The KSM Experience

KSM-66 Ashwagandha was the Title Sponsor of this year's SSW exhibition. Attendees were invited to learn more about KSM-66 and partake in an immersive multi-sensory experience. The KSM-66 Ashwagandha Experience Center was a timed experienced that allowed guests to engage all of their senses while learning about the KSM-66 Ashwagandha story through  Sourcing, Science, Supply chain integration, Safety, Sustainability, Sensory experience, Social impact, and a unique Surprise. The display was one of the more unique experiences at the show. It created an all-encompassing experience for individuals to learn and walk away fully understanding the herb, its origins, and its impact in today's health space. Learn more about KSM-66 in The Ashwagandha Experience.

On the SSW show floor

During the exhibit hours, we visited booths and spoke with the experts for a look at the latest science and innovations. An overview of what we learned:

ADM was spotlighting its supportive solutions platform for consumers engaging with anti-obesity medications (AOMs), including GLP-1 receptor agonists. An example of ADM’s market-ready GLP-1 complementary food and supplement concepts at the show was the “Brownie Fusion Protein Shake” concept, which contains 30 grams of protein plus Bifidobacterium longum CECT7347 (ES1) postbiotic and ADM/Matsutani LLC’s Fibersol prebiotic dietary fiber. ADM also focused on the expanding gut microbiome arena, including concepts that incorporate multiple biotics for tailored support, such as the company's “Tribiotic Gummy Dietary Supplement” concept featuring DE111 (Bacillus subtilis) spore-forming probiotic, ES1 postbiotic, and Fibersol prebiotic dietary fiber. Science was also in the spotlight: A new study published in Gut Microbes demonstrates that ES1 probiotic and heat-treated postbiotic may support overall gut and digestive health. Read more on the findings here.

Alkemist Labs invited suppliers and brands looking to ensure product purity with robust contaminant testing to meet with the staff to discuss the company's testing capabilities and inquire about the Alkemist Assured program, which is designed for brands looking to highlight their quality commitment and assurance with the use of the Alkemist assured seal throughout their branding. For more from Alkemist, don't miss The Natural View: Alkemist Provides "How to Choose a Lab" Tool for Industry Use.

With its recent move into the nutritional ingredients space, sodium bicarbonate expert Arm & Hammer launched Evolved Probiotics, a line geared toward supporting women's health and digestive health. During the event, Evolved Probiotics 3613-1 won the People's Choice Award in the Women's Health category at Ingredient Idol. Currently, the company's new product line consist of Lr3613 Women's Health strain for vaginal and urinary tract health, Lp276 Digestive Health Strain for digestive and immune health, Bs1579 Biotransformation strain to activate the antioxidant benefits of a healthy diet, and Bs839 Biotransformation Strain to help the body process beneficial compounds found in cruciferous vegetables. With the introduction of its probiotics line, Arm & Hammer is focused on creating the next generation of probiotic care for gut and vaginal microbiome health and functionality.

Aquanova NA Corp. discussed the latest research on NovaSOL Astaxanthin. Research published in the European Journal of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, showed that Aquanova’s NovaSOL Astaxanthin was more bioavailable when compared to the native form of astaxanthin. NovaSOL technology creates a nature-like micelle structure surrounding the active components, which  increases the solubility and bioavailability of astaxanthin. Prior research on NovaSOL technology, featuring curcumin, resulted in a 57-fold increase in absorption versus six other commercially available preparations of curcumin.

Arla Foods Ingredients was showcasing a new high-protein bar concept. The "Essentials Bar" is an example of how manufacturers can create a product with high protein content, a whole foods positioning and softness throughout shelf life while overcoming the challenge of whey protein missing from many wholefood bars due to its hardening reaction when combined with natural fruit sugars. The brand also focused on its Lacprodan ISO WaterShake, which can be used in holistic beverages that combine hydration with the nutritional benefits of whey protein.

