories are as follows:

 

General ingredients

The response to consumer interest in naturalness and purity appears to be continuing, despite some adverse publicity about the definition of “natural.” More than one-fifth of food and drinks launches recorded by Innova Market Insights in 2012 were positioned as one or more of “natural” or “additive- and preservative-free” or “organic,” reflecting ongoing interest in natural ingredients and clean-labeling.  Interest in “free-from” products also appears to be increasing, with significant rises in numbers for gluten-free and lactose-free lines in 2012. The rise in GMO-free claims also is continuing, although on a smaller scale, as they currently still account for only just more than 1% of total launch activity worldwide, although rising higher in Europe and Australasia. In terms of products carrying GMO-free claims, snacks, dairy and bakery have the largest number of launches, reflecting the significance of genetically modified ingredients in sectors using high levels of cereals for food or feed.  Ethical and sustainability trends are also continuing to be reflected in new product activity. The rise in vegetarian launches predicted for 2012 did come about in real terms, but this type of claim featured on 8% of total 2012 launches, which was actually the same percentage as in 2011.

–Lu Ann Williams, Innova Market Insights,

helpdesk@innovami.com, www.innovadatabase.com         

 

 

Healthy Prostate, Bladder

Kemin describes new AssuriTEA Men’s Health as a proprietary formula of catechins and theaflavins that supports urological health—a top health concern for older men. With age, men are more at risk of an enlarged prostate; in some cases this results in unpleasant or bothersome symptoms commonly known as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). AssuriTEA Men’s Health is generally suitable for use in international markets and is affirmed as GRAS for certain foods and beverages. Comprised of a carefully selected blend of green and black tea varieties from fully  traceable plant sources, AssuriTEA is 100-percent water extracted  and therefore does not contain harsh solvents and chemical residues. Unlike other commonly used botanical ingredients, AssuriTEA’s all-natural formula does not have gastrointestinal distress and other reported undesirable side effects.

— Kemin Industries Inc., 800-777-8307

www.kemin.com

 

Versatile, Functional Choline

Choline’s role in cell structure and function, lipid metabolism, cell signaling and genetic regulation underlie its contribution to cognitive, cardiovascular, and liver health, as well as maintenance of vigor during strenuous exercise.  Its demographic targets are as diverse as its therapeutic targets.  Choline is an important component of the nutrition of prenatal and infant patients (via pregnant and lactating mothers), children, as well as athletic and geriatric segments of the population. Water-soluble choline salts, such as Balchem’s VitaCholine choline chloride and choline bitartrate, are versatile, stable, easy-to-use ingredients that have been incorporated into numerous foods, beverages, and supplements worldwide in recent years.  Select health benefits of choline can be communicated in label claims and offering a significant point of product differentiation.

—Balchem Encapsulates, 845-326-5600

nutrients@balchem.com, www.vitacholine.com

 

Cranberry Extract

Exocyan is a unique line of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) extracts, a small acid berry grown exclusively in North and South America. This berry is naturally packed with polyphenols and A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs), which have antioxidant and healthy aging properties. A-type PACs in cranberry are known for having antibacterial activity which helps prevent urinary tract infection. Nexira studies have shown that Exocyan also improves oral hygiene by reducing dental plaque, and thanks to its very low sugar content and a controlled acidity, it can be safely used in dental care application, without any risk of enamel tooth demineralization. The use of Exocyan in confectionery such as chewing-gum allows combining the natural flavoring properties of the cranberry with the oral care properties of Exocyan.

—Nexira Inc., 908-707-9400

 Teresa Yazbek, VP Americas,

 info-usa@nexira.com, www.nexira.com

 

Microencapsulated Iron

Iron is an essential nutrient for growth, development and health maintenance, particularly important for women and children.  Current iron products in the marketplace are known for their side effects of unpleasant taste, gastric distress and may provide a formulation challenge in supplements and food items.  AB-Fortis provides a patented microencapsulation technology of iron within a sphere of calcium and alginate that is versatile in functional foods.  It has proven stable in many common production techniques involving aqueous solutions and high heat and pressure and can be incorporated into any food matrix, solid or liquid.  Microencapsulated iron in this format provides high bioavailability and high fortification efficiency with significantly reduced common side effects. Formulation trials in acid semi-solid products, such as yogurt, in heat treated liquids, such as milk and heat-treated extruded solids, such as sausage have demonstrated that AB-Fortis is both stable during the manufacturing processes and does not affect the change or appearance of the finished products. Overall, AB-Fortis microencapsulated iron provides a useful solution to fortify a range of functional foods with a necessary element required for health.

