Stephen Daniells

Researchers from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences found that Balchem’s choline-enriched L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (Optifolin+) significantly increased S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) levels and enhanced DNA methylation in human cell models over 96 hours. Optifolin+, a combination of L-5-MTHF and choline, demonstrated 2.6 times greater bioavailability and 3.5 times faster absorption than standard folic acid in a 2025 clinical study, leading to higher plasma concentrations of active folate. These findings support the ingredient’s potential for improving methyl-donor status and epigenetic health, offering a more effective alternative to traditional folic acid supplementation.

This week’s brief tracks news that highlights the importance of demonstrable safety, verified ingredient authenticity and precise consumer targeting, particularly in rapidly evolving categories such as women’s health and healthy aging. Featured news includes: Australia’s TGA will remove Andrographis paniculata from permitted supplement ingredients by September 2026, following reports of unpredictable severe allergic reactions. Botanical ingredient adulteration remains a persistent issue, with adulteration rates highest for gingko and other herbs due to supply chain pressures and economic factors, despite industry efforts to improve quality control. Meanwhile, perimenopause is emerging as a distinct supplement category, with brands like Ritual launching targeted, hormone-free formulas designed to address the broader physiological changes women experience during this life stage.

A pilot randomized controlled trial found that eight weeks of supplementation with ProGo, an upcycled salmon protein hydrolysate, led to improvements in systemic inflammation, glycemic control, and body composition in overweight adults, compared to whey protein isolate. ProGo supplementation increased hemoglobin, red blood cell count, and ferritin, and was associated with better hair, nail, and skin health, as well as reduced HbA1c, fasting glucose, and body fat measures. These effects, not observed with whey protein, suggest ProGo’s benefits are bioactive rather than purely nutritional. The findings highlight ProGo’s potential to support healthy aging across multiple biological domains.

A New Jersey legislator has introduced Assembly Bill A5487 to prohibit the sale of certain weight loss and muscle building supplements, including those containing creatine and green tea extract, to minors, requiring age verification and imposing fines for violations. This measure is part of a broader trend of state-level proposals, many linked to the STRIPED initiative, aiming to restrict youth access to specific supplements, despite industry pushback and mixed scientific evidence regarding their link to eating disorders. Federal efforts, such as H.R. 7366, seek to prevent states from enacting stricter laws than federal regulations, but progress remains uncertain. New York is the only state to have passed such a restrictive law so far.

Terry Lemerond, founder of EuroPharma and a pioneer in the dietary supplements and natural products industry, passed away on September 3, 2026. Remembered as a visionary innovator, tireless advocate, and mentor, Lemerond was known for introducing clinically researched ingredients to the U.S. market, formulating over 500 products, and supporting quality research and education throughout his decades-long career. He built several influential companies, championed independent retailers, and inspired many with his commitment to credible, science-based health solutions and personal empowerment. Lemerond’s legacy continues through the employee-owned EuroPharma and the many industry leaders and consumers he influenced.

A study from Asahi Quality and Innovations in Japan found that a single dose of heat-treated Lactobacillus gasseri CP2305, a postbiotic, increased brain alpha activity and improved parasympathetic nervous system function in healthy adults, suggesting relaxation and reduced stress. The double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 28 participants showed significant improvements in mental stress scores and increased serotonin secretion, indicating a gut-brain mechanism. The findings highlight CP2305 as a promising functional food ingredient for mental health, though further research is needed to clarify mechanisms and broader applications.

California has enacted AB 2030, imposing new age restrictions on dietary supplements for weight loss and muscle building, raising industry concerns about regulatory ambiguity and signaling a potential nationwide trend toward heightened state-level oversight. Meanwhile, a new precision fermentation facility in France aims to accelerate biotech ingredient innovation, and PDRN is gaining traction as a next-generation beauty supplement ingredient in South Korea, reflecting the growing influence of K-beauty. Additionally, the Sports & Active Nutrition Summit USA will relocate to Dallas in 2027 to accommodate growth and broaden its focus to include metabolic health and weight management as the boundaries between supplement categories continue to blur.

A Japanese study of 529 older adults found that lower whole-blood NAD+ levels are associated with increased frailty, supporting NAD+ as a potential biomarker for healthy aging. While a small increase in NAD+ correlated with a 13% reduction in frailty risk, the association weakened after adjusting for blood cell composition, and causation was not established. Experts highlight the need for future research focusing on cell- and tissue-specific NAD+ measurements. Nicotinamide riboside and NMN have been shown to raise NAD+ levels, but further longitudinal studies are needed to clarify their impact on frailty.

This week's nutraceutical industry developments highlight tightening regulations and technological advancements. The Netherlands is proposing stricter controls on certain botanicals in supplements, while the UK’s advertising regulator flags widespread non-compliance in supplement marketing, especially online. Innovation is driving the sector, with projects like Those Vegan Cowboys’ cow-free casein and industry calls to broaden omega-3 sources beyond fish oil, while mergers such as HTBA’s acquisition of Specnova underline a growing focus on advanced delivery systems and premium assets. Overall, brands face increased compliance demands and a shift toward science-based product differentiation.

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that daily supplementation with standardized Shatavari root extract (SRI-81) for eight weeks improved Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores and reduced sexual distress in women, with no serious adverse events reported. The combination of Shatavari and Ashwagandha (KSM-66) produced even greater improvements, suggesting an additive effect. The study, involving 135 women, also noted Shatavari’s traditional use in Ayurveda for female reproductive health, though researchers cautioned that larger, longer-term studies are needed to confirm these findings.