Artemis International introduced SSW visitors to the “Five B’s”: Berries, Botanicals, Blends, Brands and BEYOND. Included were a few of the company's staple berry-based ingredients, including Natural Choice Awards Ingredient Winner in Immune Category ElderCraft and BERRYActiv5. Company reps explained Artemis International's expanded vision for the upcoming year, which includes botanicals and formulations for food and beverage, Fenulfakes as a main ingredient for plant-based F&B formulations, and a broader convenient, solution-based product line to meet growing customer needs.

Balchem was forecasting trends including performance (bone, joint, brain health), vitality and healthspan, and women's health. Key ingredients from the company include: K2VITAL, a pure, 99.7% all-trans vitamin K2 MK-7 for supporting bone and cardiovascular health; K2VITAL DELTA double-encapsulated vitamin K2, which is resistant to harsh environments and is ideal for pairing with minerals; VitaCholine, which is used in multivitamins, fortified foods, infant formula and many other products to support both cognitive and liver health; OptiMSM for maintaining health, in areas from joint health to beauty from within; and Albion Minerals, a portfolio of chelated and specialty minerals that boasts more than 200 scientific studies and dozens of patents.

Bioiberica was educating on clinical research behind its branded ingredients portfolio and sharing opportunities for innovation in mobility, beauty-from-within and digestive health. Visitors sampled gummies formulated with Bioiberica's HA matrix ingredients Mobilee, for muscle & joint health, and Dermial, for skin & beauty, at the show's tasting bar. 

Bionap USA Inc. transported visitors to the Mediterranean where traditions of health, support and care for the land and ingredients permeate through everything Bionap does. Bionap offers ingredients sustainably grown in the areas surrounding Mt. Etna UNESCO World Heritage Site. These volcanic-enriched soils have a unique mineral and chemical profile that impart distinct attributes in the ingredients. They shared how ODILIA Prickly Pear Prebiotic, award-winning MOROSIL Sicilian Blood Orange for weight management and ACTRISAVE for hair and skin can work in product formulations.

BLS’s NAD+ experts shared what they’ve learned about this essential coenzyme and educated attendees on how to gain market share. BLS is also gave out free NAD+ test kits, so attendees can test their NAD+ levels before and after sampling BLS’s clinically proven NAD+ boosting ingredient, RiaGev, twice daily for one week. SSW attendees also learned about BLS’s newest ingredient, RiboVite, which has been proven to increase the oral bioavailability of B Vitamins. For more, don't miss The Natural View: NAD & BLS's Breakthrough Ingredient RiaGev.

Tess and Patrick Barr of Bright Pharma Caps, Inc. were educating on how to choose a capsule supplier. The company offers the world’s first NOP certified organic vegetable capsules, and explained how these stand apart from others offerings that are available, plus the organic advantage and growing consumer demand. For a deeper dive, including how to avoid "organic fraud," stay tuned for a special episode of The Natural View podcast featuring Tess and Patrick.

Cargill shared news of the addition of DHA alga oil to its ingredient line-up. Visitors were treated to a range of functional foods and tasty supplements prototypes showcasing how the company's expertise in Specialized Nutrition and insights-led innovation address consumers' taste, texture, and nutritional expectations. Booth visitors were also treated to a strawberry lemonade flavored DHA functional gummy, chocolate plant-protein smoothie with its PURIS pea protein and EverSweet stevia sweetener and ClearFlo natural flavor, a peanut butter and strawberry-flavored energy bar with PURIS and choline-enriched soy lecithin, as well as a triple berry-flavored functional gummy offering 500 mg of EpiCor postbiotic. 

Cepham gave attendees an up-close look at its branded women-targeted ingredients including Furocyst, a proprietary fenugreek seed extract developed to support insulin sensitivity and reduce ovarian cysts, SheVari4 for women, AdoniXYen for men.

Ciranda was celebrating its 30-year anniversary during the show. Their team was handing out samples of prebiotic fiber lemon drink mix featuring organic inulin and organic dextrose, while sharing details of its first-ever impact report showcasing the company's increasing local and global impact as a premier supplier of organic, non-GMO, and fair-trade ingredients. Ciranda's Head of Sustainability, Joe Rouleau, participated in the  Inside Organic “The new consumer’s influence on the organic supply chain" panel.

