Contract Research Organizations (CROs) have emerged as valuable partners offering a range of services to support research and development efforts of nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage applications, cosmetics, and other industries. CROs are staffed with multidisciplinary teams of scientists, researchers, and registered dietitians who collaborate to offer a diverse portfolio of services tailored to their client’s needs. CRO’s scientific consulting and literature assessment services provide insights, guidance, and support to researchers, businesses, manufacturers, and institutions across various fields.

Scientific consulting services provide expert advice in the fields of research and development. The employees providing these services have extensive experience and expertise in a particular scientific discipline. Their expertise allows them to offer valuable insights and solutions on various research topics. These consulting services offer a wide range of areas including experimental design, data analysis, interpretation or results, and literature reviews.

Literature assessment services are focused on evaluating the existing literature relevant to a particular topic. This involves systematic reviews and analyses of published research articles, reports, and other sources to identify key findings and trends for further investigation. Literature assessments allow researchers and manufacturers to stay informed about the latest developments in their field, identify new opportunities, and identify new product innovation opportunities.

Narrative Reviews

Narrative reviews are a type of literature review that provides an overview and analysis of recent or existing research topics. These reviews do not employ a standardized methodology and offer more flexibility in terms of scope, comprehensiveness, and analysis.

A recent review focused on the connection between fiber types and appetite regulation and energy intake through systematic searches of randomized controlled trials in healthy adults.  The review encompassed 136 studies, comprising both acute and chronic interventions. The review concluded that most fibers did not significantly affect appetite ratings and energy intakes. The review highlighted the complexity of research in fiber and appetite and the need for further investigation of evidence on the potential benefits of extracted and isolated fibers in appetite regulation and body weight management.

Evidence Mapping

Evidence mapping is a systematic approach to organizing, mapping, and characterizing the existing literature on a topic to identify gaps. This type of approach is the initial step in the systematic review or meta-analysis process setting the foundation for advanced exploration of research. The term evidence mapping is also used interchangeably with other review methodologies, such as scoping reviews or systematic mapping, each of which has distinct characteristics.

In a evidence mapping study aimed to assess the relationship between intake of industrial trans fatty acids (iTFA) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, the researchers identified 32 independent clinical trials that included at least one intervention or control group with iTFA at 3% or less.”. The researchers searched relevant databases and identified 32 independent clinical trials that included at least one intervention or control group with iTFA at 3% or less. The findings showed a wide range of interventions were used limiting the ability to determine an isolated effect of iTFA intake. The study highlighted the need for further research to clarify the associations between iTFA intake and coronary heart disease.

Review of Reviews

A review of reviews, also known as an umbrella review, compiles evidence from multiple systematic reviews to identify gaps in the literature, consistency of evidence, and recommendations for future research. By aggregating and synthesizing data from multiple sources, a review of reviews offers a broader perspective, identifies patterns and inconsistencies in the literature, and informs evidence-based decision making. In addition, this type of review includes quality assessment and risk of bias.

In a recent umbrella review on egg consumption and cardiometabolic health, multiple databases were screened in which seven systematic reviews and fifteen meta-analyses were identified. The meta-analyses included were of moderate to high quality, while the systematic reviews were of overall low quality. The findings of the meta-analyses suggested that there was no association between increased egg intake and the risk of heart disease or stroke in the general population. The review suggests that further research is needed to clarify associations between egg consumption and heart failure, T2DM risk, and CVD risk in diabetics before firm conclusion can be drawn.

Systematic Review

A systematic review is a comprehensive search of existing research evidence on a specific research topic in question using explicit methodology. Unlike other types of reviews, a systematic review follows a defined protocol and provides qualitative analytical findings. Systematic reviews provide a transparent and unbiased summary of the available evidence in research, including quality assessment/risk of bias of included articles.

