Vitafoods Insights Podcast

From blood tests, questionnaires and biomarkers identification, we explored with LOEWI the concept of personalised supplements, made differently for each consumer to meet their individual needs.  For this podcast episode, Philipp Merk, co-founder of https://loewi.com/en/ (LOEWI), a spin off start-up company, joined us to share more about personalised nutrition and the work LOEWI is doing to take push innovation within the industry and meet consumers’ specific needs for achieving optimal results.  Tune in to hear about:  The importance of discussing personalised nutrition  LOEWI’s funding story and mission  Why consumers benefit from focusing more on a personalised approach  How can blood tests be used as a metric for consumers to keep an eye on their nutritional progress and goals  LOEWI’s education and knowledge sharing  LOEWI’s next steps in expanding the business with DNA and microbiome space  Guest: Philipp Merk, Co-founder of https://loewi.com/en/ (LOEWI) If y

Insights on some of the topics discussed at Vitafoods Europe 2021 hybrid event. In October, Vitafoods Insights dived into some topics covered at https://www.vitafoods.eu.com/en/welcome.html (Vitafoods Europe 2021 hybrid event), where we covered a range of topics including gut health, personalised nutrition, women in nutra, pharma and nutra, sustainability, healthy ageing, brand leadership positioning, regulatory considerations among many others, some of which we explored in more depth. Tune in to hear more about: Gut and digestive health—important considerations, innovations and the evolution of the industry Women in nutra—how can we ensure the nutraceutical industry offers flexibility, support and embraces women at work and their career development  Women participants in research and clinical trials— what is the current gap and needs?  Sustainability—how can the industry make better decisions? What are the opportunities available for the industry to become more actively engaged in sustainable pract

Exploring how sustainable practices can lead the nutraceutical industry to leverage food waste by-products into profitable ingredients and products.  For this sustainability series podcast episode, Debora Campos, founder and CEO of https://agrogrintech.com/ (AgroGrIN Tech) startup, joined us to share more about how sustainability practices and action points can lead the industry to partake into and drive a circular economy. Tune in to hear about:  The importance for nutraceutical industries to consider new solutions for a more sustainable future AgroGrIN Tech new technologies and processes’ benefits  AgroGrIN Tech’s first case study helping a company to become more sustainable The steps to consider when implementing a circular economy through the supply chain Industry’s whitespaces and the focus of startups to help the industry help to tackle these and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Guest: Debora Campos, founder and CEO of https://agrogrintech.com/ (AgroGrIN Tech) If you like the show

The European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) shares commercial opportunities for hemp and key industry updates.  For this podcast episode, Lorenza Romanese, the managing director of the European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) joined us to share more hemp.  Tune in to hear about:  The European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) and its mission Why should business owners in the nutraceutical and functional food/beverage industry take a chance on hemp? The legal situation for CBD and other hemp food products The work EIHA is undertaking to provide science-based information when it comes to the level of safety of hemp food products Insights on the future of hemp foods and food supplements in Europe Guest: Lorenza Romanese, managing director of the European Industrial Hemp Association If you do like the show, make sure to subscribe and follow the https://the-vitafoods-insights.captivate.fm/ (Vitafoods Insights podcast). Feel free also to recommend the show to a friend that you think

Consumers are looking for unique ways to address stress and enhance focus; however, Clutch Cognition developed its ‘solution’ from the science, not market whitespace, route. In an increasingly digital and connected world, consumers are constantly plugged in and engaged. While this has boosted connectivity, in many cases, it has also led to challenges in keeping focus and raised stress levels. At the same time, there is a greater awareness of the potential of nutrition to enhance whole body wellness—body and mind. What could a solution look like that took the best of ingredient science and delivered it in a convenient format? Rune Rønhave Laursen, the CEO and founder of Clutch Cognition, sought to put this connection into action. After working for more than a decade in nutrition and biotechnology, he was intrigued by myriad ingredients with benefits to cognitive wellness that had solid scientific substantiation. Over several years, he put his ‘biohacking’ expertise to work to yield a new solution. Tune in to h