In January 2024, COMET shared its trend report Top 10 Biotics Opportunities for 2024. At the top of the list: was a trend that was dominating SSW: Offering an Ozempic Alternative. COMET stressed that product marketers should recognize that while "today's consumers are enamored with the dramatic weight loss effects of Ozempic (and similar) drugs available, prebiotic fibers can also plug into the conversation with improved insulin responses and appetite regulation." There are opportunities to capitalize on the buzzworthy Ozempic effect with natural products. And the SSW, COMET discussed its upcycled Arrabina (prebiotic fiber blends) as a superior for food and beverage formulations. Arrabina is gluten-free wheat fiber extract that contains a natural blend of prebiotics including arabinoxylans, lignin and polyphenols. It is an FDA-recognized dietary fiber with clinically proven metabolic health benefits and exceptional tolerability, even at four or more servings daily, the company says. Following the show, COMET shared the news that Arrabina prebiotic dietary fibers is now NutraStrong Prebiotic Verified. 

dsm-firmenich was spotlighting its comprehensive range of product concepts and solutions targeting health from the gut, healthy longevity and maternal health, including Humiome B2. The company explains that unlike conventional B2 supplements, this 'biotic' vitamin uses patented Microbiome Targeted Technology (MTT) to ensure that 90% of its vitamin B2 content will reach the colon, nourishing the gut microbiome and providing prebiotic-like benefits for gut health, immunity, and overall well-being. Also on display: Humiome Post LB, a postbiotic solution composed of a unique combination of two proprietary bacterial strains together with their fermented culture medium and active metabolites. It is backed by 40-plus scientific studies and shows promise for immune and digestive health. The company also offers GlyCare HMOs, tailored Premix Solutions, and has expanded its life’sOMEGA and life’sDHA portfolio. Looking ahead, the company said healthy longevity is in area of investment, focused on solutions to help consumers age better.

ENovate Biolife treated us to its "Elevate Your Innovation" initiative, a demonstration of how its ingredient solutions can help finished brands enhance efficacy and health claims. Show guests previewed a clinical study on the efficacy of a new ingredient designed to boost protein performance, as well as to learn more about their recent acquistion by OmniActive, and discover signature ingredients including Muvz for paint management and flexibility support, Oxyjun for cardiovascular health, RedNite for neuromuscular health support, HeezOn the botanical compound boosting male sexual desire, performance and satisfaction, and Lanconone—a joint care formula that provides rapid and sustained joint comfort. 

Euromed exhibited Mediterranean fruit and vegetable extracts with a focus on healthy aging and wellbeing, including its extract from persimmon, perFix, which has shown significant benefits for weight management and may possibly interfere with the body's fat absorption. Pomanox, a pomegranate extract, and Earth Harmony Organic Extracts, certified organic botanicals, were also on display. 

FrieslandCampina Ingredients showcased an array of consumer-centric application concepts designed to power holistic health from within. Attendees explored how to unleash innovation in gut, brain and immune health through the company’s comprehensive Biotis portfolio, featuring the recently launched Biotis DHA Flex Powders, in addition to Biotis Fermentis, Biotis GOS and Biotis Lactoferrin. FrieslandCampina Ingredients will also spotlight its premium Excellion caseinates and plant-based Plantaris pea and faba proteins, developed to help brands master the art of taste and texture, without compromising on protein content. 

Gelita was educating on its science-backed ingredients for sports nutrition and functional health products, including its Bioactive Collagen Peptides (BCP). These ingredients are customized to target a specific part of the body, including skin, joints, bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles. BODYBALANCE specialized collagen peptides have been shown to decrease fat mass, increase lean body mass and provide more muscle strength in combination with resistance training. BODYBALANCE can also support people taking GLP-1 and help maintain healthspan, the team says. Also from Gelita: PeptENDURE collagen protein, which has been shown to enhance the effects of endurance training and long-term performance through adaptive muscle changes. 

