Key Takeaways
- Danone Acquires Huel: The dairy giant expands its functional nutrition portfolio by acquiring the UK-based plant-based meal solutions brand.
- Myprotein x Mars Wrigley: A new MARS Impact Whey Protein launches, blending high-performance nutrition with iconic confectionery flavors.
- NAD+ Breakthrough: Blue Helix Health presents clinical trial results showing its BluNADBooster outperforms standard nicotinamide riboside (NR) in raising NAD+ levels.
- Protein Pasta Goes Mainstream: Heritage Italian brand Rummo launches a "protein-forward" pasta range, reflecting the growing demand for functional staples.
- China's Health Food Market: Alibaba Tmall data reveals vitamins, cardiovascular health, and kids' nutrition as the top nutraceutical categories in China.
Top Stories
Danone Expands Functional Nutrition Portfolio with Huel Acquisition
In a significant move for the functional nutrition sector, Danone has entered into an agreement to acquire the UK-based plant-based meal solutions brand Huel. The acquisition, announced today, aligns with the "Renew Danone" strategy aimed at driving sustainable growth. Huel, known for its direct-to-consumer model and complete nutrition products, will continue to operate under its existing leadership team, including CEO James McMaster. This acquisition follows Danone's purchase of the clinical nutrition brand Kate Farms last year, signaling a strong commitment to the rapidly growing $15 billion meal replacement and functional food market. [1]
Myprotein and Mars Wrigley Deepen Partnership with New Whey Protein Launch
Sports nutrition brand Myprotein has extended its collaboration with Mars Wrigley to launch the new MARS Impact Whey Protein. The product combines Myprotein's popular whey formula with the iconic chocolate, caramel, and malt flavor profile of a MARS bar, delivering 20 grams of protein per serving. Neil Mistry, CEO of THG Nutrition, noted that the launch reflects a consumer shift where performance and enjoyment are no longer mutually exclusive. The product is slated for a broader rollout in major grocery stores later in 2026. [2]
Blue Helix Health Presents Breakthrough NAD+ Clinical Trial Results
Norwegian biotech firm Blue Helix Health is presenting compelling new research at the "NAD for Health" conference in Copenhagen. A recent randomized, double-blind clinical trial involving 140 healthy aging adults demonstrated that the company's flagship ingredient, BluNADBooster, raised NAD+ levels by 26.48%, outperforming nicotinamide riboside (NR). Furthermore, the ingredient reduced CD38 activity by nearly 18%, addressing a primary biological driver of age-related NAD+ decline. The study also reported functional improvements in mitochondrial efficiency, cognitive performance, and physical endurance. [3]
Business and Investment
Functional Brands Partners with iHerb for Global Distribution
Functional Brands Inc. has formed a strategic alliance with the global e-commerce platform iHerb to expand access to its P2i™ Prenatal Multivitamin & Multimineral, developed by the Kirkman® brand. This partnership leverages iHerb's extensive distribution network to meet the rising demand for rigorously tested prenatal supplements. The P2i™ product is notable for its comprehensive testing protocol, which screens for over 160 potential contaminants. [4]
Mitsubishi Shokuhin Enters U.S. Market via Yami Partnership
Japan's largest food wholesaler, Mitsubishi Shokuhin, has partnered with the U.S.-based e-commerce platform Yami to sell its portfolio of Japanese food and beverage brands directly to American consumers. The collaboration, sparked by an MBA internship, allows Mitsubishi to bypass traditional retail channels and access Yami's nearly four million registered customers, highlighting the growing importance of specialized e-commerce platforms in international distribution. [5]
Science and Research
Avocado Byproducts Show Promise in Reducing Oxi-Inflammation
A new systematic review published in Nutrition Reviews has analyzed 14 randomized clinical trials investigating the effects of avocado and its byproducts on molecular pathways related to oxi-inflammation. The research indicates that avocado consumption, including fresh pulp, freeze-dried pulp flour, and extracted fatty acids, can exert significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, offering potential new avenues for functional food formulations. [6]
Spirulina Fortification Enhances Nutritional Profile of Wafer Creams