A recent systematic review aimed to evaluate the scope and breadth of publicly available literature on the relationship between 100% fruit juice consumption and tooth erosion in humans. A systematic search was conducted across three databases, resulting in 17 relevant publications representing 14 studies. Both prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the search. Evidence from prospective cohort studies found no association between fruit juice intake and tooth erosion, while evidence from RCTs in adults suggests that 100% fruit juice consumption may contribute to tooth erosion and dental caries.  Authors of the review indicate the existing evidence on 100% fruit juice intake and dental caries and tooth erosion are inconclusive due to limitations in sample sizes and short-term study durations.

Meta-Analysis

Meta-analysis is a systematic statistical technique used to synthesize data from multiple studies on a specific topic. By pooling data from various sources, meta-analysis uses statistical methods to calculate an overall effect size of a particular intervention offering insights into patterns and trends across different research settings. Meta-analyses incorporate exhaustive, systematic searching across multiple databases and provide quantitative analysis of measures of effect assuming the absence of heterogeneity.

In a meta-analysis study, the efficacy of cranberry in preventing urinary tract infections (UTI) recurrence among generally healthy women was investigated. The data was analyzed from seven randomized-controlled trials involving 1,498 participants and indicated that cranberry reduced the risk of UTI recurrence by 26%. Additionally, the analysis indicated that some studies showed high risk of bias, particularly in terms of loss to follow-up or selective outcome reporting. While the meta-analysis shows the potential of cranberry as a preventative measure of UTI in women, larger and higher-quality studies are necessary to confirm the results.

Summary

Biofortis provides comprehensive scientific consulting and literature assessment that leverages the expertise of multidisciplinary teams to deliver solutions for researchers, businesses, and manufacturers across a multitude of industries.

For more information on our services, email us at biofortisresearch@mxns.com.

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Biomarkers include a wide range of things, including proteins, genes, metabolites, hormones, and other molecules that are measurable in biological samples (blood, urine, tissue, or saliva). The discovery of biomarkers is a crucial step in various fields, including medicine, clinical research, and diagnostics, and serves many important purposes.

What Biomarker Discovery Does

There are many examples of things biomarker discovery helps with. These things include helping doctors and researchers both identify and make recommendations for dealing with specific conditions.

Disease Diagnosis

Biomarkers can help in the early and accurate diagnosis of diseases. For example, specific proteins or genetic markers in blood can indicate the presence of certain cancers.

Disease Prognosis

Biomarkers can provide information about the likely course of a disease, its severity, and the potential response to treatment. This information can guide healthcare decisions.

Treatment Selection

Identifying biomarkers associated with drug response allows for the selection of the most effective treatment options for individual patients, a field known as personalized or precision medicine.

Monitoring Disease Progression

Biomarkers can be used to track the progression of diseases, such as the measurement of certain enzymes in heart disease patients to assess heart function.

Predictive Biomarkers

Some biomarkers can predict an individual’s susceptibility to a disease or adverse events. For example, certain genetic markers can indicate an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Pharmacodynamic Markers

Biomarkers can be used to monitor the effects of drugs on the body and ensure that the intended biological responses are occurring.

How Biomarker Discovery Works

The process of biomarker discovery typically involves a few steps that can differ from field to field.

Biomarker Hypothesis

Researchers formulate hypotheses about potential biomarkers based on existing knowledge, clinical observations, or data from previous studies.

Biomarker Screening

High-throughput technologies, such as genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, are often employed to screen a large number of potential biomarkers in biological samples.

Data Analysis

The collected data is analyzed to identify statistically significant associations between specific biomarkers and the condition or process of interest.

Validation

Candidate biomarkers are further validated using independent datasets or additional experiments to confirm their reliability and relevance.

Clinical Testing

Promising biomarkers are evaluated in clinical studies involving patient populations to assess their diagnostic or prognostic value.

Regulatory Approval

If a biomarker proves to be clinically useful, it may undergo regulatory approval processes, such as those set forth by the FDA, before being used in clinical practice or diagnostics.

