GWI, Natreon, Robinson Pharma Inc., Fette Compacting America, Nexira and Icelandirect all announced recent achievements related to their innovative natural ingredients and production capabilities.

GWI announced positive test results for Nattokinase after testing by Analytical Laboratories in Anaheim Inc. The product quality exceeded standard level 20000 FU/g by 62.9 percent with an active ingredient at 32580 FU/g. Natto has been consumed safely for thousands of years for its health benefits, according to the company, while Nattokinase can dissolve fibrin directly and enhances the production of clot-dissolving agent such as Urokinase t-PA. More recently, both clinical and non-clinical studies have demonstrated that Nattokinase supports heart health and promotes healthy circulation.

Research also helped CAPROS^® from Natreon receive a U.S. patent (8,962,576) for endothelial function improvement, based on a clinical study demonstrating its cardiovascular benefits. The claims in the patent cover endothelial function improvement and increase in production of nitric oxide and lipid levels by an extract of Phyllanthus emblica. It is based on the clinical data in type 2 diabetics, as well as pre-diabetic subjects. FDA also sent a “no questions" letter to Natreon for the use of Capros in non-alcoholic beverages, processed fruits and fruit juices, and cereals at levels up to 150 milligrams per serving. The company also has a self-affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status for Capros.

Robinson Pharma Inc. recently completed the implementation phase of vegetarian softgel encapsulation capabilities to its array of dosage forms. The encapsulation-production benchmark features a patented starch and carrageenan vegetarian gel matrix. In coming months, the company will work toward commercialization of this production process.

In addition, Fette Compacting America was recognized with the Editor’s Choice Exhibit Award for the first-time display of its entire FE series of tablet presses at INTERPHEX NYC, held April 21 to 23, 2015. Introduced for this year’s show by INTERPHEX and Pharmaceutical Processing Magazine, the Exhibitor Awards recognized cutting-edge technologies and value-added solutions that enable biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing companies to achieve business and production goals and objectives. The INTERPHEX award recognized Fette’s three-machine FE series of tablet presses, which were displayed side-by-side. Headlined by the North American debut of the FE75 double-sided press, the two other models include the FE55 and FE35. The core design philosophy threading its way through the FE series is that of Fette’s Tri.Easy concept, which represents the simplification of the three primary aspects of tablet press use: changeover, operation and maintenance.  

Nexira also announced an accomplishment after receiving FEMA GRAS status (#4820) for purified damar gum to be used as a flavor stabilizer in the United States, which allows the company to offer a new interesting ingredient for clean label formulations. Damar gum is a unique, natural flavor stabilizer for the flavor and beverage industries thanks to its plant-based origin, functional properties, ease of use and resistance to oxidation. Nexira markets purified damar gum under the brand name DAMAR-EZ™.

Last but not least, Icelandirect announced the award of Friend of the Sea Certificate No. 540-2013-FFW in recognition of its sustainably-harvested fish oil products and its commitment to the environment. Friend of the Sea is an international certification project for products originated from both sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Certified products from all continents include most of the traded species, fishmeal, fish feed and omega-3 fish oil. Products and their origins are audited on site by independent international certification bodies, against strict sustainability criteria. The requirements follow the FAO guidelines for the ecolabelling of fish and fishery products from marine capture fisheries. Only products from stocks which are not over-exploited can be certified.