Insights on brand communication strategies, go-to-market guidance, social responsibility and more. In September, Vitafoods Insights explored topics including brand marketing communications in the post-COVID landscape, tips on go-to-market strategies and partnering with manufacturers, and guidance on developing a comprehensive sustainability strategy. Catch up on what you might have missed this past month: New https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/market-trends/four-ways-covid-19-driving-trends-consumer-nutrition (research) on how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted consumers’ interest in health and wellness products Understanding https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/business-operations/discover-value-corpsumer-communications (‘corpsumer’ communication), and https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/business-operations/understanding-corpsumer-communicationpodcast (tips to make it work) for your business Opportunities for https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/market-trends/will-sportspeople-embrace-insect-protein-supplementation (inse

Investigating how the nutraceutical industry can – and must – tackle the global issue of malnutrition.  The nutraceutical industry aims to provide more nutrition to more people, but worldwide 1 in 3 people in the world suffer from malnutrition. Ahead of her contribution to the sustainability panel discussion at Vitafoods Europe 2021, Christina Nyhus Dhillon, Senior Technical Specialist at the https://www.gainhealth.org/homepage (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition,) explains why the nutraceutical industry must take responsibility for the nutrition of its supply chain in order to meet consumer demand, see a return on investment and tackle the problem of global hunger. Tune in to learn about:  The relationship between malnutrition and the nutraceutical industry How brand can promote the importance of a socially sustainable supply chain How businesses can employ transparency and certifications to testify to the sustainability of their products The business case for ensuring workforce nutrition How

A walk through the concepts and values of Corpsumer communications— when traditional B2B thought leadership meets B2C consumer communications. As part of https://www.vitafoods.eu.com/en/welcome.html (Vitafoods Europe 2021), Gillian Fish, CEO at The 6AM Agency will share her expertise on the topic of ‘Leveraging 'Corpsumer communication' for brand leadership’. Ahead of her presentation, she joined us and commented on:   The socio-cultural trends are impacting health and nutritional product categories in this pandemic era; and how these trends are influencing marketing and communications strategies for raw material and finished goods brands What is a ‘Corpsumer communication’ strategy and how has it been influenced by thought leadership? And what are the foundational strategies and tactics for a successful Corpsumer communications strategy?   The tools brands need to get started with a Corpsumer communications approach ESOV and measurement metrics to assessROI For more information on the va

Unpacking the developments driving forward a trusted supply chain. There’s increasing buzz around transparency as consumers and supply chain stakeholders alike push for full disclosure of ingredient origins and product manufacturing. But the definition of transparency for food supplement brands, and importantly, what a ‘transparent’ reality looks like for end consumers still requires some fine tuning.  New technologies are making it possible to turn transparency into reality, but will brands invest? As part of https://www.vitafoods.eu.com/en/welcome.html (Vitafoods Europe 2021,) Len Monheit, CEO at Trust Transparency Center, will be delivering a presentation about the evolution of transparency within the industry, consumer data and understanding, and highlighting how companies can practically build transparency into their supply chain to connect science, business and consumer.  In this podcast, hear about:  How transparency is defined in the eyes of Trust Transparency Center The consumer expect

Regulations impacting probiotic ingredients and finished products vary across geos and categories, but IPA is on the case. Probiotics continue to draw attention worldwide, with an estimated one in four adults consuming probiotics in the last six months, according to a new survey conducted by Kerry. In fact, the online survey results showed nearly half (49%) of respondents in China had used such a product, followed by 42% of respondents in Mexico. And just as usage rates differ, the way these products are regulated varies by market. The International Probiotics Association (IPA) aims to promote the safe and efficacious use of probiotics throughout the world, and is recognized as the unified ‘Global Voice of Probiotics.’ Its executive director, George Paraskevakos, speaks globally around the opportunities for the sector, including connecting directly with regulators around the world to ensure these products have clear paths to market. IPA recently released the Global Regulatory Manuscript, detailing how probiot

