PEA to alleviate joint pain in pets
Saanroo announced the publication of a peer-reviewed clinical study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science evaluating Levagen+ (palmitoylethanolamide, PEA) for joint health in companion animals. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 50 dogs and 50 cats over a 6-week period and assessed mobility, comfort, and functional outcomes in animals experiencing joint pain. In dogs receiving Levagen+, 76% were classified as successfully treated compared to 40% in the placebo group, with significant improvements across multiple pain and functional interference measures. In cats, significant between-group differences were observed in functional tasks such as jumping up and down, along with reductions in “pain today” scores at weeks 2 and 6.
The study showed the ingredient significantly improved mobility, comfort, and functional outcomes in dogs and cats with joint pain. Researchers also determined that Levagen+ was well tolerated in both species and supports its potential as a non-NSAID option for pet joint health formulations.
“This first published companion animal study of Levagen+ is an important milestone for the brand,” said John Quilter, CEO of Saanroo. Quilter noted that the findings suggest the science behind Levagen+ extends beyond human health applications and opens new opportunities in companion animal wellness, particularly for supporting mobility and daily function in aging pets.
Biotics for pet metabolic health
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study published in the peer-reviewed journal Animals evaluated ADM’s PRIOME Metabolic Health (PRIOME MH), a probiotic and heat-treated postbiotic form of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145, in adult dogs. Conducted in 45 healthy dogs, the study assessed the effects of daily supplementation on metabolic health markers during phases of induced weight gain and weight loss. Researchers reported that during the weight-loss phase, dogs receiving PRIOME MH showed a significant reduction in postprandial blood glucose compared with those receiving placebo.
The study adds to ADM’s growing evidence base for postbiotics in companion animal nutrition and highlights potential applications for canine metabolic health, including weight management and blood glucose regulation. This clinical trial has demonstrated the potential role of PRIOME MH postbiotic to support canine metabolic health, ADM shared. The findings were described as advancing understanding of postbiotic applications in an underserved area of pet nutrition focused on metabolic health.
Postbiotic for improved stool quality in dogs
Kingdom shared the news of a second peer-reviewed study on Kingdom’s Superculture Pet Immune ingredient, published in the journal Pets. Researchers reported improvements in stool quality among healthy dogs with loose stools after 28 days. In the placebo-controlled study, 50% of dogs receiving Superculture Pet Immune showed improvement, compared to 10% in the placebo group. Researchers also reported a significant improvement in stool quality by day 28 using the Waltham Fecal Score, while gut health markers including pH, dry matter, IgA, calprotectin, and short-chain fatty acids remained within healthy ranges throughout the study. The research additionally found changes in 16 different gut bacteria in the treatment group compared to one in the placebo group.
The findings build on a previous peer-reviewed study of Superculture Pet Immune published in Animals, which reported results related to itching, skin and coat health, and gut microbiome diversity.
“What makes this study so meaningful is that it shows a clear, statistically significant improvement in stool quality—an outcome other postbiotics have struggled to demonstrate,” said Aylesse Sordillo, Ph.D., principal scientist of clinical development at Kingdom. According to the company, the two published studies together provide clinical evidence supporting improvements in stool quality, skin and coat health, occasional itching, and gut microbiome diversity in pets.
EPA, DHA & choline for long-term brain health & healthy aging
A new preclinical study has found that Lysoveta, Aker BioMarine’s brain health ingredient containing EPA, DHA, and choline in lysophosphatidylcholine form, delivered EPA and DHA across the brain’s protective barriers. Researchers reported significant enrichment of EPA and DHA in brain tissue and at the brain’s protective barriers, including in mice carrying the APOE4 gene, a genetic risk factor associated with late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. In APOE4 mice, the study also observed shifts in DHA-related metabolites, indicating activation of relevant brain pathways despite no significant increase in bulk DHA levels.
Lysoveta is designed to deliver EPA and DHA in a form recognized and transported across brain barriers via the MFSD2A pathway. “Our results show that Lysoveta can enrich brain-related tissues with EPA and DHA, supporting its potential as a targeted nutritional strategy for brain health,” said Dr. Mélanie Plourde of Université de Sherbrooke. Dr. Plourde added that the distinct response observed in APOE4 mice underscores the importance of genotype-specific approaches.
