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Some suppliers have long delivered safe, high-quality nutraceutical ingredients for the pharmaceutical and dietary supplement industries, but interest is growing among food companies. Some attendees witnessed this at one supplierís booth at the 2010 Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Annual Food Expo in Chicago.

Continuing scientific studies investigate the ability of omega-3s and antioxidant foods -- such as chocolate, spices, green tea, soy and fruit -- to assist with a range of health issues, including heart health, cognitive function and diabetes.

Consumers equate blueberries with antioxidant power and readily accept them incorporated into any product. Based on data from the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Boston, blueberries are among the fruits with the highest antioxidant activity.

Regulators begin to impact functional food efforts, yet opportunities remain, as we explore nutritional ingredient trends.

Manufacturers weigh in on upcoming ingredient and formulations trends, from dietary fiber to green tea extracts, low-fat to satiety-enhancing foods.

A new study indicates hair attributes and condition can benefit from a flax ingredient. Consumption of Glanbia Nutritionals’ proprietary, beauty-from-within, enriched flax ingredient increased the luster, shine and overall condition of human hair, according to the company.

Satiety-enhancing foods include some that are able to fill the gut but be markedly reduced (e.g., fiber, polydextrose), while others will affect the release of gut hormones, influencing satiety and appetite.

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the major catechin in green tea, is associated with reduced risk of cancer; improved gastrointestinal and cardiovascular health, glucose metabolism; and alleviation of allergies and arthritis.

Studies report on topics from consumers’ moods toward food to a few of particular significance to women’s health.

Pizzey’s SelectGrad and BevGrad Milled Flaxseed ingredients offer a complex matrix of ALA omega-3 fatty acids (22%), lignans, dietary fiber, antioxidants and other natural nutraceutical compounds.