Market Updates Archives

Is it time to tap into the apple cider vinegar trend?

April 25, 2018

Apple cider vinegar has been used medically for centuries. But in recent years, it has enjoyed a surge in popularity due to its natural remedies for various health problems.

Health practitioners claim that the ingredient aids digestion, helps to control blood sugar level spikes, and by creating a feeling of satedness, can be beneficial for those looking for a weight loss aid. For example, according to one study, taking vinegar along with a high carb meal led to increased feelings of fullness, causing participants to eat 200–275 fewer calories throughout the rest of the day (1).

Vinegars contain known beneficial bioactive compounds, these are of many types, such as carotenoids, phytosterols, phenolic compounds, and vitamins C and E. Apple cider vinegar (ACV), specifically, also contains organic acids (acetic acid, citric acid, formic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, and succinic acids) and phenolic compounds (gallic acid, catechin, epicatechin, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and p-coumaric acid). The main component of ACV is acetic acid, and the dominant polyphenol compound is chlorogenic acid. All these above compounds are thought to instil ACV with health benefits even when ingested in a small amount.

In 2013, the American producer Bragg began importing its Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar to the UK, selling around 95,000 bottles in that one year. By 2018, they were selling 1.57 million bottles of Apple Cider Vinegar (2).

So, why is Apple Cider Vinegar now one of the most hyped products on the health food and supplement market today? More people are looking for a multitasking natural product that’s in tune with nature and doesn’t harm the environment. ACV is an all rounder ingredient, which can be used for cleaning, as a health supplement and for hair. Liquids have been traditionally the most popular form of Apple Cider Vinegar, however gummies have grown in popularity over recent years, driven by consumers wanting a tasty, convenient format (2).

HTC’s Apple Cider Vinegar Gummy

HTC have developed the most premium Apple Cider Vinegar Gummy on the market, containing 500mg of ACV. Our max strength Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies are also free from allergens including lactose, gluten and any GMO ingredients. Ideal for those who want to reap the benefits of this therapeutic ingredient, without the unpleasant taste!

In collaboration with our manufacturing partners, we have pioneered a revolutionary and innovative formula with added Vitamin C and Chromium, which betters the Goli formula. Unlike other ACV gummy choices, HTC’s gummies stand apart due to our unique ingredient combination and delicious taste and texture.

The demand for ACV continues to surge as a mounting number of studies have provided scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of the ingredient.

For more information on our ACV gummy or any of our other products, contact us on 01923 652 529 or email us at sales@htc.co.uk.

(1) https://www.nature.com/articles/1602197

(2). Natural Products – July/ August 2020

*Claims for food supplements mentioned in this article are not meant for general public, but are purely for information of food supplement industry professionals. Please note that the claims are not authorised by European Food Safety Authority for use on labels or marketing materials.

What’s next for immunity?

April 25, 2018

Immune health trends

The coronavirus crisis has caused people to re-evaluate their diets and the way they think about health. Along with practising social distancing and taking other measures to lessen their risk of exposure to COVID-19, consumers across the globe are changing their lifestyle and diet habits.

By adopting healthy habits, consumers aim to improve their immune system against COVID-19, or any other pathogen that could cross their path, both now, and later down the line.

To complement these actions, more consumers are purchasing health supplements. A look at the top selling health supplements on Amazon is very telling, with several of the top 20 bestsellers in early May carrying immunity claims including Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Apple Cider Vinegar.

These purchasing patterns show clearly that the global crisis has pushed health to the forefront of consumers minds. Rather than waiting until they experience symptoms of illness, consumers are taking action to prevent getting unwell and incorporating supplements into their daily regimens. Immune health sales have always been steady according to NBJ (1), and sales spikes are common around flu and winter seasons, but now that coronavirus has compelled even more people to do what they can to stay healthy, NBJ predicts that immune health supplement sales will spike above 15% in 2020 (1).

What’s next for the immunity category?