—Frutarom Health, 310-480-5364

 Eden Somberg, Technical Specialist

esomberg@frutarom.com, www.frutarom.com

 

Amino Acid Chelates

Albion Human Nutrition added two self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) ingredients to its line of patented amino acid chelates. Calci-K and DiMagnesium Malate both received GRAS affirmation from an independent panel of experts after a rigorous scientific review. “Both Calci-K and DiMagnesium Malate have been studied extensively by Albion for their bioavailability with results indicating very positive results,” says Max Motyka, director of sales. “Receiving self-affirmed GRAS status is a great accomplishment for Albion in broadening the scope of application for these ingredients.” Calci-K is a combination of calcium, potassium and phosphorous, specifically designed for use in fortification of liquid food products. DiMagnesium Malate is a highly bio-available form of magnesium.

—Albion Human Nutrition, 586-774-9055

www.albionminerals.com/human-nutrition

 

Cherries Aid Sleep

Disturbing sleep patterns have an impact on a person’s overall health and are considered significant risk factors for obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other health problems. People struggling with sleep problems should consider adding tart cherries to their diet, as compounds in tart cherries may be a natural way to help reset the body’s internal clock to establish regular sleep patterns. In one study, researchers found that drinking tart cherry juice daily helped reduce the severity of insomnia and time spent awake after going to sleep. When drinking tart cherry juice daily, 15 adults saved about 17 minutes of wake time after going to sleep, on average, compared to when they were drinking a juice drink.

—Cherry Marketing Institute, www.choosecherries.com.

 

Milk Proteins

BarPro 585 from Glanbia Nutritionals is a milk protein system that increases protein levels in bar applications. Great tasting, fortified bar fillings can be achieved using the whipping protein, which also provides a softer texture with longer shelf life. Previously a whipped nougat texture was difficult to achieve for manufacturers looking to add protein to nutritional bars, since high protein formulations can have adverse effects on taste and texture, which are important sensory attributes for health-conscious consumers. BarPro 585 provides both nutritional and functional benefits to bar manufacturers, with the added benefit that the ingredient can be used as the sole protein source when making nutritional bars with high levels of dairy protein. Glanbia Nutritionals also provides BarFlex 181 to fortify chocolate coatings with high protein, delivering additional protein in nutritional bar coatings.

—Glanbia Nutritionals, 608-316-8500

www.glanbianutritionals.com

                                                           

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

People are increasingly looking for foods and ingredients that will help them live longer, healthier lives. One such ingredient that consumers know about and are most interested in is omega-3 fatty acids.  These fatty acids are essential to the healthy function of body and mind. The majority of health benefits they provide come from the two principal members of the omega-3 family, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DHA). EPA plays a crucial role in promoting cardiovascular health and safeguarding the health of the body’s cells and joints. DHA contributes to the development and function of the brain and nervous system.  DHA influences brain development, visual function, cognitive decline, depression and ADHD. Marinol Omega-3 Triglycerides are concentrated oils with high amounts of DHA and/or EPA and are available in liquid oils, powder, or ready- to-use emulsions.

—Stepan Lipid Nutrition, 847-501-2144

Laura Rabe, food.health@stepan.com, www.stepan.com

 

Nutrient Premixes for Coffee, Tea

Fortitech, now part of DSM, used IFT to showcase a range of food and beverage applications—from a gourmet, freshly brewed coffee to a RTD tea, relaxation chocolate and biscotti—all packed with nutrients that can either aid in the management of specific health concerns, or help fill nutrient gaps in consumer diets.  On the beverage side, Fortitech’s Antioxidant Gourmet Coffee featured antioxidants A, C and E, as well as B vitamins and vitamin D3 (also offered in instant coffee stick pack). Another sample was an RTD Peach Tea formulated for healthy ageing. Nutrients such as Resveratrol, CoQ10, Zinc, Chromium and B-vitamins support several aspects of healthy ageing including cardiovascular health, blood sugar management and energy.  This all-in-one product was developed by Fortitech as an ultra-convenient way to deliver nutrients, flavors, colors, stabilizers and sweeteners in one complete powdered solution. Utilizing PowerCap technology, the premix is available in a universal cap that fits any regular-size water bottle, and as an integrated beverage system, allowing the solution to be released into a beverage at will.

