Olivia Haslam

The Yakult symposium in Amsterdam highlighted the complexities of gut microbiome clinical trials, focusing on individual variability, strain-specific effects, and stringent regulatory hurdles. Experts emphasized the need for rigorous research, effective communication with consumers, and alternative approaches to assess health benefits, driving innovation in microbiome studies amidst academic and regulatory challenges.

Migalis ApS, a NutraIngredients Probiota Pioneer, has developed a supplement combining HMOs and pomegranate extract to enhance mitochondrial health and gut function in endurance athletes. This formula boosts urolithin A production, addressing common microbiome limitations to improve energy levels, muscle recovery and athletic performance.

A new study highlights the benefits of omega-3 and whey protein supplementation in reducing muscle soreness, inflammation and fatigue while enhancing recovery and performance in female futsal players. The research demonstrates that combining omega-3 fatty acids and whey protein improves muscle strength, power and recovery, offering actionable strategies for optimizing recovery in high-intensity sports.

In 2024, social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube drove key nutrition trends by amplifying conversations around cognitive performance, stress management and accessible wellness solutions. Trends were shaped by influencers and brands using short-form, engaging content to promote science-backed products like nootropics, adaptogens and green powders, while also addressing misinformation and fostering deeper health discussions.

Perseus Biomics is looking to transform microbiome analysis with its patented optical DNA mapping technology by offering strain-level classification without DNA sequencing. The company, recognized by NutraIngredients and selected as a Probiota Pioneer, aims to offer fast, affordable and scalable solutions, redefining the field of microbiome profiling.

Experts at the two-day event hosted by probiotic encapsulation company AnaBio unveiled breakthroughs in probiotic research, highlighting their potential to enhance brain health, address obesity, and redefine consumer health through cutting-edge encapsulation technologies and regulatory advancements.

The esteemed judging panel for the NutraIngredients Awards featuring experts from diverse fields such as food innovation, regulatory affairs, and nutritional science. These leaders bring unparalleled expertise to evaluate and celebrate groundbreaking products, companies, and initiatives shaping the future of health, nutrition, and wellness.

Researchers from Spain investigated how maternal serum omega-6 to omega-3 ratios in early and late pregnancy affect infant neurodevelopment, revealing that a higher ratio in the third trimester correlates with poorer motor skills in newborns. Their findings, published in the journal Nutrients, emphasize the importance of late-gestational fatty acid balance in shaping early brain development.

The supplement industry faces increased regulatory scrutiny, legal challenges and ingredient safety debates in 2025, with botanical claims, probiotics and novel food regulations under heightened examination. Companies are pushing back against rulings, while EU and UK courts influence key decisions on food supplements, nutrition labeling and sustainability regulations, shaping the industry's legal landscape.

The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has ruled against supplement brands Vivostore and Ovira for misleading claims on TikTok and Meta about B12 benefits and weight loss, breaching advertising regulations. The ASA's decisions highlight the importance of compliance with UK health claim laws, reinforcing stricter scrutiny on influencer marketing and unauthorized supplement claims.