Anti-aging polyphenol launched for nutrition and cosmetics

The polyphenol compound is known for its antioxidant properties and the companies claim it has anti-ageing, anti-cancer and cardiovascular protective effects.

Yeast fermentation production The most common form of natural resveratrol on the market is extracted from the skins of grapes, however Fluxome has developed a novel yeast strain that can produce a purer version of the compound, it said.

"Fluxome Sciences' unique approach combining computational and experimental technology platforms, has succeeded in developing a novel, highly productive system for the commercial production of resveratrol that will be well-positioned to meet growing market needs," said CP Kelco director of market development and innovation James Tuan.

The resveratrol will be initially positioned as a nutritional supplement and will be marketed by the Danish company, although moves into the cosmetics and personal care market are planned for early 2009.

As to whether the ingredient will be designed for topical application or for beauty supplements, CP Kelco spokesperson Steve Bodicoat said it was too early to say.

CP Kelco's role is in the commercial scale manufacture of the product, Bodicoat explained.

The novel fermentation method developed by Fluxome will be scaled up by CP Kelco in order to commercially produce the active ingredient which will be available for nutritional supplements later this year.

"The strategic partnership with CP Kelco will greatly accelerate process development and provide manufacturing capabilities and capacity required to launch, and reliably supply the market with a natural, high purity resveratrol ingredient," said Fluxome CEO Steen Anderson.

New applications Atlanta-based CP Kelco recently announced the release of two new ingredients directed at the personal care market and the ultimate aim to market resveratrol for cosmetics use reflects the company's plan to capitalise on this growing market.

At this year's In-Cosmetics in Amsterdam the company released a biodegradable microfibrous cellulose formula called Axcel CG-PX to improve the stability of products, and a pectin based ingredient Genu pHresh DF to moisturise and protect the skin barrier.

During the show Steve Bodicoat explained that the company is expanding its presence in cosmetics because the industry is moving in its direction.

Demand for edible and natural ingredients has skyrocketed in recent years making CP Kelco well placed to respond to the market given its expertise in the development of food ingredients.

Illustrating the point, Bodicoat said in the food sphere the company sold xanthan gum for salad dressing before discovering its beautifying effects and adapting it for the fast growing natural cosmetics market.