–Fortitech Inc., 518-372-5155

www.fortitech.com

 

Beauty from Within

Besides the traditional use of collagen proteins as natural stabilizers and emulsifiers for countless products, GELITA has intensified its research in developing solutions for physical mobility, weight management and beauty from within. VERISOL Bioactive Collagen Peptides substantially increase skin elasticity and hydration and prevent the formation of wrinkles by stimulating skin metabolism and the creation of new collagen. Administered orally, VERISOL influences the skin’s matrix from the inside. Produced from native collagen, VERISOL features excellent bioavailability and can easily be incorporated into a diverse range of products: from functional foods and beverages to pharmaceutical-like applications such as capsules and film-coated tablets. Explore the latest published clinical research.

–Gelita, 800-223-9244

service.na@gelita.com, www.gelita.com

 

Soy Protein with Calcium

An excellent choice for formulating calcium-fortified foods and beverages, Gushen soy proteins are now available from Farbest. Complete with 3% calcium, this soy protein also is rich in branch chain amino acids. They have excellent solubility, are easily dispersible and do not impart viscosity to the finished product. Soy protein has been shown to lower total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol. In fact, according to the FDA, consuming 25 grams of soy protein a day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Farbest soy proteins are non-GMO and have a clean, neutral taste.

—Farbest Brands, 201-573-4900

Lorna Samgour, lsamgour@farbest.com, www.farbest.com

 

Masking Flavors

Virginia Dare’s portfolio includes flavors designed to reduce or eliminate the aftertaste of the latest nutritional ingredients.  Currently, protein fortification is one of the most significant health and wellness trends. In addition to addressing the flavor challenges of traditional proteins such as whey and soy protein, Virginia Dare’s masking flavors also can improve the flavor profile of more novel proteins such as pea protein and brown rice protein. Stevia’s popularity as a natural high intensity sweetener is growing.  Virginia Dare has custom formulated masking flavors to effectively mask the bitter, licorice-like and astringent notes often associated with stevia.  Virginia Dare’s extensive portfolio of masking flavors can optimize the flavor profile of foods and beverages fortified with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, caffeine, herbal extracts, and omega-3 fatty acids.  Virginia Dare masking flavors are available in a variety of forms, including liquid, dry, natural, natural and artificial, and organic compliant.—Virginia Dare, 718-788-1776

Bob Verdi, flavorinfo@virginiadare.com, www.virginiadare.com

 

Gelatine for Diverse Deliveries

Besides the traditional use of collagen proteins as natural stabilizers and emulsifiers for countless products, GELITA has intensified its research in developing solutions for physical mobility, weight management and beauty from within. GELITA Gelatine has been used for decades to provide benefits of taking medicine and nutritional ingredients that are encased in convenient and elegant, dose-sized gelatine capsules. Whether hard- or soft-gelatine capsules, these dosage forms have been enthusiastically received by consumers. GELITA Gelatine also has been instrumental in the development of novel delivery systems, such as fortified or functional gummies. Supported by diverse and experienced technical and formulation services, GELITA is well-known and respected as a leader in gelatine for delivery systems to the pharma, health and nutrition industries.

— Gelita, 800-223-9244

service.na@gelita.com, www.gelita.com

 

Function Plus Flavor

Developing flavorful functional and better-for-you foods and beverages can present formulation challenges. Flavorchem’s highly stable masking flavors allow formulators the freedom to use functional ingredients at usage rates they desire without the associated off-flavors. Beneficial ingredients such as omega-3’s, healthy sweeteners, and soy to name a few can produce undesirable tastes and/or odors. As a result, manufacturers may limit usage levels or avoid functional ingredients altogether, missing out on valuable package label opportunities. The solution is to use a flavor that’s specifically developed to mask a particular off-flavor. Flavorchem masking agents are available in liquid and powder form and Natural, All Natural, N&A and Organic compliant types.

