Naturex Highlights Innovations in Heart Health & Vitamin C

05.21.18

Sweoat Brans, Aronox aronia berry extract, and Acerolife took centerstage.

Natural ingredients with proven benefits for cardiovascular wellbeing were a major focus for Naturex at Vitafoods Europe 2018. The company highlighted Sweoat Brans, a new oat beta glucan-based solution that delivers a range of EFSA-approved heart health benefits. Alongside this the company showcased its Aronox aronia berry extract, shown to improve a number of biomarkers for cardiovascular health including endothelial function, which is important for better blood circulation. Naturex also discussed Acerolife, a premium extract highly-standardized in naturally occurring vitamin C sourced from the acerola cherry.
 
Beta Glucans for Good Heart Health
Following its acquisition of Swedish Oat Fiber last year, Naturex developed Sweoat, a high-quality source of beta glucans with benefits for heart health and beyond. This powerful ingredient has European approval to carry health claims for cholesterol reduction (Article 14.1) and maintenance of cholesterol levels (Article 13.1). In addition, it is authorized to carry claims for glycemic response and gut health (both Article 13.1). Sweoat offers fiber and protein content and contains all of the essential amino acids, as well as healthy antioxidants. Just one 11g scoop of Sweoat contains the same amount of beta glucans as 750ml of oat drink and three bowls of oat cereals—and significantly fewer calories.
 
Sweoat is suitable for use in a wide range of food and beverage applications and in conjunction with probiotics. At Vitafoods Europe, Naturex showcased the potential for product development with Sweoat in a range of prototype instant drink formulations.
 
Improved Circulation with Aronia Extract
Naturex’s heart health line-up at Vitafoods Europe included Aronox, an extract of aronia that delivers cardiovascular benefits supported by several published peer-reviewed clinical trials, including improvements to circulation. The latest clinical study (soon to be published), conducted with 55 healthy men aged 18-45, demonstrated that Aronox significantly improves endothelial function just two hours post consumption, compared with a placebo, and after three months continued use (Rodrigues-Mateos, et al). Meta-analyses have shown that improving endothelial function by 1% leads to an 8-12% reduction in the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
 
New Premium Source of Natural Vitamin C
Also in the spotlight at the Naturex booth was Acerolife, a highly standardized source of natural vitamin C (up to 34%) derived from acerola cherries grown in Brazil. It is processed carefully in order to preserve the fruit’s naturally high vitamin C content. The resulting ingredient, Acerolife, is so rich in vitamin C that a lower dose is required to achieve 100% of recommended daily intake. It is ideal for dietary supplements and functional food & beverage products and is sourced via an acerola supply chain that is compliant with Naturex's Pathfinder sustainability program.