Additionally, we examined research on the fungus and the microbiome and how our bodies adapt to micronutrient surpluses and deficiencies. In innovation highlights, Spirited Paw unveiled its latest pet supplement.<\/p>\n
Humane World for Animals: Loopholes keep animal testing in nutrition out of sight<\/strong><\/a> Fungal jungle: Scientists discover first genetic, mycobiome & chronic disease risk links<\/strong><\/a> Spirited Paw\u2019s pet supplement launch protects skin from irritants and seasonal changes<\/strong><\/a> Vitafoods Asia 2025 live: Beneo exhibits Orafti Inulin chicory root fiber for Asian snacking<\/strong><\/a> Vitafoods Asia 2025: Spotlight on APAC\u2019s functional ingredients, innovative formats and targeted nutrition<\/strong><\/a> Rousselot Innovation Days: Spotlight on collagen peptides research advances<\/strong><\/a> Soil to genes: How human genetics adapt to micronutrient deficiencies and excess<\/strong><\/a> Bayer Consumer Health targets Latin America\u2019s digestive health market with probiotic launches<\/strong><\/a>
Humane World for Animals told us that US consumers were largely unaware of animals\u2019 use in food and supplement development, due to loopholes in the AWA. The Act excludes rats, mice, and birds \u2014 species heavily used in nutrition studies \u2014 leaving them unprotected and largely unreported. Greg Sower, toxicologist and adviser at Humane World for Animals, criticized the lack of oversight, transparency, and enforcement, noting that animal experiments often caused pain, were difficult to replicate, and limited the adoption of non-animal methods. He also highlighted that FDA and NIH guidance existed, but without AWA coverage, researchers had little incentive to use cruelty-free alternatives.<\/p>\n![\"arrow\"](\"https:\/\/resource.innovamarketinsights360.com\/fif\/banners\/47446b9c-4cf3-476c-baa8-4e498291b7cb.webp\")
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Researchers from Pennsylvania State University, US, found evidence of a previously unknown three-way relationship between human genetics, the gut mycobiome, and chronic disease risk. Their genome-wide association study identified 148 fungi-associated genetic variants across seven chromosomes linked to nine fungal taxa. The findings suggested that gut fungi are influenced not only by diet, as previously believed, but also by human genes. We sat down with the study\u2019s author, who revealed that the gut mycobiome may play a key role in driving intestinal and other chronic diseases. The results emphasized that limited physician knowledge about fungal contributions may hinder effective disease prevention and treatment strategies.<\/p>\n
US-based pet food brand Spirited Paw, owned by Standard Process, launched Skin + Allergy, a seasonal supplement designed to support cats\u2019 and dogs\u2019 skin health during allergy season. The formula was created to soothe skin from within and promote a normal histamine response using bioavailable ingredients. It contains bovine colostrum, licorice root, zinc, biotin, and vitamin E, which together support immune balance, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy, shiny coat. The company described the product as a comprehensive solution to strengthen pets\u2019 skin, immune, and inflammatory responses through a whole-foods-based approach.<\/p>\n
At Vitafoods Asia 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, Beneo showcased the versatility of its Orafti Inulin chicory root fiber in regional snack applications, including flavored prebiotic water, brookies, and tea gummies. Derived from chicory root through gentle hot water extraction, Orafti Inulin was recognized by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics as one of the few scientifically validated prebiotics. Research showed it supported Bifidobacteria growth regardless of food format. Beneo\u2019s CEO, Olivier Roques, told us that Thailand\u2019s Center for Nutrition Assessment and Health Claims formally approved prebiotic claims for Orafti Inulin, following collaboration with the Beneo Institute, highlighting its alignment with regional flavor and wellness trends.<\/p>\n
Also, we looked at some of the major trends and innovations in the show, including nutraceutical and functional food brands across the APAC region, which intensified their focus on targeted wellness categories amid rising demand for proactive health solutions. Key trends shaping innovation included women\u2019s health, healthy aging, beauty-from-within, immune support, sports nutrition, digestive health, and weight management. These reflected shifting demographics, urban lifestyles, and growing interest in preventive care and holistic well-being. On the tradeshow floor, we interviewed experts from Gelita, New-In, and Sirio Pharma to explore the consumer-driven forces behind nutraceutical and supplement ingredient innovation in one of the world\u2019s fastest-evolving health markets.<\/p>\n
Rousselot showcased its latest collagen research and formulation innovations at its Innovation Days in Gent, Belgium, emphasizing science-driven approaches to unlock targeted health benefits. We attended the event where the company\u2019s experts presented findings on Nextida collagen peptides, revealing their effects on blood glucose, insulin, and GLP-1 hormones. They explained how collagen composition shapes its health outcomes. Executive vice president Jeroen Colpaert stated that Rousselot aimed to help people lead healthier lives through science-backed nutrition and pharmaceutical solutions. He described Nextida as the \u201cnext wave of collagen,\u201d signaling the industry\u2019s shift from \u201ccollagen good for all\u201d to \u201ccollagen good for you.\u201d<\/p>\n
We looked at a recent study that hypothesized that micronutrients have subtly influenced human evolution, showing positive selection in micronutrient-related gene sets across various populations. Published in The American Journal of Human Genetics, the research highlighted how climate change, rising CO2 levels, and over-farming have altered global soil micronutrient levels, while migration has exposed populations to deficiencies or excesses without matching genetic adaptations. We spoke with the study\u2019s lead author, Jasmin Rees, Ph.D., from University College London and the University of Pennsylvania, who emphasized the need for broader studies, including underrepresented genetic groups, to better understand the health impacts of evolving micronutrient dynamics on modern populations.<\/p>\n
Bayer Consumer Health identified significant untapped potential in Latin America\u2019s gut health market, driven by widespread digestive issues and rising consumer demand. The company expanded its regional portfolio by launching Iberoflora Kids and Iberoflora Adults probiotics in Mexico. Bayer executives M\u00f3nica Matienzo and Astrid Carolina D\u00edaz spoke with us about the region\u2019s urgent need for accessible digestive health solutions. Matienzo noted that Latin America, particularly Mexico, surpasses global averages in digestive health concerns, with the category being the most important in self-care products. In Mexico, products for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), probiotics, and heartburn dominated the market, with IBS showing the fastest growth.<\/p>\n