Last week, the FTC sent warning letters to eleven (11) companies over misleading marketing claims of omega-3 supplements for children.  These supplements claimed to "boost", "improve", "enhance", or "support" brain/vision function and development in children.  The reasoning for their warnings has not been revealed in their February 16th press release, but statements made by the FTC certainly give clues to their "current thinking" and preference on the issue. 

In response to the growing challenge of exercising oversight over clinical trial studies happening across multi-sites, the FDA has issued a draft guidance last month (January 2010) intended to assist IRBs in carrying out their continued review responsibility of these multi-site studies by proposing new recommendations of criteria, process and frequency of review. The guidance should also help clinical investigators and sponsors better understand their responsibilities in the continuing review process.  This guidance is opened for comments and suggestions through the beginning of March 2010.

 Brand Savvy: In tough economic times, branded products can stay competitive 

 Nutritional Outlook - January/February 2010 Issue

In light of the current recession, consumers may be looking for smarter, budget-friendly ways to pursue healthcare.  A 2009 online survey conducted by the Council of Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) revealed that the purchasing loyalty of some dietary supplement users has changed due to cost-cutting.  As with many other types of purchases, consumers may be switching to lower-cost dietary products.  While this may sound alarming to companies selling brand-name dietary products, these marketers should also realize that there is opportunity to win customer loyalty.  Companies looking to win loyalty and gain competitive edge must be able to meet evolving needs by continuously presenting evidence that substantiates product value. 

February is Heart Health Month!

This month we will look at the evidence on the cardiovascular benefits of chocolate and Omega-3 fatty acids.

Chocolate is a well-known treat beloved by a significant number of people.  In addition to good taste, chocolate also provides a number of substances that may be beneficial to good health.  These ingredients include antioxidants, flavonoids, and polyphenols.  There is some interesting evidence in the literature that indicates chocolate may be beneficial to cardiovascular health and inflammation.  In the spirit of heart health month, we will take a brief look at this interesting plant-based derivative.

 The Cardiovascular Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids 

Evidence in the biomedical literature supports a role for omega-3 fatty acids in cardiovascular health.  Based on the strength of this evidence, the American Heart Association recommends that healthy people eat two servings of fatty fish per week in order to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.