EFSA: selenium yeast is safe
The European Food Safety Authority's (EFSA) panel on food additives recently issued a positive scientific opinion on the use of selenium (Se) yeast in foods and food supplements, deeming it safe. It also looked at the bioavailability and metabolism of the mineral source, identifying the high level of selenomethionine (60-85 per cent of the Se content) to be responsible for the superior bioavailability of the compound. The panel also concluded that yeast with high levels of organically bound selenium, such as Lalmin Se, is up to twice as bioavailable as inorganic forms of selenium such as selenite or selenate, according to Lallemand Health Ingredients, makers of Lalmin Selenium Yeast.

Chromadex-Cargill agreement
With the introduction of Truvia rebiana natural sweetener by Cargill, there exists a need to insure the quality of stevia-related products. Rebiana is a natural product originating with the leaves of the stevia plant. ChromaDex, a world leader in the development of phytochemical and botanical reference standards, recently announced an agreement with Cargill to supply global analytical reference standards and research materials for the individual sweet components of the natural sweetener. This provides the ability for food and beverage companies to validate rebiana for use in consumer products. Previously, there were no accepted standards of identity for companies to use to evaluate these products.

AstaPure heads for Europe
Algatechnologies of Israel has been given a green light to market its AstaPure natural astaxanthin line for dietary supplements in Europe. The UK Foods Standards Agency approved the product under European novel-foods legislations. Algatechnologies, a leading supplier of natural astaxanthin produced from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae, is located in Israel's Arava desert — an optimal location for algae cultivation due to the area's stable climate conditions and year-round high light intensities.

Cholesstrinol wins award
The Cholesstrinol family of heart-healthy formulas from SourceOne Global Partners has received the Frost & Sullivan Heart Health Supplements Product Innovation of the Year Award. Says Frost & Sullivan, "SourceOne has followed a methodical approach in readying Cholesstrinol products and formulas for the marketplace. From establishing conclusive scientific evidence for its benefits to developing a specific and targeted media awareness campaign, SourceOne has displayed commendable understanding of the competitive factors in the nutritional ingredient marketplace."

Cranberry powder garners award
AHD International has received the 2008 Frost & Sullivan North American Protein Product Innovation Award for its branded ingredient Luravida Cranberry Protein Powder. Launched in September 2007, the powder provides a complete protein and significant levels of essential fatty acids (omega 3s, 6s, 9s), dietary fibre, minerals, and antioxidants. As the only 100 per cent fruit protein that contains 25 per cent complete protein, the ingredient also possesses a high amount of naturally occurring proanthocyanidin to address urinary-tract infections. It provides an alternative protein and EFA source for those with soy and dairy allergies and intolerances, or those who find the smell or taste of fish oil unpleasant.

Facility breaks ground
National Enzyme Company of Missouri broke ground on a new manufacturing facility, due for completion in February 2009. It will comprise more than 10,000 square feet of manufacturing space. NEC specialises in product development and contract manufacturing. Despite a challenging economy, the company says it has enjoyed record-breaking revenues for the past several years, nearly doubling its production over the past five years.

IQ Net grants certification
Pharmline has been granted ISO-9001 certification?by IQ Net as part of a strategic move to toughen its quality-assurance procedures. The action is complementary to several moves taken by the company since January, including GMP re-certification by the Natural Products Association.

New website, packaging
Designer Whey has launched a new company website at www.designerwhey.com, along with a redesign of its product packaging. The company recently released its Protein Blitz and Lite & Lean product lines. Next Proteins, the maker of Designer Whey, spent more than $10 million on research to develop products that boost strength, power, muscle recovery, and overall health and performance.