Gencor was spreading the news of its exclusive partnership with Gnosis by Lesaffre as its U.S. distribution partner for sustainable Rhodiola (rosea or crenulata) Bioactive and LANDKIND Pure Salidroside. The distribution deal will give U.S. customers access to LANDKIND Pure Salidroside, a fermented salidroside bioactive that is gluten-free, vegan, Halal-certified, and acceptable for capsules, tablets, powders. Rhodiola is used in natural products for its effects on performance energy levels. Salidroside is Rhodiola's most studied bioactive and plays a critical role in its efficacy. LANDKIND Pure Salidroside is created through a unique fermentation process that eliminates the need to harvest the endangered Rhodiola species. The company was also showcasing Levagen+ branded Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which is enhanced with Pharmako Biotechnologies’ LipiSperse cold-water dispersion technology. A gold standard clinical trial showed that Levagen+ supports a significant reduction in skin dryness and redness when compared to a comparator cream, indicating  that Levagen+ is a viable and effective option for topical creams and beauty brands. The ingredient has essential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties and is categorized as part of the extended endocannabinoid family with similar health benefits. Clinically, additional research benefits include joint health, sleep health, recovery, immunity, inflammation, and women’s health. Levagen+ is also a Natural Choice Award winner.

Helaina introduced effera, an ingredient alternative to Bovine Lactoferrin. Launched in August, effera is the first human lactoferrin equivalent ingredient with pre-clinical and clinical data showing its bioavailability, safety, and similar profile to native human lactoferrin, the company says. Additionally, the team shared the news of recent Series B funding that brought in $45 million to accelerate the commercialization of human bioactive proteins, starting with effera. 

Horphag Research featured its premier ingredients, Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract and Robuvit French oak wood extract. Attendees learned about a newly published review in Frontiers in Nutrition highlighting Pycnogenol’s 39 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies on over 2,000 subjects on cardiovascular health, cognitive functions, skin care, women’s health, and sports performance. In more than 25 clinical studies on over 1000 subjects, Robuvit, a natural caffeine-free energizer, has been shown to support fatigue management, renewed energy, sports performance and detoxification.

IFF showcased its range of metabolic and women’s health solutions. Visitors discovered latest science-backed innovations  in a variety of appealing, convenient samples, demonstrating IFF’s support capabilities from concept to finished formats. Dr. Johanna Maukonen, Global Director of Clinical Innovation & Translation at IFF, also spoke on Akkermansia massiliensis for metabolic health.

Indena introduced branded botanical extracts, with a full phytochemical characterization, safe and supported by leading human studies. Attendees learned more about the Berbevis Berberine, Indena Phytosome, and Relissa Melissa Indena Phytosome, as well as about Indena’s ongoing sustainability efforts. With more than 100 years of botanical experience, Indena is  dedicated to the identification, development and production of high-quality active principles derived from plants for use in the pharmaceutical and health food industries. 

Ingredients by Nature shared the news of its latest partnered probiotic, Akkermansia muciniphila (AKK), and highlighted its line of pre-, pro-, and postbiotics. Guests were treated to information on the company's award-winning portfolio, which includes Eriomin for GLP-1 boost and blood glucose support, Sytrinol for heart health, SynChoice for healthy weight management, and other high-potency citrus-derived ingredients.

JBSL-USA was showcasing natto. Some 70% of the population in Japan eats it daily, the company shared, and studies show those who regularly consume natto have lower heart disease and dementia. For those who don't want to eat natto daily, the company says it has isolated the most healthful compounds, and they are investing in research to show the benefits and to bring the ingredient to new markets including the U.S. and Canada. In one study published in CellPress, nattokinase (a natural enzyme derived from the fermented soybean dish natto) was shown to accelerate skin temperature recovery after cold water immersion. JBSL-USA said the findings substantiate the results of a previous study that showed nattokinase improves blood flow. This also suggests the benefits of nattokinase for individuals who are more sensitive to the cold, such as women and the elderly, through its potential to prevent excessive vasoconstriction.  The company supplies NSK-SD, as well as other natto-derived health ingredients including nattokinase, Vitamin K2-MK7 and Bacillus Subtilis Natto.