While tried and tested immune health solutions such as Vitamin C and Zinc will continue to sell well this year, according to NBJ, now is a prime time to introduce new innovative options and formats. Elderberry has shown enormous growth in recent months, solidifying its place as a major ingredient in the immune health category. Elderberry is capturing significant mainstream attention, rising in sales by an impressive 116% to nearly $63 million (2).

Elderberries have long been used in syrups and elixirs to fight off colds and flu due to its high content of anthocyanidins, which have potential immunostimulant effects. They are rich in flavonoids which are natural compounds with antioxidant qualities that may protect cells against damage and infections.

Elderberry also contains vitamin A, B, significant amounts of vitamin C and amino-acids.

HTC’s Elderberry Gummy

This powerful ingredient has been combined with Zinc, Vitamin C and B12 in our new tasty gummy to further enhance its benefits. Our Elderberry gummy is our most sophisticated, all natural formula yet, rich in botanicals and vitamins that support a healthy immune system. Just like all of our nutritional gummies, it contains all natural ingredients, sweeteners and colourings – sourced from fruit and vegetables.

PRODUCT CLAIMS:

Vitamin B12: contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Vitamin C: contributes to normal functioning of the nervous system, to the normal function of the immune system and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Zinc: contributes to normal cognitive function, contributes to normal cognitive function, to the normal function of the immune system and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

For more information on our Elderberry gummy, contact us now on +44 (0) 1923 652 529 or email us at sales@htc.co.uk.

(1) https://store.newhope.com/products/2020-condition-specific-report

(2) Krawiec S. “2019 ingredient trends to watch for food, drinks, and dietary supplements: Elderberry.” Nutritional Outlook, vol. 22, no. 1 (2019): 19-20. Accessed at: www.nutritionaloutlook.com/immune-support/2019-ingredient-trends-watch-food-drinks-and-dietary-supplements-elderberry

Omega 3 and Turmeric top trendy ingredients list

April 25, 2018

Innovation insight agency Buzzback, based in New York, recently interviewed consumers in the UK and the US to see which ingredients they are most interested in.

For the survey, Buzzback interviewed 800 people online during March. Over 50% of those interviewed say that they are open to trying products with new elements.

Buzzback identified the trendiest ingredients based on how many consumers would be “extremely open” to using products that include certain ingredients. The results between countries varied slightly, with omega-3s and curcumin/turmeric in the top five in both the UK and the USA.

While only 1/3 of respondents reported having a complete understanding of these ingredients, they were still interested in trying them. They particularly wanted to find out more about specific benefits for issues they experience.

Driving awareness: social media and NPD

So, what exactly makes these ingredients trendy? Research from Buzzback found that social media is consumers’ main source of information about trendy ingredients, with 46% of consumers using it to read and understand more about supplements.

Native to Southern-Asia, Turmeric has been trending for some time. It is arguably one of the most powerful herbs on the planet it has many healing properties that include fighting disease.

Turmeric is grown in the tropics and the root is used in cooking. Numerous studies have proven the benefits of turmeric and one of its renowned healing compounds, curcumin. A number of studies have reported that using curcumin is more advantageous than certain prescription drugs (1). Although curcumin has been linked to joint health, it is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties (2) and is efficient as a digestive solution, as well as a solution for immunity and anti-aging (3).

Omega 3, the other trending ingredient, is expected to continue to drive the health supplements market, however, the market is trending towards high concentrate products, as consumers want to get more EPA/DHA, but in fewer soft gels. Through the media, doctors, and health care practitioners, consumers understand the benefits of higher potencies to support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response, which benefits heart health, brain health, mood, and many other conditions (4).

Buy bulk health supplements from renowned supplier

Turmeric

At HTC, we supply 600mg Turmeric capsules, which contain 5mg of Black Pepper extract with min 95% Piperine from Piper Nigrum Fruits. Additionally, our Turmeric supplements come in HPMC capsules, which means the supplement is suitable for vegans. Click here for more information.