Clinical Implementation

Once validated and approved, biomarkers can be integrated into clinical practice for disease diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment decision-making.

Biomarker discovery is a constantly evolving field, driven by advances in technology and our increasing understanding of the molecular and genetic underpinnings of diseases. It holds great promise for improving disease diagnosis and treatment, as well as advancing our understanding of complex biological processes.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

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Prebiotics and Probiotics

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that nourish beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed. The food industry is increasingly incorporating prebiotics and probiotics into a wide range of products, including yogurt, fermented foods, and dietary supplements, among others. Prebiotics & probiotics are primarily used to promote gut health.

• Prebiotic Supplements. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Prebiotic supplements are available in various forms, such as powders or capsules. They often contain ingredients like inulin, chicory root fiber, or resistant starch.
• Probiotic Supplements. Probiotics are live microorganisms (usually beneficial bacteria) that can provide health benefits when consumed. Probiotic supplements come in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and gummies.

Fermented Foods

Fermented foods, such as kimchi, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut, are gaining popularity due to their potential to introduce beneficial microbes to the gut and support digestive health.

Many fermented foods are natural sources of live probiotics and can be purchased OTC. This has driven many food industry professionals to look more closely into popular fermented foods.

Personalized Nutrition

Advances in microbiome research were leading to the development of personalized nutrition recommendations. Companies were exploring ways to tailor diets and food products based on an individual’s unique gut microbiome composition.

Plant-Based and Fiber-Rich Diets

Diets rich in plant-based foods and dietary fiber were being recognized for their positive impact on gut health. The food industry was responding by creating more plant-based and fiber-rich products.

Functional Foods

Functional foods with added ingredients targeting gut health, such as resistant starches, soluble fibers, and polyphenols, were being developed to appeal to health-conscious consumers.

Gut Microbiome Testing

Companies were offering at-home microbiome testing kits that allowed consumers to analyze their gut microbiota and receive personalized dietary recommendations based on the results.

Synthetic Biology

Researchers were exploring the potential of synthetic biology to engineer probiotics with specific functionalities, potentially offering novel approaches to gut health through food products.

Mood and Mental Health

Emerging research suggests a connection between the gut microbiome and mental health. Food products and supplements marketed as “gut-brain axis” supporters were becoming more prominent.

Potential Concerns for the Gut Microbiome Food Industry

As the food & nutrition industry continues to incorporate gut microbiome-related products into regular staples, some concerns have been raised. Concerns are primarily related to regulating a relatively new industry and how sustainability will affect research & development moving forward.

Regulatory Considerations

Regulatory agencies were beginning to evaluate the need for specific regulations related to probiotics and health claims associated with gut health. Establishing clear guidelines for labeling and marketing was an ongoing process.

Sustainability

Sustainability concerns were driving innovation in gut health products. Companies were exploring ways to make probiotics and prebiotics more environmentally friendly, such as through sustainable sourcing and packaging.

Clinical Research Findings

Ongoing clinical research was uncovering more about the links between the gut microbiome and various health conditions, from obesity and diabetes to autoimmune diseases. The food industry was paying attention to these findings for potential product development opportunities. Clinical research findings will have to be meticulously carried out to find as many positives and negatives as possible.

Given the rapid pace of research in the field of gut microbiome science and its relevance to health, it’s likely that new trends and breakthroughs will continue to emerge at a rapid pace.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

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Why Substantiating Food Industry Claims Is Important

Substantiating claims in the food industry is a critical part of ensuring that marketing and labeling claims made about food products are truthful, accurate, and supported by scientific evidence. These claims can encompass various aspects of a product, including nutritional content, health benefits, sourcing, and production methods.

How Substantiating Food Industry Claims Works

There is a general process that must be followed to substantiate food industry claims to get approval on labeling & marketing.

Food Claim Development

Companies develop specific claims they want to make about their products. These claims may relate to health benefits (low in fat, high in fiber, etc), food sourcing (all-natural, organic, etc), or production methods (non-GMO, etc).