Kaneka Probiotics shared the news of clinical research published in the European Journal of Pediatrics, which compared the efficacy of AB-Biotics and Kaneka Probiotics’ proprietary probiotic blend (B. longum KABP®-042 and P. pentosaceus KABP®-041) for reducing colic symptoms with that of Biogaia’s L. reuteri DSM17938. The results confirm the blend’s efficacy in relieving colic symptoms while improving gut microbiota balance. The probiotic blend works by inhibiting pathogenic bacteria growth, inducing anti-inflammatory cytokines, and supporting intestinal barrier integrity via polyphosphates.

The companies noted that, while L. reuteri DSM17938 has long been a trusted solution, this new probiotic blend marks a significant advancement in colic treatment. Read more on the findings here.  The company also discussed its women's health focus, with probiotic strains that help to restore vaginal microbiota and maintain the stability of the microbiome community. The probiotic solutions are specifically mechanized to support vaginal health through all life stages.

Kyowa Hakko was focusing on the research supporting its premium, recently patented citicoline, Cognizin, and its full line of comprehensive branded ingredients including Cognizin citicoline, IMMUSE postbiotic for immune health, Setria glutathione, and EYEMUSE postbiotic for eye health. The latest science on Cognizin citicoline shows its impact on brain health at a DNA level. Using an integrative high-resolution transcriptomic approach in human cell systems, researchers explored how this compound combats brain aging.  The company explains that a transcriptomic approach involves studying the activity of genes in cells by examining all the RNA molecules produced by the genes in a cell or group of cells. This method helps scientists understand which genes are active, their utilization levels, and how they change under different conditions. The findings deepen the understanding of cognitive health and pave the way for innovative approaches to combat brain aging; Kyowa Hakko notes the implications for aging populations, mental health, and neurodegenerative diseases are key areas of interest for consumers. 

At Layn Natural Ingredients, the focus was on new findings that highlight the potential of its ingredient SophorOx, a proprietary blend of polyphenols, as a supportive adjunct to GLP-1 agonists in maintaining healthy hormone levels related to weight management. SophorOx has been shown to inhibit the expression of 8-isoprostane, a primary biomarker for oxidative stress, Layn reports. Chronic oxidative stress provokes the production of pro-inflammatory compounds that disrupt hormones produced by adipose tissue, including leptin and adiponectin. SophorOx supports healthy hormone levels by mitigating oxidative stress and its pro-inflammatory effects. Layn also discussed its new premium L-Theanine product designed to enhance functional beverages and sports supplements with up to 98% Pure L-Theanine derived from high-quality Camellia sinensis (green tea).

Lonza Capsules & Health Ingredients invited attendees to discover science-backed health ingredients and a comprehensive range of innovative dosage forms, including: New AromatiQ technology: a pioneering capsule coating solution using naturally-derived essential oils and aroma coatings to help brands create multi-sensory supplement moments for consumers; Plantcaps pullulan capsules: protects oxygen-sensitive ingredients, with taste and odor masking capabilities for enhanced appeal; and UC-II undenatured type II collagen: a science-backed ingredient that supports joint health in pets and humans, throughout all stages of life.

Brands learned more about Lycored’s innovative ingredients that support beauty-from-within and sample how these solutions can help brands deliver effective products that demonstrate a commitment to consumers' overall health and well-being. Visitors enjoyed a “treat yourself” wellness experience that empowers self-care while exploring the power of tomato-based beautology solutions.

With the growing popularity of mushrooms, the M2 Ingredients booth saw heavy foot traffic all show long. Company reps were on hand educating audiences on cutting-edge research, product offerings, and commitment to science-driven solutions. M2's Chief Science Officer Julie Daoust shared her expert insights as a member of the "Functional Mushrooms: Sources, Standards, Species & Science" information session discussing critical topics, advances in bioactive pounds testing, efficacy of functional mushrooms, and considerations for sourcing and the science behind mushroom cultivation and processing. 

Natures Crops International demonstrated how Ahiflower goes beyond fish oil with its sustainable, plant-based omegas. In partnership with Infusd, Ahiflower is expanding into innovative food and beverage applications, offering a plant-based alternative to traditional omega sources. Ahiflower provides a cleaner, more effective solution for brands looking to move beyond fish oil in their formulations.