—Flavorchem Corp., 630-932-8100

 Ed McIntosh, Marketing Manager

emcintosh@flavorchem.com, www.flavorchem.com

 

Microalgal Ingredients

Indulgence and nutrition are both possible by Roquette’s breakthrough ingredient, Roquette Microalgae. Since 2006, Roquette has led the development of its suite of microalgal ingredients, including its GRAS-approved lipid. These renewable microalgal ingredients allow formulators to substantially improve nutrition while promoting superior sensory qualities in a range of applications, from bakery to culinary to beverage. Unlike any other ingredient, Roquette Microalgae delivers both an incredibly indulgent experience and substantial nutritional benefits. Application benefits of formulating with Roquette Microalgae can include: fat and calorie reduction, fat profile optimization, protein increase, fiber increase, cholesterol reduction, texture improvement, common allergen removal and clean labeling.

—Roquette America, 630-463-9430

Gina Steffensmeier, gina.steffensmeier@roquette.com

www.RoquetteAmerica.com

 

Healthy Food, Healthy Color

GNT believes that the most wholesome way to color a food or beverage is with fruits, vegetables and edible plants. The EXBERRY journey starts with carefully selected seeds planted and cultivated by GNT farmers worldwide. To achieve the vibrant hues EXBERRY natural colors provide, the fruits and vegetables are harvested at peak ripeness and quickly transferred to the processing facility. GNT’s cutting‐edge processing technology is designed to handle the raw materials gently, using only water and ingenuity to retain the essential character of the raw material. GNT never uses solvents or preservatives and all EXBERRY natural colors are GMO‐Free, Kosher and Organic Compliant. The result is a natural color that is so pure and wholesome; it can be eaten on its own.

—GNT USA Inc., 914-524-0600

www.gnt‐group.com

 

Functional Premixes

Consumers are looking for added nutrition from the foods they already consume. Corbion knows that manufacturers need partners who can help deliver on consumer needs by creating cost-effective fortification premixes that meet specific requirements. Corbion’s Nutrivan vitamin and mineral premixes bring this added nutrition to your products. Choose from an already developed premix targeted to specific health benefits, or Corbion—with more than 80 years experience—can create a completely customized premix. Corbion offers Nutrivan Fit Premix to manage weight by controlling hunger and providing the feeling of fullness. Nutrivan Focus Premix is a blend to help target brain health and mental focus. Nutrivan Hearty Premix targets health and circulatory system health. Nutrivan Strong Premix is a blend of calcium plus 2 vitamin activators to aid calcium absorption and utilization for optimum bone health.

—Corbion Caravan, (800) 669-4092

www.corbion.com

 

Full-Service, Every Category

BI Nutraceuticals is a global, full-service supplier of more than 200 natural GRAS ingredients for functional foods and beverages. BI has developed a comprehensive database of its GRAS ingredients and has segmented them into 12 condition-specific functional platforms—allowing manufacturers to quickly and easily locate specific new product ingredients. Platforms include: anti-aging, bone health, calming, cognitive, digestive, energy, eye health, heart health, immunity, joint-inflammation, sleep and weight management. BI received SQF 2000 (Safe Quality Food) certification from NSF for its facilities. BI was the first nutraceutical raw material supplier to attain this designation. The company also is gluten-free, kosher and halal certified.

—BI Nutraceuticals, 310-669-2100

contact@botanicals.com, www.binutraceuticals.com

 

Reduce Sodium

Tate & Lyle’s SODA-LO Salt Microspheres is a salt-reducing ingredient that tastes, labels and functions like salt because it is salt! With SODA-LO Salt Microspheres, food manufacturers can reduce salt levels by 25% to 50% in various applications without sacrificing taste. SODA-LO Salt Microsphere is created using a patent-pending technology that turns standard salt crystals into free-flowing crystalline microspheres. These smaller, lower-density crystals efficiently deliver salty taste by maximizing surface area relative to volume. Because SODA-LO Salt Microspheres is made from salt, it has none of the bitter aftertaste or off-flavors associated with some other salt compounds or substitutes. The global food and beverage industry has recognized SODA-LO Salt Microspheres within a 12-month period since its launch in 2012.

—Tate & Lyle, 800-526-5728

sodalo.noam@tateandlyle.com, www.soda-lo.com