Research

To support these claims, scientific research is often conducted. This research often involves laboratory studies, clinical trials, nutritional analyses, and other forms of scientific investigation. If a product claims to be heart-healthy, studies may be conducted to demonstrate its impact on heart health.

Gathering & Analyzing Data

Data is collected and analyzed during the research process to provide evidence for the claim. This data may include nutritional content, ingredient analysis, health effects, consumer preferences, and more.

Legal and Regulatory Reviews

Companies must ensure that their claims comply with applicable laws and regulations. Food regulatory authorities, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have specific requirements for food labeling and advertising claims. Most companies consult with legal experts to navigate these regulations.

Third-Party Verification

In some cases, companies seek third-party verification or certification for their claims. Independent organizations or certification bodies may assess and verify that the product meets certain standards or criteria. A good example is the USDA Organic label is a third-party certification for organic products.

Documentation and Records

It is essential to maintain thorough documentation of the research, testing, and verification processes. This documentation can be crucial in case of legal challenges or regulatory inquiries.

Finalize Labeling and Marketing

Once claims are substantiated and verified, they can be used in product labeling, advertising, and marketing materials. Companies must ensure that these claims are clearly and accurately communicated to consumers.

Legitimate Consumer Education

In addition to making claims, companies often provide information to educate consumers about the benefits and attributes of their products. This can include nutritional facts, ingredient lists, and explanations of specific claims.

Regular Monitoring and Compliance

Even after a product is launched, companies must monitor its compliance with claims and regulations. Regular testing and quality control measures help ensure that the product continues to meet its claimed standards.

Prepare for Future Challenges

If consumers or regulatory agencies raise concerns or challenges about a claim, the company must be prepared to address them promptly and transparently. This may involve further research or modifications to the claim.

The Importance of Substantiating Claims

Substantiating claims in the food industry is a rigorous process designed to protect consumers from false or misleading information. The process is also designed to allow companies to communicate the genuine benefits and qualities of their products. Claim substantiation is subject to oversight by regulatory authorities and may involve legal consequences if claims are found to be unsubstantiated or misleading.

The food industry claims substantiation process is designed to protect both consumers and producers.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

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GMO Usage

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are used in food primarily to introduce specific traits or characteristics into crops and agricultural products that can benefit both producers and consumers. These genetic modifications are made through biotechnology techniques, such as genetic engineering. There are many reasons GMOs are used in the food industry:

• Increased Crop Yield
• Pest Resistance
• Chemical Tolerance (herbicides, fertilizers, etc)
• Crop Disease Resistance
• Improved Nutritional Content
• Extended Shelf Life
• Reduced Allergens
• Crop Adaptation

The use of GMOs in food has been a subject of debate and controversy due to concerns about their safety, potential environmental impacts, and labeling. Some countries have implemented regulations to govern the cultivation and sale of GMOs, and consumer preferences vary regarding GMO-containing products. As a result, the use of GMOs in food production is a complex and highly regulated issue.

The Importance of GMO Testing

There are several important reasons for conducting GMO testing. GMOs are still being researched and little is known about the long-term consequences of heavy use in food. Some of the most important reasons GMO testing is essential include:

GMO Regulatory Compliance

Many countries have regulations in place that require the labeling of food products containing GMO ingredients. GMO testing helps ensure compliance with these regulations and provides consumers with information about the presence of GMOs in the products they buy.

GMO Product Quality Control

GMO testing is used by food manufacturers and producers to verify the accuracy of labeling claims and to maintain the quality and consistency of their products.

Supply Chain Information

Companies involved in the production and distribution of agricultural products use GMO testing to track and manage the presence of GMOs in their supply chains.

Standardized Research and Development

Scientists and researchers use GMO testing to study the characteristics and effects of genetically modified organisms, both in the laboratory and in the field.