This is the third study on Lysoveta to demonstrate neuroprotective effects and significant enrichment of EPA and DHA in brain tissues. “With a growing burden of brain-related diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia, research into how nutrition can support brain health has never been more important,” says Matts Johansen, CEO of Aker BioMarine. He added: “Each study brings us closer to understanding what Lysoveta can mean for brain health. The results so far are encouraging. As people live longer and the global population ages, the number of those affected by brain-related diseases will continue to rise and we need more research to address it."
SDA for heart, brain & metabolic health
A systematic literature review examining more than 120 published papers from the past decade highlights growing research interest in omega-3 stearidonic acid (SDA) as a sustainable complement to marine omega-3 sources. The review reports that SDA research has increased by 40% over the last 10 years and concludes that SDA-rich oils, particularly Buglossoides arvensis (branded as Ahiflower from Natures Crops International), can effectively improve or maintain EPA and DHA status in brain, heart, liver, and adipose tissues. According to the review, dietary SDA oils raise EPA levels in humans approximately 2.5 to 4 times more than omega-3 ALA-only oils, while research on Ahiflower oil showed improvements in EPA status within a similar range to EPA/DHA dietary trials.
The review also summarizes research suggesting that SDA-rich oils support DHA turnover in the brain and liver, with recent studies indicating that Ahiflower oil can form and replace DHA more rapidly than flaxseed oil due to its SDA content. Researchers additionally highlighted evidence linking SDA to anti-inflammatory effects, endothelial function, insulin sensitivity, metabolic response, and neuroprotection.
“This first systematic literature review of omega-3 SDA adds important support for brands, brand holders, and co-manufacturers in supplements, foods, and beverages who are earnestly looking for ways to achieve better nutrient-density, insulin sensitivity, and whole-body anti-inflammatory ‘look well, move well, feel well’ benefits,” said Greg Cumberford, Science Lead at Natures Crops International. The authors concluded that SDA-rich plant oils such as Ahiflower and echium may help address omega-3 deficiencies while reducing reliance on marine sources.
In more news from Natures Crops International, an 8-week mouse study published in Lipids compared dietary Ahiflower oil, echium oil, and soya oil, assessing omega-3 levels in tissues and blood at equal intake levels. Researchers reported that all three oils maintained heart and brain DHA levels comparably, while both Ahiflower and Echium oils significantly increased red blood cell DHA levels compared with soya oil. The authors noted: “Echium and Ahiflower oils at the dose applied in our study could provide enough ALA+SDA to maintain the needs in high-priority tissues, such as brain and heart.” The study also found that Ahiflower and Echium oils increased EPA levels more than soya oil, with Ahiflower producing significantly greater increases in red blood cell, plasma, and brain EPA levels than either Echium or soya oil.
Researchers further reported that Ahiflower oil lowered omega-6 arachidonic acid (ARA) levels across all tissues and blood compared with soya oil, and in plasma and liver compared with echium oil. Commenting on the findings, Cumberford, said: “This new animal study supports dietary Ahiflower oil for its heart health and exercise performance value, notably for raising EPA across all tissues studied including the heart, and more significantly in RBCs and plasma than Echium oil. It also shows how the body closely controls DHA accrual in heart and brain tissues thought to benefit most from higher omega-3 intakes. This is a different story, challenging the dominant view that plant-based omegas are ‘poorly’ converted to DHA. Rather it demonstrates the mammal body’s affinity for plant-based ALA+SDA sources which significantly raise EPA and maintain DHA levels across the whole body. When DHA is required to support brain and heart function, the body rapidly and efficiently makes it.”
Saffron extract to support mood, stress response & sleep
Maypro shared new clinical and delivery research on SaffonX, its branded saffron extract standardized for crocin and safranal content and produced using Solifuze technology. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 56 adults aged 18–65 with self-reported low mood, daily supplementation with SaffonX over 56 days resulted in statistically significant improvements versus placebo in validated measures of emotional well-being and mood balance, positive emotional outlook, perceived stress and emotional resilience, sleep quality, and blood cortisol levels. Benefits were observed by day 28 and maintained through day 56, and the ingredient was found to be safe and well tolerated.
