The Natural Algae Astaxanthin Association (NAXA), Salt Lake City, UT, has expanded its verification program to include retail product testing. The Verification Program for members was introduced in 2015 to provide confidence in the integrity of member products to NAXA members, the industry and general public. NAXA tests each manufacturer’s product at independent labs using the most advanced methods, including the U.S. Pharmacopeia standard. This analysis confirms that all the tested samples have the same fingerprint indicating the source of the astaxanthin used is from Haematococcus pluvialis algae. NAXA also verifies the assay content of the manufacturer’s sample in comparison to the statements included on the Certificate of Analysis. In addition to passing these tests, prospective members must also pass manufacturing facility inspection, and confirmation of all certificates and validations result in the ability to join the Association as an Executive Member and use the NAXA Verification Program Seal on the products’ Certificate of Analysis.

The new NAXA Retail Testing Program involves testing products available to consumers to verify they contain natural algae astaxanthin derived from Haematococcus pluvialis algae. NAXA uses independent labs utilizing HPLC equipment to identify and confirm the source of the astaxanthin used and the assay in comparison to the label claim on the dietary supplement facts panel listed on the product. Verified products are reported to members who can then vote to offer the NAXA Verification Program Seal. Products that are not verified are reported to the product manufacturer for correction. This process assures consumers and industry that they are using natural algae astaxanthin, which is the most researched and efficacious form of astaxanthin available.