GMO Testing Methodology

GMO testing is conducted in many different ways. Testing procedures can vary by industry. Some of the most common methods for GMO testing include:

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Testing

PCR is a molecular biology technique that amplifies specific DNA sequences. In GMO testing, PCR can be used to detect and quantify the presence of DNA sequences that are specific to genetically modified organisms.

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) Testing

ELISA is an immunological assay that detects the presence of specific proteins. In GMO testing, it can be used to detect and quantify the expression of genetically modified proteins.

DNA Microarray Testing

DNA microarrays are tools that allow the simultaneous analysis of thousands of DNA sequences. They can be used to identify and characterize the genetic makeup of a sample, including the presence of GMOs.

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Testing

NGS technologies can provide detailed genetic information about an organism, making them useful for identifying GMOs and their genetic modifications.

GMO testing plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety, transparency, and compliance with regulations related to genetically modified organisms. It allows consumers to make informed choices about the products they consume and helps maintain the integrity of the food supply chain.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

Learn about the Non-GMO food Movement at Merieux Nutrisciences.

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As with any field, exciting finds lead to trends. Trends in the dietary and food industries are typically types of foods and specific supplements. Some trends are more publicly visible than others–cognitive health related to dark chocolate–but why? What leads some foods to be featured as beneficial to cognitive function? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular (and recent) cognitive health food & dietary trends.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, trout, and herring, are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These omega-3 fatty acids have been extensively studied for their potential benefits to cognitive health.

Berries

Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries, are rich in antioxidants and compounds that may have neuroprotective effects. Berries are specifically known for their high levels of antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, as well as various phytonutrients like flavonoids and anthocyanins. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and reduce cellular damage, which are associated with cognitive decline.

Kale

collard greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may support brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Kale contains dietary fiber, which supports gut health. Emerging research suggests that a healthy gut microbiome can influence brain health through the gut-brain axis.

Legumes

Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, which help provide a steady supply of energy to the brain. Legumes have exhibited beneficial properties related to antioxidants, blood sugar, carbohydrate content, and fiber content.

Avocado

Avocado is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, both of which have been associated with brain health. Avocado research is still going strong, with many popular fields of research including:

• Blood sugar regulation
• Monosaturated fat content (another field in its own right)
• Antioxidant properties
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Micronutrient synergy

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is rich in compounds called flavonoids, which have been studied for their potential positive effects on cognitive health. Flavonoids are a type of polyphenol, a group of naturally occurring plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Varieties with higher cocoa content (70% or higher) and minimal added sugars seem to be the most beneficial. Like any type of candy, however, dark chocolate should be eaten in moderation and requires a balanced diet to show any beneficial effects.

Importance of a Balanced Diet

While many of the dietary trends listed above provide potential cognitive benefits, they are just one aspect of a holistic approach to cognitive well-being. Incorporating any type of new food into a balanced diet also requires regular physical activity, adequate sleep, cognitive engagement, stress management, and other healthy lifestyle practices to reach its full potential. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is advised before any major dietary shifts.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

The post Cognitive Health Food Trends appeared first on Biofortis Research.

Health Assessment

A comprehensive assessment of an individual’s health status and medical history is the best way to evaluate your body’s current state and needs. This includes evaluating existing medical conditions, allergies, intolerances, medications, and dietary restrictions.

Nutrient Requirements

Based on the individual’s age, gender, activity level, and health goals, a calculation of daily nutrient requirements is performed. This includes macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).

Energy Expenditure

The individual’s energy expenditure, which includes their basal metabolic rate (BMR) and physical activity level, is estimated. This helps determine their caloric needs, which can then be adjusted based on their goals, such as weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain.

Dietary Restrictions

Personal dietary preferences, cultural considerations, and food allergies or intolerances are taken into account. This ensures that the recommended diet aligns with the individual’s tastes and values.