Guests discovered two new ingredient ranges from Nexira. Targeting women's health: Appetite Control: Carolean (carob + nopal) which has shown a 47% reduction in food intake after 3 weeks in a clinical study, significantly slowing gastric emptying and Beauty from Within: Oli-Ola (organic olive extract) for improved skin elasticity (+13%) and hydration, with 87% of women satisfied after 3 months. Targeting the Microbiome: Blood Sugar Modulation: inavea cinnamon & acacia demonstrated improved gut microbiota and positive effects on blood glucose and insulin levels. For Microbiota Diversity: inavea carob & acacia supports microbiota diversity and promotes beneficial bacteria for full-spectrum intestinal fermentation.

Nuherbs demonstrated its range of form options, advised on the forms best fit for various formats relevant to color, flavor or function, and discussed how Nuherbs can guide product development throughout the process, from concept to formulating to specs to claims substantiation to contract manufacturer selection. Lisa Thomas, Nuherbs Chief Commercialization Officer, was a presenter for the educational session Supplements 101: An exploration of dietary supplement foundations. Plus, SSW attendees toasted to Nuherbs 45^th anniversary at their poolside cabana.

Nutrileads invited everyone to discover its latest advancements in precision prebiotics, showcasing innovation opportunities with Benicaros and sharing the details of new findings from clinical and preclinical studies in 2024. Learn more: The Natural View: Benicaros, The Award-Winning Precision Prebiotic from Nutrileads.

Nutriventia took SSW visitors on a "tour of experiences" featuring some its key ingredients while teaching about the collaborations and insights that are helping Nutriventia transform the future of the dietary supplements space. The Art of Nutraceuticals showcased TurmXTRA, a highly studied clinically proven low dose highly bioavailable turmeric ingredient for joint health and other benefits; Prolanza, an ashwagandha with several clinical trials; CaffXtend for energy and Melotime for sleep, relaxation and mood support.

PLT Health Solutions debuted new ingredients in the Men’s Health, Sports/Active Nutrition and Energy categories, plus highlighted new clinical science and delivery system options. New ingredients from PLT: Strengthera Muscle Maintenance+Vitality has been clinically demonstrated to improve muscle strength, muscle endurance and physical function in an over-55 female demographic with data for women; Zynamite S is a water-soluble formulation of the award-winning ingredient Zynamite that will allow you to confidently include this clinically studied, award-winning ingredient in beverages and other delivery systems where taste is an issue; Vanizem is a fast-acting, proprietary Aframomum melegueta (Grains of Paradise) extract that supports positive mood, improves sleep quality and provides effective management of mild day-to-day stress and anxious feelings; Serezin Restorative Sleep + Pain Relief has been clinically shown to improve sleep across a wide range of measures and help people to wake feeling their best.

Rousselot invited guests to "explore new frontiers in glucose control science" with Nextida GC and its range of specific collagen peptide compositions—targeting glucose spikes. The company also shared the details of its latest study on collagen hydrolysate improving postprandial glucose tolerance.

Sabinsa was highlighting Stress, with its ingredient Shagandha; Cognition with Sabroxy, Metabolic health with CurCousin and Nigellin; Liver health with LivLonga; and the benefits of pro and prebiotics such as LactoSpore, LactoCran LactoWise.Shagandha is a premier Ayurvedic adaptogen, a potent root extract of Ashwagandha, standardized for 2.5% withanolides for stress support. Sabroxy is an advanced, scientifically-backed formula to support memory and cognitive function. It is a patented extract of Oroxylum indicum bark extract, bio-standardized to a unique set of compounds, Oroxylin-A, baicalein and chrysin. For metabolic health, Sabinsa's range of supplements designed to improve the body’s metabolic functions and support overall health include CurCousin, a patented, clinically studied brand of Calebin A 99% for metabolic health and healthy weight management. For liver enzymes support, the company offers LivLonga, a combination of Curcumin C3 Complex and Livinol. Sabinsa also will showcase stable probiotic LactoSpore and synbiotics. LactoSpore-Heyndrickxia coagulans (Bacillus coagulans) MTCC 5856, is the heat-stable and storage stable probiotic helps to maintain overall health. LactoSpore produces the beneficial short chain fatty acids (SCFA) by fermenting plant-based fibers. In the synbiotics catergory, fenugreek seed, green banana, sugarcane fibre, and turmeric provide resistant starch and are identified as prebiotic for supporting the efficacy of LactoSpore. LactoCran contains 2 Billion LactoSpore/g and organic cranberry seed/juice while LactoWise contains 15 Billion LactoSpore/g, 45% galactomannan and 5% protein.