Omega 3 Fish Oil

Our standard range of Omega 3 Fish Oil is 18/12, which means that each capsule contains 180mg EPA and 120mg DHA and it comes in either TG (triglyceride) or EE (ethyl ester) form, which indicates an extraction method used to purify fish oil. However, we also offer Super Strength Omega 3 capsules with a higher concentration of up to 500mg EPA and 250mg DHA. Click here for more information.

(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19594223/

(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10404539/

(3) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20205886/

(4) Zanwar, Sharad P. Adekar, Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Keys to Nutritional Health (2016)

Glucosamine Complex- What is it?

April 25, 2018

More people than ever are suffering from painful joints and bone conditions. Official figures from the NHS report that In the UK, more than 10 million people have arthritis or similar conditions that affect the joints. According to the study published by the WHO, approximately 22 million individuals in Europe and 14 million in the United States are likely to suffer from osteoporosis, by 2020.

Of all the supplements available to consumers to aid one part of our body or another, the most popular by a long way are those that can help our joints – and most of those contain glucosamine.

What is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a vital part of our bodies – it’s one of the building blocks of cartilage, ligaments, and tendons – all possible causes of pain in joints. Glucosamine is the starting point for the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, which are the core of tissues like collagen. Glucosamine supports joint health by acting as a building block for connective tissue, cushioning joints, and maintaining the normal thickness of the fluids that sit between the joints. Fortunately, glucosamine is naturally produced within the body, however, as we age, our body’s ability to produce it declines. After an injury to joints or cartilage, the body may not be able to optimally heal.

Glucosamine can also be harvested from the hard-outer shells of crustaceous animals such as shellfish.

What is MSM?

HTC Health’s Glucosamine Complex also contains Methylsulfonylmethane, commonly known as MSM. This is a sulfur compound that’s stored in every one of the body’s cells. It can promote the growth of hair, skin, and nails and supports joint health by promoting the body’s ability to synthesize collagen for connective tissue health and cell membrane flexibility. Research has also been carried out into MSM and its role in post-exercise recovery. A study carried out in 2013 of 16 men revealed that taking MSM could reduce the signs of oxidative stress on their bodies after exercise. 1

Why add Vitamin C to the complex?

There are multiple health benefits of Vitamin C- it is most commonly thought of as an immune system booster and an antioxidant. However, it is also crucial for the formation of collagen and thus plays an important role in keeping ligaments and tendons healthy.

What else does Glucosamine Complex contain?

It contains Manganese, which is a type of metal that is found in many different minerals. We do not often encounter the term Manganese when it comes to diet, but it is just as crucial to our health as iron and potassium. In people who have arthritis, it is even more important. Manganese contributes to the normal formation of connective tissue, to the maintenance of normal bones and protection of cells from oxidative stress. Manganese is critical to muscle and nerve health. When the body lacks this mineral, you can suffer from joint pain and sore muscles. The anecdotal benefits of ginger and white willow that are also in this supplement help in reducing inflammation and pain.

1. Nakhostin-Roohi,et al. Effect of Single Dose Administration of Methylsulfonylmethane on Oxidative Stress Following Acute Exhaustive Exercise

For this month only, we are offering our Glucosamine Complex at a discounted price of £7.50/1000. MOQ is 15,000.

For more information on any of our lines or for a free instant quote, please contact our sales team now on 01923 652529 or email sales@htc.co.uk.

Supplement Sales Surge During Lockdown

April 25, 2018

In early March, sales of vitamins, supplements, and minerals climbed 19.5% to £48.5m [Kantar 4 w/e 22 March 2020].

This was largely driven by consumers looking for a way to boost their immunity, as evidenced by the 110% rice in Vitamin C sales. Globally, vitamin C is one of the most well-known nutrients for its role in immune support, and many companies have reported increased demand. Similarly, with vitamin D, in the month running up to lockdown, sales of the immune-boosting vitamin grew 29.8%. This is likely due to people being indoors most of the day, and the government advising the public to take Vitamin D during the lockdown. There was also an increase in sales for multivitamins, the 50 plus, pregnancy and children and adult multivitamin categories.

