Lonza has been granted U.S. Patent 10,016,382 for L-Carnitine use in pet food for its beneficial impact on performance and recovery in active dogs. Proven to help maintain lean muscle mass by reducing muscle degradation and oxidative stress resulting from intense physical exercise, the patent confirms evidence that small daily doses of Lonza’s Carniking L-Carnitine may positively enhance quality of life and function for active dogs and working animals, such as service dogs and tracking dogs. Other applications are pending in Brazil, Canada, Europe and Japan.
 
L‑Carnitine’s role in helping both animals and humans utilize dietary fat for energy production is well established, namely that it shuttles long- and medium-chain fatty acids across the outer and inner-mitochondrial membrane so they can be metabolized and converted into energy. L-Carnitine has an ingredient definition by the Association of American Feed Control Officers (AAFCO) for use in the manufacturing of dog foods, wet and dry treats, and in complete feeds, base mixes or premixes.
 
In four canine research studies sponsored by Lonza Consumer Health & Nutrition (CHN), Carniking L-Carnitine was shown to improve exercise performance, activity as well as lean mass, muscle recovery and oxidative stress during strenuous exercise. The latest published research in 2017 included three clinical studies conducted at Four Rivers Kennel LLC with a total of 96 Labrador Retrievers, a typical working and service dog. The studies demonstrated the significant positive benefits of L-Carnitine on post-exercise activity and body composition in these active dogs, when compared with placebo, from just one daily 250 mg dose of Carniking L-Carnitine for a period of 14 weeks. 
 
“Bringing together 30 years of investment and discovery in L-Carnitine, Lonza’s new patent for L-Carnitine as Carniking highlights our continued commitment to exploring its health benefits for both animals and humans. Backed by robust science, the patent confirms that L-Carnitine is good for both you and for your dog,” said Kevin Owen, PhD global business development head- Companion Animals at Lonza CHN and co-author of the patent.