A separate in vitro pH release study evaluated the performance of the Solifuze delivery system. Researchers reported that under simulated stomach conditions (pH 1.2), only 20–30% of crocin was released over two hours, while approximately 70% was released under simulated intestinal conditions (pH 6.8) during the remainder of the five-hour test period. The findings suggest that Solifuze technology protects the active compounds in gastric conditions and supports targeted intestinal release.
“These results underscore the value of saffron as a well-studied botanical for mood and emotional wellbeing support, while reinforcing the importance of quality, standardization, and delivery technology,” said Abhijit Natu, Vice President of U.S. Nutrition at Maypro, which is the exclusive U.S. distributor of Xtractiva Lifescience’s botanicals, SaffonX and Garl-X.
Priorities for children's nutrition
FrieslandCampina Ingredients published a global report based on qualitative research examining purchase decision drivers in children’s nutrition for the 3–12 age group. The findings highlight four key “non-negotiables” shaping parental expectations: immune support as a baseline requirement, gut microbiome support as a foundation of overall wellbeing, clearer framing of cognitive and emotional health claims, and demand for multi-benefit solutions in convenient, child-friendly formats. The report notes that while innovation is active in both infant and adult nutrition, the 3–12 segment remains underserved despite representing a critical stage of growth and development.
The research also emphasizes regional variation in how parents interpret and prioritize health claims, particularly around brain health terminology such as “focus,” “learning ability,” and “development.”
“Parents are more informed, selective and vocal about their preferences than ever before. Yet the category is still finding its footing in meeting those expectations,” said Kim Stadman, Sensory & Consumer Research Specialist at FrieslandCampina – Product & Taste Expertise Team. Stadman added that successful innovation depends on aligning science, language, and format with real-world parental expectations to deliver clearer, more relevant solutions in children’s nutrition.
Choline for brain network efficiency post-menopause
Clinical research published in Nutrients used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to evaluate the effects of choline on brain network efficiency in post-menopausal women, using Balchem’s VitaCholine ingredient. The pilot, randomized, cross-over study included 20 healthy women aged 50–65 who consumed 1650 mg of choline (as VitaCholine) or placebo before completing a working memory task during an fMRI scan. Researchers observed that, compared with placebo, choline intake significantly increased functional connectivity within the working memory network, indicating improved brain network efficiency approximately three hours after consumption.
The study authors noted that estrogen decline during menopause may increase the risk of choline deficiency, as choline is required for acetylcholine synthesis involved in memory, mood, and attention. “What makes this study unique is that it utilized functional MRI scans and working memory exercises to capture an objective view of how brain networks respond to choline intake after menopause,” said lead author Professor Julie A. Dumas of the University of Vermont. Dumas added that the findings provide insight into how targeted supplementation may support cognitive function during a key stage of women’s health.
“Investing in women’s health research is something we feel very strongly about at Balchem,” added Eric Ciappio, Ph.D., RD, Senior Manager, Nutrition Science, Balchem HNH. “In the past, so much of nutrition science was largely shaped by male-centric studies and the assumption that these findings were also applicable to women’s health. This study is part of an essential shift towards a greater understanding of women’s specific nutritional needs and how we as an industry can better support them at every stage of life. VitaCholine is our premium, high-quality choline ingredient with a robust clinical track record, and it continues to be at the heart of pioneering research. We’re excited about these preliminary results and are already building on them with further research underway.”
Squalene for metabolic benefits
A study published in Scientific Reports investigated the potential metabolic effects of squalene, a naturally occurring bioactive compound, in rats with alloxan-induced type 1 diabetes. The study included four groups: healthy control, alloxan control, and two treatment groups receiving squalene at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg over 30 days. Researchers assessed a wide range of biomarkers, including blood glucose, HbA1c, insulin, lipid profile, kidney and liver function markers, antioxidant status, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Results showed that squalene supplementation, particularly at the 200 mg/kg dose, significantly reduced HbA1c levels (p<0.0001), approaching levels observed in healthy controls, alongside improvements in insulin-related parameters and reductions in inflammatory markers.