Growth in more mainstream sectors such as children’s and adults’ multivitamins was driven by new shoppers entering the category with less knowledge on what to buy to protect their immune system. According to the latest research by Kantar, more and more consumers are purchasing their supplements online. A real surge can be seen in the older shopper going online and this demographic is the one that overtrades in vitamins. The early evidence suggests the shift to online buying is accelerating as consumers are buying more products for their health.

As the pandemic makes Brits even more concerned about their health, the immunity supplements category is expected to reach a record year.

For more information on any of our lines or for a free instant quote, please contact our sales team now on 01923 652529 or email sales@htc.co.uk.

A Record Year for Immunity Supplements

April 25, 2018

As consumers try and protect themselves against Coronavirus, US Nutrition Business Journal (NBJ) predicts that sales of immunity supplements could reach a record year. The category is expected to spike above 25% in 2020- up from 8.5% growth to $3.3 billion in total.

It’s not just the US who are reporting strong sales of immunity supplements, UK and Europe have seen a surge in sales, with immunity products consistently occupying the top places in Amazon’s Health and Household and Vitamins & Dietary Supplements product rankings.

So, which vitamins are experiencing significant growth?

Vitamin D

Although Vitamin D is associated with the healthy development of bones, muscles, and joints, recent research reveals just how much it can help the immune system. Vitamin D is primarily made from a reaction of the sun when it touches our skin. During the winter months, or when much of our time is spent indoors, this can be difficult to achieve. Changes in government guidelines have boosted sales and we expect this to continue for many months.

Zinc

Zinc is known to be an important micronutrient for the immune system, and a deficiency in this can result in an impaired immune response. For many years, laboratory research has shown that Zinc can stop cold viruses from multiplying, and recently, scientists have found that taking Zinc can shorten the duration of a cold. An estimated 17.3% of the world’s population is at risk of inadequate zinc intake and in South Asia, it is up to 30% (1).

B Vitamins

Several members of the B Vitamin complex, namely Vitamin B6, B12, and B9 have been implicated in the immune response. It’s only found in animal products like eggs, meat, shellfish, and dairy. Up to 15% of people don’t get enough B12, and they’re more likely to be vegetarians, have celiac disease or other digestive issues, or be an adult over 50. The B vitamins have bee found to play an important role in the immune system, and a deficiency in them can alter the response of the immune system.

Vitamin C

Perhaps the most popular supplement taken to ward of colds and flu, Vitamin C plays a major role in immune health. The vitamin supports the function of various immune cells and enhances their ability to protect against infection.

Vitamin C also functions as a powerful antioxidant, protecting against damage induced by oxidative stress, which occurs with the accumulation of reactive molecules known as free radicals. Oxidative stress can negatively affect immune health and is linked to numerous diseases.

Omega 3’s

Omega 3 fatty acids may help to boost the immune system by enhancing the functioning of the immune cells (3). There are three forms of omega fatty acids- EPA, AHA, and ALA. ALA is called an essential fatty acid as it cannot be made by the body so it must be consumed through the diet or supplements.

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, consumer concerns about immunity are heightened at this time. A healthy and well-balanced immune system can not only reduce the risk of getting viral and bacterial infections but also promotes life long wellness.

Wessells KR, Brown KH. Estimating the Global Prevalence of Zinc Deficiency: Results Based on Zinc Availability in National Food Supplies and the Prevalence of Stunting. PLOS ONE. 2012 Nov 29;7(11):e50568.
https://www.health.com/nutrition/21-important-facts-about-vitamin-b12-deficiency
https://www.nutraingredients.com/Article/2013/04/02/Omega-3-backed-to-boost-immune-health-not-just-battle-inflammation

For more information on any of our lines or for a free instant quote, please contact our sales team now on 01923 652529 or email sales@htc.co.uk.

Market Updates