Sempera Organics was spotlighting its proprietary branded lion’s mane extract, SO-DSX-1 that is clinically shown to enhance cognitive acuity while simultaneously reducing stress response. In addition, Sempera Organics offers numerous mushrooms and distinctive condition-specific blends covering consumers’ most common well-being concerns.

TriNutra had its USP-grade, award-winning, clinically backed black seed oil, ThymoQuin, on display during the show. The company handed out samples of OmegaQuin, a clinically validated, highly potent omega-3 concentrate and black seed oil, plus shared news of its recently approved Health Canada structure-function claims for the product and explained how its product license allows finished product manufacturers to make specific recommendations, including support for healthy liver function, cardiovascular health, stress relief, and many other solutions.

TSI Group was showcasing its ingredient enfinity (paraxanthine), offering cognitive benefits without the side effects of caffeine; as well as new FZZR formulations designed to address common side effects associated with GLP-1 use such as muscle loss and nutrient deficiencies. For a deeper dive, stay tuned for a special episode of The Natural View podcast featuring Shawn Baier, VP of Business Development, Innovative Ingredients Product Line, TSI Group, discussing science-backed support to help us live our best lives, including the science behind myHMB and how it helps counteract muscle loss, plus the findings of a clinical study published in Nutrients looking at HMB + vitamin D3. 

Unibar was spreading the word on its latest ingredient launch, Bellaneo. The anti-aging serum contains clinically studied capsanthin extract, which has been shown to support skin health, skin elasticity, provide antioxidant protection, and hydrate the skin. Unibar was also focused on showcasing the award-winning eye health ingredient, CapsiClear, and the company's unique Farm to Finish sustainability efforts for UniGold, its GRAS-affirmed lutein extract for eye health.

Virigina Dare hosted a celebration in honor of its newest facility in Carteret, NJ. During the festivities, guests were treated to cold brew lattes, protein shakes, gummies, and hydration beverages highlighting the company's flavor and masking capabilities. Enjoy this tour of the new facility. 

Philip Bromley, CEO of Virun, was focusing on the innovations that can set a brand apart from the competition. One major focus at Virun is helping brands formulate with delicious flavor that keeps consumers coming back for more, but without all the sugar and preservatives. Consumers demand sugar-free options that still taste good, and the company helps formulators achieve this in wide range of deliver options, incuding alternatives to pills and gummies. To help brands innovate, the company's Idea Sphere is here to help. For a deeper dive into all of this and more, stay tuned for a special episode of The Natural View podcast featuring Bromley.

Waleria Healthtech Private Limited presented breakthrough research on aspurūs, its Shatavari extract that offers a natural, non-hormonal solution for managing menopausal symptoms and support for hormonal balance in menopausal women. The company also participated in the first-ever Women's Wellness Walk Guided Tours and took home the Women's Ingredient Idol award from the show. aspurūs is a clinically validated Shatavari-based ingredient offering a plant-based, non-hormonal solution for managing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia. Earlier this year, Waleria published a gold-standard clinical trial in the Cureus - Journal of Medical Sciences. The study evaluated aspurūs in 70 pre- and post-menopausal women, revealing: 85% reduction in hot flashes within 4 weeks; 90% decrease in night sweats within 8 weeks; and 60% improvement in sleep quality compared to placebo. The company’s latest research explored how Shatavarins—steroidal saponins in Shatavari—interact with hormonal receptors like estrogen, progesterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. Using advanced computational models, the study lays the groundwork for further research on hormonal balance in menopausal women.