Health Goals

Whether the individual’s goal is to manage a medical condition (e.g., diabetes, heart disease), lose weight, gain muscle, or simply maintain good health, these objectives influence the composition of their dietary plan.

Meal Patterns and Timing

The distribution of meals and snacks throughout the day, as well as the timing of meals relative to physical activity, can be personalized based on an individual’s routine and preferences.

Dietary Nutrient Density

A focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide a high concentration of essential nutrients per calorie is recommended. This approach ensures that the individual’s dietary needs are met without excessive calorie consumption.

Dietary Monitoring

Regular monitoring of progress and adjustments to the dietary plan may be necessary. Feedback from the individual about their adherence, preferences, and any changes in their health status informs these adjustments.

Professional Monitoring/Checkups

Formulating personalized dietary needs often involves input from registered dietitians, nutritionists, or healthcare professionals. These experts can interpret complex nutritional science and tailor recommendations to an individual’s specific circumstances.

Sustainability

An important aspect of personalized dietary planning is making sure the recommendations are sustainable for the long term. The plan should promote healthy eating habits that can be maintained over time.

Dietary Adherence

Addressing behavioral aspects of eating, such as emotional eating or portion control, is important for successful dietary changes. Behavioral strategies can be integrated into the personalized plan.

Formulating dietary needs at an individual level is a multidimensional process that takes into account biological, medical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. A personalized approach acknowledges that each person has unique requirements and challenges, aiming to create a dietary plan that optimally supports their health and well-being. While generalized approaches and diets can be helpful, they are never a replacement for an individualized plan.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

The post Formulating Dietary Needs appeared first on Biofortis Research.

Key Components of Individual Dietary Needs

Macronutrients

• Carbohydrates. Provide energy and are the body’s primary source of fuel. Different types of carbohydrates (simple and complex) have varying effects on blood sugar levels.
• Proteins.Essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and serving as enzymes and hormones.
• Fats. Important for energy, insulation, protecting organs, and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Micronutrients

• Vitamins. Organic compounds required in small amounts for various physiological functions. They support immunity, metabolism, and other processes.
• Minerals. Inorganic elements necessary for diverse bodily functions, including bone health, fluid balance, and nerve transmission.

Caloric Intake

Calories represent the energy derived from food. Balancing caloric intake with energy expenditure is important for maintaining a healthy weight.

Hydration

Sufficient fluid intake is essential for maintaining bodily functions, electrolyte balance, and overall well-being.

Fiber Intake

Dietary fibers aid digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and can help manage blood sugar levels and cholesterol.

Nutrient Needs

Some individuals may have higher dietary needs for certain nutrients due to factors like growth, pregnancy, lactation, medical conditions, or specific dietary restrictions.

Adequate Intake of Essential Nutrients:

Essential nutrients are those that the body cannot synthesize and must be obtained from the diet. Ensuring an adequate intake of these nutrients is crucial for health.

Dietary Balancing

A balanced diet includes a variety of foods from all food groups to ensure that all necessary nutrients are consumed.

Individual Needs

Dietary needs can also be influenced by individual goals, such as weight management, athletic performance, or specific health concerns.

While general guidelines for dietary needs exist, individual requirements can vary. Consulting with a registered dietitian, nutritionist, or healthcare professional is the best way to ensure a person can determine their specific dietary needs. Meeting these dietary needs through a balanced and varied diet is essential for promoting overall health and well-being.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

The post What are Dietary Needs? appeared first on Biofortis Research.

LcS has exhibited survivability in the GI tract across populations in many different countries. The objective of a recent study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition was to validate this survivability in the United States, where evidence is lacking. Results of the study showed traces of LcS in 23/25 participants.

Why does LcS survive so well in the GI tract of healthy adults?

Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota & the GI Tract

The survival of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) in the gastrointestinal tract of generally healthy individuals can be attributed to several factors.

Strain Characteristics

The specific strain of LcS (Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Shirota) has been extensively studied for its survival and potential health benefits. Different strains of bacteria can exhibit varying survival and colonization abilities.

