NEW YORK—Nagase America acquired the complete Leci-PS® phosphatidylserine brand, a line of soy-based phosphatidylserine (PS) products for supplement and functional food applications.

Phosphatidylserine is a naturally occurring phospholipid found in high concentrations in the brain, and it is essential for many processes associated with healthy mental function. This acquisition shows Nagase’s increased focus on meeting the health needs of an aging population.

“A recent study by the Natural Marketing Institute placed brain health as the No. 1 health concern among people 60 years and older," said Bradley Hilborn, director of business development at Nagase America. “The cognitive effects of phosphatidylserine are documented in a wealth of clinical trials, showing benefits in name and face recognition, misplaced object recall, and long-term memory. Phosphatidylserine has also been shown to have benefits for stress and exercise recovery."

While phosphatidylserine is found in small amounts in soybeans and dairy products, supplementation with Leci-PS can increase PS intake to levels that studies suggest lead to benefits. Leci-PS can be incorporated into a variety of applications—not only traditional delivery methods, such as capsules and gels, but also functional foods and beverages, such as milk and chocolate.