The 2009Frost &SullivanGlobal Weight Management Ingredients New Product Innovation Award is presented to Kemin Health.
Kemin Health's Slendesta is the only appetite suppressant in the weight management ingredients market to be sourced from potato, a clean-label dietary staple. The protein-based Slendesta is distinct from fibre-based equivalents;fibres have a bulking effect which cause a completely full sensation in the stomach, whereas Slendesta promotes the release of the hormone cholecystokinin (CCK), which is a characteristic of normal dietary consumption and digestive processes, and thus helps consumers feel fuller for longer.
"One of the most challenging aspects for weight management ingredients in 2009 is the availability of clinical trials to support ingredient efficacy,"statesFrost &SullivanIndustry Analyst Deborah Cross. "However, Kemin Health already has a total of 11 trials in humans supporting the efficacy of Slendesta's active ingredient. The company is now focusing on the development of further clinical trials, to promote the product to health professionals and increase its value generation potential."
Generally, active doses of satiety ingredients may vary in the market from 300mg in the case of Slendesta, up to 3, 5, or even 15-20 g. The low dose of Slendesta allows the entire dosage to be delivered in one capsule only.
"This is of great advantage in making its consumption easier for consumers, and for B2B manufacturers, as it allows greater space in supplement products for other functional ingredients,"notes Ms Cross. "The requirement of only one capsule also encourages consumer uptake by limiting confusion in terms of what is required for an effective dose."
Slendesta is ideally suited to meet the needs of all food, beverage and supplement providers, with the current exception of the clear beverages segment. With 3 product delivery forms available, Kemin Health is continually developing the production, extraction and purification methodology, which would increase both the quality and efficiency of ingredient manufacturing globally for Slendesta.
With further product development, the water dispersible form of Slendesta was introduced into the market in May 2008. Since then, milkshake products have already been launched in Chile, Brazil, Asia and the United States, and one shake has already been launched in Europe.
"In addition, Slendesta has attracted considerable interest from food and beverage producers, since it was affirmed as GRAS in the United States in the first quarter of 2009,"remarks Ms Cross. "Several food and beverage producers are currently doing trials and developing products within the areas of yoghurts, small bars and chocolates, with many products expected for worldwide introduction by the end of the year."
Currently, 17 products have been launched containing Slendesta within Europe, and this region is growing in size to a considerably greater extent than the United States. The active promotion of the ingredient by health professionals is considered to be the main reason for this difference, in informing end-users that Slendesta should be consumed in association with a diet programme, and is not a quick-fix tool.
TheFrost &SullivanAward for Product Innovation is presented each year to the company that has demonstrated excellence in new products and technologies within its industry. The recipient company has shown innovation by launching a broad line of emerging products and technologies.
Frost &SullivanBest Practices Awards recognise companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research in order to identify best practices in the industry.