Resistance to Acidic Environments

The stomach has a highly acidic environment due to the presence of gastric acids. LcS is known to be relatively resistant to low pH levels, which allows it to survive the acidic conditions of the stomach and reach the intestines where it can exert its beneficial effects.

Tolerance to Bile

Bile salts are secreted in the small intestine and can be harsh on some microorganisms. LcS has been shown to possess tolerance to bile salts, allowing it to survive and pass through the bile-rich environment of the small intestine.

Adhesion and Colonization

Probiotics need to adhere to the intestinal lining to exert their benefits. LcS has mechanisms that enable it to adhere to the mucosal lining of the intestines, which helps it colonize the gut and interact with the host’s cells.

Immunomodulation

LcS can modulate the immune response of the host. This interaction with the immune system might help it establish a presence in the gut by promoting a favorable environment.

Short Transit Time

The transit time of food through the gastrointestinal tract can impact the survival of probiotics. Fermented milk products, like yogurt, often have a relatively short transit time, which can enhance the chances of probiotics surviving and reaching the intestines.

 LcS has primarily been studied for its potential health benefits and survivability in the gastrointestinal tract. The survival and efficacy of probiotics can vary based on individual factors such as diet, overall gut health, and the presence of other gut microorganisms.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

Source: The probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) in a fermented milk beverage survives the gastrointestinal tract of generally healthy U.S. Adults. Published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition August 16, 2023.

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Having fulfilled all regulatory requirements, including obtaining a “No Question” letter from the FDA, approval for product labels from the USDA, and the USDA Grant of Inspection (GOI), these companies are now one step closer to bringing their cultivated meat products to the market, signifying a historic achievement for both of them.

Alternative Meat Products

The production of meat cultivated from animal cells offers a potential solution to current environmental sustainability challenges. Studies indicate that these alternative protein production methods can reduce the environmental carbon footprint, improve resource efficiency, decrease antibiotic use, and diversify protein sources.

Ensuring Cultured Meat Manufacturing Safety

Considering the implications of these recent approvals and the future of the cultured meat industry, there is a need for harmonized and minimal analytical methods to ensure the safety, quality, and acceptability of these products. 

Validated official methods and authentic reference materials are essential as these products enter the market. Mérieux NutriSciences (MXNS), a partner for traditional and innovative food producers, is prepared to contribute to this industry’s progress. They aim to collaborate with stakeholders to address consumer acceptance and regulatory compliance challenges.

Mérieux NutriSciences Services

Mérieux NutriSciences is the parent company of Biofortis Research. While Biofortis works solely from within the United States, Mérieux NutriSciences conducts research, development, and services on a global scale.

Mérieux NutriSciences offers a range of capabilities, including nutrition and sensory profiling, process optimization, and shelf-life extension. They have initiated collaborations with prominent analytical organizations like the Association of Official Analytical Collaboration (AOAC International). 

Furthermore, Mérieux NutriSciences is organizing a scientific session and discussion at AOAC’s annual meeting and exposition in New Orleans on August 30 to further these efforts. Their goal is to develop validated official analysis methods in partnership with key stakeholders to ensure the safety and acceptability of these novel products.

With their expertise in analytical chemistry and microbiology, Mérieux NutriSciences is committed to producing high-quality and safe products for their customers. Their unwavering dedication to customer safety drives their mission to propel this industry toward a promising future.

Research at Biofortis

Biofortis is dedicated to protecting consumer health throughout the world by delivering a wide range of testing and consultancy services to the food, supplement, and nutrition industries. Biofortis supports this mission in two ways—through clinical trials and sensory and consumer insights testing. We specialize in clinical research targeting foods, ingredients, and dietary supplements that affect body structures, function, and overall health. Contact us with any clinical trial or scientific consulting needs.

Original article posted by Mérieux NutriSciences.

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