Botanical Adulterants Prevention Program Celebrates Milestone
The ABC-AHP-NCNPR Botanical Adulterants Prevention Program (BAPP) is commemorating 15 years of service in the dietary supplement, medicinal plant, and consumer herbal products industry tackling adulteration and fraud in the international marketplace. Founded in 2011 by American Botanical Council founder and executive director Mark Blumenthal, BAPP has provided key research, over 100 peer reviewed publications, and educational resources to help the global herbal and dietary supplement industry. 15 years later, BAPP has become an international nonprofit association whose readership includes researchers, scientists, industry members, and regulators.
“In my opinion, one of the merits of BAPP is that it has shaped the conversation about adulteration in a way that is scientifically accurate," explained Stefan Gafner, Chief Science Officer of ABC and Director of BAPP. "One of the greatest privileges of my job is that it allows me to work with highly qualified scientific writers who know the botanical ingredient supply chain and the analytical aspects of ingredient authentication very well. I am especially grateful for the important contributions of the late Steven Foster and Ezra Bejar, who have helped shape the program in the early years.”
Unilever Acquires Grüns
Unilever has signed a formal agreement to acquire Grüns. A move that is expected to strengthen Unilever's Beauty & Wellbeing portfolio within the U.S. market space, Grüns addresses nutritional gaps in kids and adults by providing comprehensive and real nutrition gummies formulated from 60 ingredients including nutrient-dense and whole foods. Chad Janis, Founder and CEO of Grüns commented on the significance of Unilever's investment for the brand, “Our customers are the reason Grüns exists, and this partnership is ultimately for them. With Unilever behind us, we can reach more people, move faster, and continue raising the bar on what an enjoyable daily wellness habit can be.”
Pending customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions, the transaction is expected to be completed later this year. Unilver Wellbeing CEO, Jostein Solheim, spoke on the opportunity presented by the latest acquisition, “We are thrilled to welcome Grüns into the Unilever family. As a leader and true innovator in the Greens Supplement category, what sets Grüns apart is its focused portfolio of science-backed products that people genuinely enjoy, trust, and consistently use. This combination of efficacy and experience is powerful, and together we see a significant opportunity to scale the brand within our Wellbeing business.”
Eurofins Recognized with SuppCo's TrustScore App Ranking
Eurofins Supplement Testing and Eurofins Assurance's Certifications have been incorporated into the SuppCo TrustScore supplement quality rating system. SuppCo, a trusted supplement tracking mobile app, uses TrustScore technology to evaluate products across 39 quality attributes, including manufacturing standards, independent laboratory testing, and ingredient transparency. Both programs provide coordinated support to supplement producers and brands throughout the certification process:
- Eurofins Supplement Testing is an analytical laboratory known for its use of advanced methodologies, scientific depth, and extensive testing coverage for dietary supplements and ingredients.
- Eurofins Assurance network supports customers with third party certification expertise to help them meet regulatory, safety, and retailer expectations within the supplement and food sectors.
The recent news highlights each program as a third party supplement verification while validating TrustScore as a comprehensive benchmark and giving brands greater visibility. Products certified under the Eurofins’ Certified Dietary Supplement and Clean Sport Certified programs are reflected within SuppCo’s evaluation of key quality attributes, including manufacturing standards, independent testing, and ingredient transparency.
BGG Debuts New Concepts at Vitafoods Europe
From May 5-7, the annual nutraceutical, functional food, and dietary supplement industry trade show, Vitafoods Europe, will be taking place in Barcelona, Spain. BGG will be presenting their latest concepts including its "Dream Team" of ingredients with a wide range of formulation possibilities. Guests can stop by Stand 246 in Hall 3C to learn more about the ingredients including:
- ApplePhenon: Apple extract rich in procyanidins for weight loss and metabolic health.
- TheraPrimE: Tocotrienol, available in oil and water-dispersible powder formats, improvements to memory and reduce sleep disorders and associated issues such as fatigue, decreased attention span, and mood swings.
- AstaZine: Astaxanthin, natural antioxidant from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae can be used in supplements, gummies, and beverages.
“Consumers are looking for convenient and clinically supported solutions that help them look and feel great – and our Dream Team can provide the perfect match," explained Tamara Higgins, BGG’s Managing Director for Americas and Head of Western Regional Sales. "ApplePhenon, TheraPrimE, and AstaZine are natural, science-backed, versatile ingredients that support total body and mind wellness.”
BGG Americas’ Chief Scientific Officer, Lixin Ding, will be taking the stage at the Nutraceuticals Showcase Theatre, on Tuesday, May 5 at 1:30pm to discuss the details of the scientific research behind the company's ingredients and formulation options.
NXT USA and Laila Nutra Co-Exhibiting at Vitafoods Europe
NXT USA will partner with Laila Nutra Private Ltd. to highlight their portfolio of clinically validated, branded ingredients at the 2026 Vitafoods Europe event. Guests will have the opportunity to stop by Stand 3G188 to learn about the comprehensive collection of differentiated, science-backed ingredient solutions available to supplements brands including:
- Xeya Modern Shatavari: A high-potency, low-dose shatavari supporting hormone balance, reproductive health, and menopausal symptoms.
- BluNADBooster: NAD+ ingredient shown to increase NAD+ levels, cognitive performance, energy, and endurance.
- Digexin: Digestive health solution that supports digestive regularity and comfort.
- TamaFlex: Fast-acting joint health ingredient that delivers rapid relief and long-term joint structure benefits.
“We’re excited to be in Barcelona with Laila Nutra and connect with forward-thinking Brands from around the world,” said Eric Anderson, Managing Director of NXT USA. “The industry is moving past fad ingredients and hyperbolic claims and toward demonstrated performance. Brands want ingredients that not only stand out but also stand up to scrutiny. That’s exactly where we focus.”
Artemis Becomes U.S. Distribution Partner of InSea2
Artemis International is now the sole distribution partner of innoVactic's seaweed based glucose control ingredient, InSea2. Made from brown seaweeds sustainably harvested in the North Atlantic Ocean and manufactured in Canada, InSea2 is clinically supported ingredient that supports blood sugar management and metabolic health. "This partnership with Artemis is rooted in shared values and common drivers — a strong commitment to science, meaningful differentiation, deep ingredient expertise, and a dedication to improving people’s well-being,” explained Patrice Dionne, CEO of innoVactiv. “With 115 million Americans affected by prediabetes, partnering with Artemis enables us to expand access to our science-backed InSea2 and support individuals seeking to maintain healthy blood glucose levels."
News of the collaboration demonstrates Artemis International focus to broaden its offerings to include a wide array of botanicals. “We are thrilled to begin working with innoVactiv and this amazing ingredient,” said Leslie Gallo, President of Artemis International. “We strive to find unique, innovative ingredients that provide natural solutions to health issues, and alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Blood sugar regulation remains a significant issue for so many, and InSea2 has the science showing just how powerful it is in reducing blood sugar spikes and overall metabolic health – one of the keys to longevity."
