Page 21 - Food & Drink Magazine Sep-Oct 2020

sensitivity and fasting blood glucose in two different mouse models of type 2 diabetes by modulating the metabolic activity of skeletal muscle.
TRACEABILITY FROM SEEDS TO FINAL EXTRACTS Herbal preparations can, however, vary considerably in their effects, purity, quality and safety, particularly if the “seed to patient” process is not properly controlled and standardised.
The path from the seed (or the plant) to the finished product
includes many variables and challenges, particularly the environmental factors associated with growth, collection, harvest time, storage conditions and processing of the raw material.
Some phytochemicals may be seasonally dependent and influenced by where the plants are grown. Another important factor is the method of extraction. This can influence how much of a particular active constituent is present in the herbal product.
Some phytochemicals are more soluble in water, whereas
others are soluble in alcohol or oil. Manufacturers can overcome
many of these challenges by employing standardised, traceable processes from the plant to the finished product, and also by using precise instruments to scientifically verify the extent to which herbs and phytochemicals can support human health.
TESTING IS KEY
The variability in the raw material requires experienced sourcing and thorough testing. Species identification is also critical.
In addition, as demand for botanical ingredients increases year-on-year, as do the risks of overharvesting.
High demand may also persuade dishonest ingredient suppliers to use cheap botanical materials as substitutes for expensive or difficult-to-
grow species. Counterfeit products present a significant challenge to the industry and
a risk to consumer health. For this reason, suppliers
should have an integrated supply chain in place, in which each step is traceable, accountable and transparent.
At Euromed, each production batch, from the herb to the final extract, undergoes several laboratory tests for identity, potency and quality, a process certified by PhytoProof, Euromed’s quality seal.
PhytoProof extracts are designed to be highly bioavailable, providing tangible and reproducible results in clinical testing. ✷
✷ ABOUTTHEAUTHOR
INGREDIENTS
Andrea Zangara has 20+ years of international experience in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical R&D, across academia and the industry.
He has worked at Euromed since 2017, which is headquartered in Spain.
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