Mike Straus is a freelance writer living in Kelowna, Canada. He has written for publications including Canadian Chiropractor Magazine, Massage Therapy Canada, and Iconic Concierge Vancouver.
Elders & betters: Elderberry research is validating the hype
Elderberry has long been immune health’s golden child. But when hype runs ahead of science, the whole industry suffers. What does the research say about this beloved ingredient?
Immune health beverages: What do brands need to know before jumping into immunity drinks?
Tips for formulating for maximum efficacy and consumer appeal
2022 FTC Forecast: What’s the Federal Trade Commission watching this year?
A more active and aggressive FTC, as well as scrutiny from other regulators, will keep dietary supplement and nutrition brands on their toes in 2022. Here’s what one lawyer says you should watch out for.
COVID claims crackdown: Lessons to learn from COVID-related NAD cases involving dietary supplements
Recent NAD cases demonstrate that brands must stay vigilant or risk regulatory action.
Bright future for beverages? Why functional drinks are likely to grow post-pandemic
Here’s what analysts say to expect of healthy drinks as consumers return to their normal schedules post-pandemic.
Plant protein’s new players
New entrants are raising the bar for creativity and even nutrition. But can they go commercial?
Collagen on the cutting edge: The next generation of collagen ingredients
Ingredient suppliers are making more advanced formulations possible.
Candyceuticals: The new nutritional delivery system?
Do “candyceuticals” let consumers have their cake and not feel guilty about eating it, too?
Strong Women: The best bone health nutrients give women the foundation to age healthily
Women are finding many approaches to support aging bones as supplement formulas grow increasingly sophisticated and diverse.
Joint health supplements: New ingredients are elbowing their way into the joint health market
Legacy ingredients are losing ground as emerging products gain validation.
Fertility supplements: Growing research and credibility
Fertility supplements are establishing much-needed credibility through research.
Black seed’s immune-health benefits get scientific validation
New studies demonstrate that black seed is a potent immune-health ingredient with multifaceted benefits.
Prebiotic research is expanding health applications and formulations
Cognition, immunity, and pet nutrition are just some of the exciting new categories where prebiotics can make a mark.
Pet nutrition products are healthier, more functional, and cleaner than ever
If you’re formulating for pets, healthier, sophisticated products from whole, fresh food sources and a more holistic approach to overall health is the name of the game.
Energy Plus: Shoppers demand more from today’s energy products
Multifunctional benefits, cleaner labels, and evidence of safety and efficacy are definitely on the list.
Influencer marketing for dietary supplements: What to know before you dive in
Dos and don’ts when working with influencers
Weight Expectations: The COVID-19 pandemic slowed weight-management supplement sales
Are innovative ingredients the key to recovery?
Packaging in a pandemic: Sustainable packaging still a priority during COVID-19
Packaging manufacturers continue to advance sustainable options.
Gummy supplements and manufacturing innovation
How contract manufacturers are keeping up with demand for new and improved gummy supplements.
The weight-management market’s post-pandemic future
Will the category recover as restrictions ease?
Blood sugar: A multifaceted market with diverse ingredients
Examining trends in blood sugar–management formulations
Sarcopenia Stoppers: Nutritional ingredients to combat age-related muscle loss
Research on ingredients to slow aged-related muscle loss
Sports probiotics are gaining ground
Clinical studies are revealing that probiotics could be sports nutrition’s next big thing.
2021 Social media tips for natural product marketers
E-commerce has seen explosive growth since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Here’s how social media skills will influence sales in 2021.
What could impact the sports drinks category in 2021?
Here’s what experts predict could shake up the sports drinks market in 2021.
Out-of-stocks: How natural product and supplement retailers are preparing for 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a purchasing frenzy last year that left many retailers with out-of-stocks. Here’s how manufacturers and retailers are adjusting.
Could eye health supplements gain a growing audience thanks to skyrocketing screen time?
A look at some of the eye-health ingredients, and the studies demonstrating their efficacy, that can continue to support customers long after the pandemic is behind us.
Glycemic Giants: The latest research on ingredients for blood sugar support
New research is demonstrating which blood sugar support ingredients are effective and the different ways in which they work.
Upcycling makes ingredient development more sustainable
Nutritional supplements and functional foods are becoming more sustainable thanks to better use of ingredient development byproducts.
Apple cider vinegar: The science and the trends
ACV’s natural and uncomplicated ingredient profile has consumers saying, “How do you like them apples?”