NutriPhy® Bilberry: A visible difference

NutriPhy® Bilberry is the latest product in the Chr. Hansen NutriPhy range launched last year. NutriPhy® Bilberry contains an extract of bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) in powder form. Bilberry extract contains a high amount of natural antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic acids and anthocyanins. The main health benefit associated with bilberry anthocyanins is eye-health and in Japan the berry is known as the “eye-berry”.

“We are very happy with the new product in our range, and we plan to launch NutriPhy® Bilberry globally but with strong focus on EU and the Asian markets. The dietary supplement market is fast moving and on the look-out for new ideas and ingredients and at the same time maturing in terms of documentation and legislation. We see that as an advantage for us as well as for the global consumers, “ says Sami Sassi, Business Development Manager, Phytonutrients, Chr. Hansen.

The global market for dietary supplements experiences growth rates of 5%, and in some emerging markets in e.g. Eastern Europe growth rates are as high as 17% (Nutrition Business Journal).

Effect and quality

The NutriPhy® Bilberry contains a minimum of 25% anthocyanins specifically measured by HPLC (High Performance Liquid Cromotography). The benefits to eye-health are related to the anthocyanins, which aid in protecting the light sensitive rods present in the retina, called rhodopsin. Balanced rhodopsin levels are imperative to facilitate better vision in dim light.

 “The challenge with bilberries is the availability of the raw material. In Chr. Hansen we source wild European bilberries and produce the product in powder form in our own plant in Northern Italy. We have full traceability in the process and both customers and consumers can rest assured that they get the required level and quality of active ingredients, “ explains Sami Sassi.

Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) have been used against a variety of disorders from diarrhea to improved eye health since ancient times. Bilberries are often confused with cultivated blueberries, but the beneficial profile of bilberries is much stronger.

Nature’s own products

The NutriPhy® range also includes other active ingredients such as different polyphenols and natural carotenoids. Chr. Hansen’s Phytonutrients are products from nature carefully selected for their specific properties to support health and well-being. Phytonutrients are compounds that are linked to a range of beneficial effects on personal comfort. They occur naturally in a large variety of vegetables and fruits.