Vitamins, Diet and Sports Nutrition

CHEVY CHASE, Md. — Vitamin D levels in women during pregnancy could impact birth weight, according to research released Tuesday by the Endocrine Society.

SOLNA, Sweden — Meda announced Friday that it has signed an agreement to acquire MidNite, an OTC sleep-aid product. MidNite is well established in the U.S. and holds a market leading position within a growing category. Transaction terms were not disclosed.

“This acquisition enhances our presence in the U.S. ahead of other future OTC launches," stated Anders Lönner, CEO of Meda. 

Annualized revenues for MidNite are approximately $15 million, the company reported. 

BOSTON — Being mildly vitamin B-12 deficient could be an indication that some older adults are at a greater risk for accelerated cognitive decline, according to an observational study from researchers at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University released Wednesday.

WASHINGTON — The Natural Products Association last week announced its presence across two new social media platforms — Pinterest and Google+. 

Consumers, industry members and policymakers can now stay up to date on NPA news, events, certification programs and advocacy actions in two new ways, the association stated. “Followers” also will get the latest details about federal and state legislation affecting the natural products industry, as well as news about current research and health trends. 

PHOENIX — Ecosentials on Monday launched Vitamin Squeeze™ Powder Water Enhancers, which is packaged in a squeezable bottle that provides vitamins and customizable flavors. The Vitamin Squeeze Powder Water Enhancers are available in a variety of eight flavors among three supplement products — multi-vitamin, energy and weight control.

WATSONVILLE, Calif. — Nordic Naturals on Tuesday added Vitamin D3 Vegan to its professional product line. The liquid formulation is naturally sourced from lichen and was developed to provide healthcare practitioners with an alternative for their clients who are vegans, strict vegetarians or who prefer a non-lanolin form of vitamin D3. 

LOS ANGELES — Kowa Health Care America recently launched two supplement products into the U.S. marketplace — NutriDiet, a diet aid, and Okinawa Life. 

NutriDiet has been formulated to aid in the digestion of food and absorption of key nutrients necessary for internal balance. The formulation includes probiotics, prebiotics and green tea catechins in an effort to improve overall health. The combination helps to promote intestinal health, while assisting in burning fat to create a healthy weight balance.

NEW YORK — Pfizer on Friday announced that it has completed the sale of its nutrition business to Nestlé for $11.9 billion in cash, following the conclusion of the required regulatory process in most markets. In certain countries where completion will be delayed due to ongoing regulatory review, Pfizer will continue to operate the business on an interim basis.