Insights on sustainability, cognitive health, nutraceutical regulations and more. In August, Vitafoods Insights explored topics such as sustainable practices, cognitive health and mental wellbeing as well as trends around regulatory practices in both the EU and ASEAN regions. Catch up on what you might have missed on this past month: What does the newly released report by https://www.ipcc.ch/2021/08/09/ar6-wg1-20210809-pr/ (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)) mean to the nutraceutical industry when it comes the https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/sustainability-and-transparency/investing-sustainable-nutritionpodcast (industry greenhouse emissions) and https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/sustainability-and-transparency/sustainable-packaging-pitfalls-avoidpodcast (packaging considerations)?  https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/ingredients/functional-beersa-healthy-non-alcoholic-alternative-traditional-beers (Functional beers) as a healthy alternative to traditional beers  The market trends for

Investment round allows Comet Bio to invest in a dedicated manufacturing facility to grow the supply of upcycled ingredients and innovation. Recently completing its series c round of fundraising led by Open Prairie, https://comet-bio.com/ (Comet Bio) will now be able to invest in a dedicated manufacturing facility to grow the supply of its upcycled ingredients.  For this sustainability series podcast episode our guests Rich Troyer, CEO at https://comet-bio.com/ (Comet Bio) and Tom Doxsie, partner at https://www.openprairie.com/ (Open Prairie) share insights about how sustainability is driving investment decisions and businesses operations. Tune in to hear more about: How the production of upcycled ingredients contribute to broader sustainability initiatives, and why is that important at Comet Bio Comet Bio’s internal and public-facing commitments to sustainability How sustainability is shaping investment decisions these days What about Comet Bio was attractive for investors?  Advice and lessons lear

Honest lessons from a health brand’s packaging journey. With sustainability high on the agenda of multiple industries and consumers, many brands are exploring meaningful changes that can be implemented across the supply chains of products and services. In addition to reforming sourcing and manufacturing practices, FMCG brands are challenged with addressing waste associated with packaging.  However, even small changes can yield complications that can test a brand’s ability to move forward. One such example is https://pepandlekker.com/ (Pep & Lekker), a healthy snack brand retailing in the UK that recently embarked on a journey to rethink how finished products are packaged to consumers.  In this podcast, co-founder Susan Gafsen shares the company’s trials and tribulations as it sought out packaging alternatives that uphold its commitment to sustainability. Tune in to hear more about:  The pressure on brands to respond to industry and consumer demand surrounding sustainability concerns  T

Exploring the expanding cognition, nootropics and eGaming category opportunities. When it comes to mental performance, everyone is looking for an edge. Cognitive support isn’t just for the ageing demographics, as interest in nootropics spans generations, from professionals tackling fast paced workplaces to younger demos involved in eGaming seeking a competitive edge. There are different nutritional ingredients with great synergies that have the ability to fuel unique formulations. In this podcast, sponsored by https://www.prinovaglobal.com/eu/en?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=prn_brand_uk&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImcWSspaS8gIVz-F3Ch0KRwG0EAAYASAAEgJ5YfD_BwE (Prinova), you’ll hear more about:  Key drivers for the cognitive health industry Consumer demographics including their preferences and health goals Nutritional ingredients that support different aspects of focus and performance The new opportunities in applications and new product development Guest: Tony Gay, Head of Technical Sale

Insights on healthy ageing, mental wellbeing, supply chain and more. As the global pandemic continues to impact business around the globe, understanding the opportunities it opens up and the challenges it poses to your business is critical. In July, Vitafoods Insights explored these issues in a variety of ways. Take a few minutes to catch up on the insights you may have missed that could trigger new thinking in your product ideation and go to market strategy. Tune in to hear more about: The continued impact of https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/business-operations/theres-no-vaccine-shipping-delays (shipping delays) on the nutraceutical supply chain https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/sports-nutrition/unlocking-nutrition-support-through-digital-ecosystems-athletespodcast (Research) suggesting even Olympians aren’t meeting their macronutrient needs How https://www.vitafoodsinsights.com/ingredients/functional-chocolate-20 (functional chocolate) may serve as a unique delivery format Market whitespace to explore rela