Squalene supplementation was observed to:
- Support healthy glucose levels over time
- Promote insulin activity, suggesting benefits for cellular energy regulation
- Improve lipid balance and liver glycogen content, supporting metabolic function
- Reduce inflammatory signals, indicating potential wellness support
- Support pancreatic and kidney function markers, highlighting broader cellular support
“The findings suggest that squalene may act as a multi-target metabolic support compound, particularly through its interaction with pathways related to energy metabolism, oxidative stress and inflammation,” said Dr. Ariati Aris, Scientific Affairs Specialist at PhytoGaia.
Bryan See, Vice President of PhytoGaia, added: “Squalene may offer a natural, multi-pathway approach to enhancing wellness and supporting balanced metabolic function. At PhytoGaia, we offer STGaia, a novel (first of its kind) plant squalene + tocotrienols/tocopherol complex – naturally extracted from palm fruits as a synergistic complex. We are delighted to engage with brand owners to facilitate the development of science-driven products employing our award-winning branded ingredient - STGaia®. Available in various forms STGaia can be incorporated into a range of formats and dosages, including softgels, gummies, hard-capsules, tablets, and functional foods or drinks."
Berberine for metabolic support
Zeus Hygia announced new clinical and pharmacokinetic findings for Metaberine, a bioavailable form of berberine developed using the company’s proprietary BioSOLVE technology. In a pharmacokinetic study comparing 200 mg Metaberine with berberine extract powder, researchers reported that Metaberine achieved a maximum concentration (Cmax) 37 times greater than berberine powder, reached peak levels in 30 minutes compared to 8 hours, and demonstrated a nine-fold increase in bioavailability based on AUC0-t measurements.
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial involving 36 participants, supplementation with 200 mg Metaberine for 14 days resulted in a 23% increase in GLP-1 secretion, an 8% reduction in fasting blood glucose, a 14% decrease in post-prandial glucose spike, and a 2% reduction in LDL cholesterol. “Metaberine outperforms conventional berberine, as our studies demonstrate,” said Dr. Arunkanth Krishnakumar, co-founder and director of Zeus Hygia. Krishnakumar added that Metaberine offers a natural, clinically supported, low-dose alternative to GLP-1 therapies for metabolic health support.
Carrot-derived ingredient for immune support
NutriLeads has shared findings published in the Journal of Medical Virology showing that its precision prebiotic fiber Benicaros, a carrot-derived rhamnogalacturonan-I (cRG-I), supports the repair of nasal epithelial cells following a viral challenge. The results are based on transcriptomic analysis from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial using a rhinovirus challenge model. Researchers found that Benicaros influenced the expression of genes involved in early antiviral immune responses as well as pathways associated with nasal epithelial cell repair during recovery from infection.
The analysis showed that Benicaros significantly affected the sequence and intensity of genes regulating antiviral and epithelial repair pathways, suggesting supplementation was associated with a more effective response to infection. “By supporting both the body’s initial response to viral exposure and the recovery of the airway barrier, Benicaros helps maintain the integrity of one of the body’s key lines of defense,” said Sue McKay, Ph.D., Nutrition & Health Manager, NutriLeads. Dr. René Lutter, principal investigator of the study, added that the findings suggest Benicaros may influence the regrowth of cilia on nasal epithelial cells, potentially supporting recovery following infection.
Probiotic for active nutrition
Probi, part of Symrise Group, shared clinical research on its probiotic strain LP299V (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v) evaluating biomarkers associated with kidney function, muscle stress, and gut inflammation during endurance running. In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 32 experienced runners consumed either LP299V (10 billion CFU) or placebo daily for four weeks before participating in races ranging from 20 km to 164 km.
The finding: Endurance running increased markers of kidney stress and gut inflammation, with more pronounced effects observed during ultra-endurance events exceeding 100 km. Analysis of urine and fecal biomarkers showed that LP299V supplementation was associated with a reduced increase in biomarkers related to tubular kidney injury, including composite biomarker TKIBC1 and MCP-1. The probiotic also significantly reduced exercise-induced gut inflammation, as measured by fecal calprotectin (p<0.001).
“These findings highlight the potential of LP299V to support the body’s response to the physiological demands of endurance exercise,” says Gunilla Önning, Senior Science Manager at Probi. “By modulating inflammatory responses and supporting gut barrier function, LP299V may help athletes maintain resilience during prolonged physical activity.”
