Activeberry, described as an all-natural, black currant-derived performance ingredient for athletes and consumers with active lifestyles, is being launched by Frutarom.

“With the launch of Activeberry, Frutarom Health strengthen its position in the sport nutrition market, adding to its already substantial portfolio of active, natural ingredients,” said Itay Shafat, PhD, product manager for Frutarom Health.

Frutarom notes that the sports nutrition category showed an impressive increase in launch activity in 2017 with a year-over-year growth of +18% (2017 vs. 2016), according to Innova Market Insights. “Sportification” moves toward the mainstream of food and beverage branding, with a growing number of NPD launches tracked with sport-related claims comprising 25% CAGR from 2013 to 2017. Natural claims experienced strong growth as well, the company points out. Together, new sport-related food and beverage launches tracked with a natural claim rose more than 20% CAGR from 2013 to 2017. Related claims are gaining ground in mainstream food and beverages. Moreover, within sports-related nutrition, “better-for-you” claims (health, clean label, and free-from claims) have increased their market penetration to 49% in 2017, up from 42% in 2013.

Activeberry is produced from blackcurrant, said to be a known source of anthocyanins and antioxidants, as well as other potent bioactive molecules. Using what Frutarom claims is a unique technology that maintains the properties of the natural berry, while at the same time assuring the quality and safety of the product, the ingredient is produced without solvents or other chemicals.

One recent study specifically tested the vasodilation efficacy of blackcurrant produced by this technology compared to the more common ethanol extraction method. In that study, the effect of Activeberry was said to be far superior to that of the ethanol-extracted product, proving the superiority of this proprietary technology.

Blackcurrant has been studied for its effect on people training in various sports, including rowing, cycling, and running. In research studies, blackcurrant was found to increase blood flow, antioxidative status, and improve aerobic performance in addition to other health benefits.

“As the science on Activeberry continues to show promising results, we will carry on research into its exciting possibilities,” said Shafat. “Activeberry can be easily applied to supplements, sport drinks, and nutrition bar formulations.”