A study in Algal Research explored the fortification of wafer cream fillings with Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina). The optimized formulation demonstrated substantial improvements in protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), DHA, and mineral content. Despite the introduction of a green color and mild vegetal aroma, the Spirulina-enriched cream achieved high consumer acceptance, suggesting viable applications for microalgae in mainstream indulgent snacks. [7]
New Product Launches and Formulation
PureHealth Research Wins NEXTY Award for Lymph System Support
PureHealth Research has been awarded the 2026 Supplement Trailblazer NEXTY Award at the Natural Products Expo West for its "Lymph System Support" supplement. Selected from nearly 1,000 nominations, the vegan and non-GMO formula features eight plant-based ingredients, including Cleavers extract and Bromelain, designed to support lymphatic function and detoxification. [8]
FrieslandCampina Ingredients Showcases Protein-Forward Concepts
At Natural Products Expo West, FrieslandCampina Ingredients presented a range of high-protein, taste-led concepts targeting the gut-muscle axis and GLP-1 medication users. The showcase included a Dubai chocolate-inspired protein bar and a key lime pie protein bar utilizing Nutri Whey™ proteins and Excellion® caseinates. The company also highlighted its Biotis® Fermentis ingredient, a co-fermented blend of whey protein, prebiotics, and probiotics aimed at supporting digestive health and muscle maintenance. For those looking to support their own digestive health, incorporating a high-quality Multispore Probiotic can be a beneficial addition to a daily routine. [9]
Heritage Pasta Brands Embrace Functional Reformulation
The functional foods trend is moving into mainstream staples, as evidenced by Italian pasta maker Rummo launching its new Maxima range. Positioned as a "protein-forward pasta," the product is made with durum wheat semolina and yellow peas, delivering 21 grams of protein per serving. This launch reflects a broader industry strategy of enhancing traditional foods with added nutrition to meet changing consumer expectations, particularly the demand for satiety driven by GLP-1 use. [10]
Regulations and Quality
DEA Clarifies Power of Attorney Requirements for Controlled Substances
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has issued a final rule and technical amendment clarifying the requirements for executing a Power of Attorney to order Schedule I and II controlled substances. The amendment specifies that only the registrant, a partner, or a corporate officer can grant or revoke this authority, removing previous ambiguities and streamlining compliance for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturers handling these materials. [11]
China NHC Accepts Applications for New Food Raw Materials
China's National Health Commission (NHC) has officially received applications for two new food raw materials: N-Acetylglucosamine and Yerba mate leaves. This acceptance marks the first step in the regulatory approval process under China's 'three new foods' notification system, potentially opening new formulation opportunities for supplement brands operating in the Chinese market. [12]
Marketing and Consumer Trends
Alibaba Tmall Reveals Top Health Food Categories in China
Data from Alibaba Health Tmall indicates that vitamin and mineral supplements, cardiovascular health products, and kids' nutrition are the top three nutraceutical categories in China by sales revenue. The growth is driven by new users entering the market and millennial parents investing in their children's health. Emerging categories with high growth potential include Food with Special Medical Purposes (FSMP), bone and joint supplements, and sleep support products. For those seeking to improve their sleep quality naturally, a targeted supplement like CALM can provide effective support. [13]
Sustainable Sourcing Initiatives Gain Traction in Herbal Market
As the global herbal market expands, it faces significant challenges from overharvesting and climate change. To ensure long-term sustainability, many operations are increasingly supplementing wild-harvested materials with cultivated stock. Collaborative efforts, such as the Sustainable Herbs Initiative (SHI), are developing industry-wide best practices for wild harvesting, traceability, and emissions tracking, reflecting a growing consumer demand for ethically sourced ingredients. When choosing herbal supplements, such as Organic KSM-66 Ashwagandha, consumers are increasingly looking for brands that prioritize sustainable and transparent sourcing. [14]
About the Author
Ben Law is the Founder of Love Life Supplements. With a passion for health, fitness, and clean nutrition, Ben established LLS to provide high-quality, effective supplements free from unnecessary additives. Learn more about his journey and the LLS mission here.