Reviewing a decades’ worth of information on sustainable practices across the nutraceutical industry.  Prof. Rupesh Kumar Pati has recently published in Decision Sciences the article “Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals-2030 through the nutraceutical industry: A Review of managerial research and the role of operations management” (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/deci.12515 (https://doi.org/10.1111/deci.12515)), which addresses the current flow of management literature information on the nutraceutical industry.  In this podcast episode, Prof. Pati shares insights on: Lessons learnt from reviewing a decade worth of information on the nutraceutical industry: sustainable systems and pillars   The role the nutraceutical industry plays in addressing the https://sdgs.un.org/goals (United Nations sustainable development goals) when it comes to malnutrition and undernourishment How public-private partnerships and stakeholders from the nutraceutical industry offer more support towards

Young company, TINY Technologies, has cracked the code on optimised systems that address bioavailability challenges for notoriously tricky ingredients. Ingredient and food supplement manufacturers are often challenged with the low bioavailability nature of a number of different ingredients—which usually have relayed effect on the dosage, side effects, delivery, efficacy, and even compatibility with other ingredients in finished products. In fact, approximately 40-50% of ingredients within the supplement market are fat-soluble and suffer from low bioavailability. It’s not uncommon to see supplement brands advising additional dosing of a supplement to improve levels of intake, but often this causes unpleasant side effects for the end user, which can also turn out to be harmful to health.  Tune into this podcast with Tobias Meller, CEO at https://tiny-technologies.com/ (TINY Technologies), to hear more about:  The challenges when formulating ingredients with low bioavailability  The mechanisms of

For athletes at the very top of the sport, nutrition plays a pivotal role in fuel, muscle health, inflammation, and recovery. While this might seem obvious, former professional athlete turned personalised nutrition specialist notes that a surprising portion of athletes do not prioritise or understand nutrition to its fullest potential.  In a digitally driven world, athletes have the highest level of access to information about their bodies—and importantly their individual needs—than ever before. Sporting professionals, coaches, and athletic associations are leveraging technology to advance personalised insights with the goal of making intelligent nutritional recommendations that boost optimal performance. However, recent studies suggest athletes might not have sufficient access to the necessary information surrounding nutrition and how to apply it correctly.  In this podcast, Timo Spring, former professional athlete now founder and CEO of https://prevess.de/ (Prevess), discusses the need to provide

Exploring growth and investment opportunities in the Mauritius nutraceutical sector. Mauritius is one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, characterised by high levels of unique and diverse species. Research undertaken by various players such as the Mauritius Research Council, the University of Mauritius, the Mauritius Oceanography Institute, and private companies have revealed great potential for developing the nutraceutical sector. Farmers, suppliers, research organisations and nutraceutical companies all have opportunities to be a part. In this podcast, sponsored by the Mauritius Economic Development Board, you’ll hear more about:  The potential of nutraceuticals in Mauritius The various indigenous plants with nutraceutical benefits Productivity and return on investment for the seven most promising plants Incentives available to organisations investing in the nutraceutical sector Guest: Dr Drishty Ramdenee, director, Mauritius Economic Development Board

Ayurveda, the science of life, connects body, mind and spirit; the botanical ingredients that form its foundation are now fuelling innovation across the global nutraceutical industry. Dr Muhammed Majeed, founder of https://sabinsa.com/ (Sabinsa), was recently recognized with an award from the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India as the ‘Father of Indian Nutraceuticals Industry’ and late last year received the Zandu International Oration award from the Indian Association for the study of Traditional Asian Medicine for ‘excellence in the field of biology and research on Ayurvedic products.’ Tune in to hear more about: How Sabinsa pioneered the introduction of standardised botanicals from India into the global market. The critical importance of scientific research to show efficacy Why standardisation was the key to opening the door to new markets Opportunities for the future of the India nutraceutical market Intellectual property as the foundation of consumer trust Formulating products for and c